Hubbry Logo
Torch (web browser)Torch (web browser)Main
Open search
Torch (web browser)
Community hub
Torch (web browser)
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Torch (web browser)
Torch (web browser)
Torch (web browser)
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Torch
DeveloperTorch Media Inc.
Initial releaseJune 18, 2012 (2012-06-18)
Final release
69.2.0.1713[1] Edit this on Wikidata / 30 September 2020; 5 years ago (30 September 2020)
Operating systemWindows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10[2]
PlatformIA-32
Size82.3 MB
Available inEnglish, French, Spanish, Turkish, Italian, Portuguese, German
TypeWeb browser, BitTorrent client
LicenseFreeware, adware
Websitetorchbrowser.com

Torch was a Chromium-based web browser and Internet suite developed by the North Carolina–based Torch Media.[3] As of November 2022, downloads for Torch are no longer available, and upon clicking the download button, users are redirected to the Torch Search extension on the Chrome Web Store.

The browser handles common Internet-related tasks such as displaying websites, sharing websites via social networks, downloading torrents, accelerating downloads and grabbing online media, all directly from the browser.[4] Torch Browser is commercial freeware.[5]

Torch is based on the Chromium source code[6] and is compatible with all add-ons and extensions available in the Chrome store. On June 18, 2013, Torch announced that it had surpassed ten million active users.[7]

Torrent site The Pirate Bay has run paid endorsements for Torch on their website.[8]

Features

[edit]

The built-in BitTorrent client allows users to download torrent files.[9] Users can directly share sites, videos, audio and search results with their Facebook and Twitter accounts.[10]

On June 18, 2013, Torch announced a major release for Mac and Windows that included an integrated download accelerator. The same release also introduced Torch Music, a free social music discovery service that organizes music videos available on YouTube in a user-friendly interface. Users can easily find and stream music videos, create playlists, and follow their Facebook friends’ musical choices. Torch Music is integrated directly into Torch Browser, which includes an embedded controller to control music from any browser tab.[7]

On July 1, 2013, Torch version 25.0.0.3712 was released. The release included the ability to download Instagram and Vine videos in a single click.[11] Torch's ability to download Instagram videos was featured on CNET's Tekzilla Daily.[12]

On February 26, 2014, Torch version 29.0.0.6508 was released. The release included the ability to customize the look and feel of users' Facebook pages using pre-set themes. Users can customize these themes or create their own. A user's customized page is visible to him/herself and to anyone visiting the original user's page from another Torch browser if the original user allows it.[13]

On May 20, 2014, Torch version 33.0.0.6975 was released. The release updated the Chromium engine used by Torch and introduced an embedded player to stream torrents downloaded before the download is completed.

Reception

[edit]

Reviews of Torch have evolved over time, as the browser continued to add features and functionality. Early versions of the browser have received mixed reviews, with some praising its interesting feature combination while others pointed to the lack of add-on support (an issue which has been resolved in newer versions).[9][6]

In October 2012, The Blog Herald said of Torch: "The Torch Web Browser is built on a lightweight framework that offers what appears to be decent security. If you like to browse the web while grabbing various files this might be the perfect browser for your arsenal of web applications. Overall I have been pleased with the Torch Browser and I only hope it continues to grow so more social sharing features can be experienced and more files can be grabbed."[9]

In reviewing Torch in December 2012, CNET said of Torch 2.0.0.1614: "An all-in-one Web browser is nothing to sneeze at, but Torch Browser isn't going to pry you away from Chrome or Firefox. While it has options that make sharing and social media a breeze, Torch Browser just isn't unique enough to win people's hearts. It lags in performance and its major features aren't worth making the switch...Torch Browser tries to carve out its niche by being an all-in-one Web browser... However, it doesn't do any of those things well enough to replace what you currently use. Once you get over the novelty, it becomes obvious that Torch Browser isn't that powerful as a Web portal. It's noticeably slower than other browsers and it doesn't have the same sort of add-on support. The layout is just a rip-off of the open-canvas setup of other, more popular browsers. None of this is to say that using it is all a bad experience. Torch Browser still runs circles around Internet Explorer and would be a major upgrade there... While not a threat to Firefox or Chrome, Torch Browser is easy enough to use and might just impress Internet Explorer users. Heavy downloaders might enjoy the torrent downloader and media player that come with it, too."[6]

PC Advisor, in an April 2013 review of the newest version, gave Torch 3.5/5 stars and praised it: "This is a great alternative browser that adds some interesting extras on top of the Chrome engine. It’s well worth trying out".[14]

In a March 2015 TechRadar review by Jamie Hinks, the publication called Torch 39 "an excellent alternative for anyone looking to a browser that breaks away from the norm".[15]

Criticism

[edit]

Bundling of unwanted software

[edit]

Torch Media receives payments from companies like Ask.com to bundle potentially unwanted programs with the browser. Users may be asked to install search toolbars or adware programs during installation. These bundled programs commonly do one or more of the following things:

  • Change the user's browser homepage to a page with ads
  • Change the user's default search engine
  • Prevent the user from changing their homepage and default search engine
  • Collect and upload data about the user's internet browsing behavior
  • Add toolbars to the user's browsers
  • Inject advertisements into websites that are visited by the user

While this practice is deemed controversial by some, users are given a chance to opt out of sponsored software and Torch claims to work fine without it.[16]

Torch makes contradictory claims about the software they bundle. Their online troubleshooter claims that "Torch does not install additional toolbars" while at the same time stating that "the Torch installer may include an optional Ask.com toolbar" on another page.[17]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Torch (web browser)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Torch is a Chromium-based and developed by Torch Media Inc., emphasizing integrated tools such as a one-click media grabber for downloading videos and audio from streaming sites, a built-in torrent client for , and an embedded media player for playback during downloads. Released in 2012, it supports Windows and macOS platforms, importing Chrome bookmarks and extensions while providing a familiar interface for users accustomed to . In , Torch was reportedly replaced or integrated with , leading to changes in download availability from the official site. Key features include the Media Grabber, which detects and downloads online videos and audio without additional software; Torch Torrent, an integrated manager for initiating and monitoring torrent downloads directly in the browser; and Download Accelerator, which splits files to increase speed via multiple connections. Additional tools encompass Torch Music, a YouTube-integrated player for creating playlists and streaming unlimited tracks; Torch Games, offering instant access to free browser-based games like puzzles and arcade titles; and Drag & Drop functionality for quick searching, translating, or sharing content by dragging elements to dedicated tiles for services like or . The browser also features Torch Facelift for customizing themes with backgrounds, fonts, and colors, visible among users. By mid-2013, Torch had surpassed 10 million monthly active users across Windows and Mac versions, with updates enhancing its music service to include personalized recommendations based on listening history, location, and social connections. Prior to changes in 2021, the Windows version reached 69.2.0.1713 (September 2025), maintaining compatibility with and later, while the macOS version remained at 29.0.0.7181 (last updated 2024); the browser provided options to clear browsing history in one click.

History

Launch and early development

Torch Media Inc. founded the web browser in , with an initial emphasis on embedding media downloading capabilities directly into a browser built on the open-source platform. This approach aimed to streamline content acquisition for users frequently engaging with online videos, audio, and files, reducing the need for separate tools or extensions. The browser launched on June 18, , as software designed for ease of use in media handling. Key initial features included a one-click media grabber for capturing videos and audio from websites without additional software, alongside integrated torrent support via a built-in client that allowed direct downloads within the browser interface. These elements positioned as a specialized tool for media-centric browsing, compatible with Chrome extensions due to its foundation. Early adoption was rapid, reflecting the appeal of its all-in-one design for media-heavy users. By June 18, 2013—one year after launch—Torch had achieved 10 million monthly active users across Windows and its recently introduced Mac version, marking significant growth in a competitive browser market. This milestone underscored the browser's success in addressing unmet needs for seamless media integration.

Key updates and growth

In June , Torch released a major update for its Windows and Mac versions, introducing an integrated download accelerator to enhance media file retrieval speeds and an updated Torch Music service for discovering and downloading songs directly within the browser. This update coincided with Torch surpassing 10 million monthly active users, marking significant early growth driven by its media-focused features. On July 1, 2013, version 25.0.0.3712 added one-click download support for videos from , allowing users to save content seamlessly during playback. The same release expanded Torch's media grabbing tools for emerging social platforms. In June 2014, with version 29.0.0.7181, Torch introduced customization tools via its FaceLift feature, enabling users to personalize their pages with custom backgrounds, fonts, and colors directly from the browser. This enhancement built on Torch's social integrations, including built-in sharing options for and that allowed quick drag-and-drop posting of links, videos, and search results. Torch continued iterative stable releases through the , reaching version 69.2.0.1713 on September 30, 2020, which maintained compatibility with extensions for added functionality like ad blockers and productivity tools. These updates emphasized performance improvements and broader media support, sustaining user engagement amid competition from mainstream browsers.

Discontinuation

The final stable release of browser was version 69.2.0.1713, issued on September 30, 2020. Following this release, active development and maintenance of the browser ceased, leaving it without subsequent updates for vulnerabilities or compatibility improvements. As of November 2025, downloads remain available from the official website, but the browser is unmaintained and based on version 69 (released in 2018), making it vulnerable to known flaws and incompatible with some modern web features. This has prompted recommendations to switch to supported alternatives such as the for continued media-focused browsing with updated protections.

Features

Core browsing features

Torch, being built on the Chromium open-source project version 69 (from 2018), delivers core browsing functionalities that mirror those of older Google Chrome versions, ensuring a familiar experience for users, though with limitations on modern web compatibility. The interface includes a tabbed browsing system for managing multiple open pages efficiently, an integrated address bar (omnibox) that combines URL entry with search capabilities, and a comprehensive bookmarking tool for saving, organizing, and accessing frequently visited websites via a dedicated bookmarks bar or manager. A key aspect of Torch's is its compatibility with many extensions from the , allowing users to install and manage add-ons for enhanced customization, such as ad blockers or themes, though limited by the browser's outdated engine. Search functionality is seamlessly integrated into the address bar, supporting major providers like for quick queries directly from the browser without needing external tools. Additionally, Torch incorporates session restoration, automatically prompting users to recover previously open tabs following a crash or unexpected closure, minimizing during browsing sessions. Users can customize the homepage and new tab page to display thumbnails or shortcuts to frequently visited sites, streamlining access to preferred content right from startup. This setup, combined with basic download handling enhanced by tools like the media grabber for capturing online files, supports everyday web navigation effectively.

Integrated download tools

Torch's integrated download tools provide users with an enhanced file retrieval experience directly within the browser, eliminating the need for third-party applications. The built-in download accelerator enhances file retrieval speeds from websites by segmenting files into multiple parts and downloading them simultaneously via multiple connections, reportedly achieving faster rates than standard Chromium-based browsers. This accelerator also supports pause and resume functionality, allowing interruptions without loss of progress, which is particularly useful for large files or unstable connections. A key component is the native BitTorrent client, enabling direct handling of torrent files and links without external software. Users can initiate torrent downloads seamlessly from within the browser interface, with management options for seeding, pausing, and monitoring multiple torrents. The client supports bandwidth management through configurable speed limits for both downloads and uploads, helping prioritize torrent activity while minimizing impact on general browsing performance. For standard web files, Torch offers one-click download initiation upon detection of downloadable content on webpages, streamlining the process beyond typical right-click methods. Progress is tracked in a dedicated download panel integrated into the browser window, displaying real-time status, file size, and controls for pausing, resuming, or canceling. These features leverage Torch's Chromium foundation for compatibility with extensions that can further customize download behaviors if needed.

Media and social integrations

Torch's Media Grabber is intended to enable users to download videos and audio from streaming websites, including , using a single-click process that integrates directly into the browser without requiring external tools, converters, or extensions, though functionality is limited on modern sites due to the outdated . The tool captures media as it plays, saving audio files separately in format and videos in supported types such as FLV, MP4, and MOV, with the option to select from available formats when multiple variants exist. In , the Media Grabber gained support for extracting videos from , allowing users to initiate playback on the site and then download the content via the browser's interface, but current functionality on Instagram is unreliable due to platform changes. Torch Music provides an embedded streaming service that pulls music videos from for playback within the browser, supporting searches for individual tracks, full albums, and , though playback may be limited on modern YouTube content due to the browser's age. Users can create and manage custom playlists, save favorites, and utilize an auto-generation tool called "Wiz" to build collections based on preferences, all while maintaining seamless browsing. The browser incorporates dedicated sharing buttons for integration, originally permitting direct posting of webpages, images, videos, songs, or search results to and from any tab or the , but compatibility with current platforms is limited due to changes. This feature streamlines connectivity by allowing users to share content without switching applications or copying links.

Technical aspects

Browser engine

Torch is built upon the open-source project, leveraging the Blink layout engine to handle the rendering of web pages, including robust support for and CSS3 standards. This foundation ensures compatibility with modern web technologies, allowing Torch to parse and display complex layouts efficiently while maintaining adherence to web standards originally derived from . The browser incorporates the V8 JavaScript engine, also from Chromium, which enables fast and optimized execution of JavaScript code, contributing to responsive performance on dynamic web applications. Blink's design provides seamless integration with V8, supporting advanced features like hardware-accelerated rendering and compatibility with WebKit-based standards for consistent cross-browser behavior. Additionally, Torch includes support for contemporary web APIs, such as WebRTC for real-time communication, inherited directly from its Chromium base. Torch maintained version synchronization with releases through its final update in September 2020, aligning with Chromium 69, after which development ceased. As of that point, Torch no longer receives patches or updates, potentially exposing users to vulnerabilities in modern web environments. Distributed as commercial , the browser incorporates elements often bundled during installation, though its core engine remains unmodified from the upstream codebase to preserve rendering fidelity and updates up to that point.

System requirements

Torch Browser is compatible with Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later), Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10, exclusively supporting the 32-bit IA-32 architecture, which functions on both 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. The minimum hardware requirements consist of a 1 GHz processor, 128 MB of RAM (with 1 GB recommended for optimal performance), and 100 MB of free disk space for installation. Language support includes English, French, Spanish, Turkish, Italian, , and German. While early versions offered compatibility with macOS, official support for that platform ended after initial releases, rendering Torch Windows-exclusive by 2020 with no support for mobile operating systems. These requirements stem from its foundation on the engine, ensuring compatibility with standard web standards while prioritizing lightweight media handling.

Reception and criticism

Positive reception

Torch Browser received positive feedback for its innovative integration of media handling and download tools directly into the browsing experience, setting it apart from standard Chromium-based browsers. In a 2013 TechCrunch report, the browser achieved 10 million monthly active users shortly after launch, with the publication attributing this rapid growth to its unique features that addressed common user needs for easier media and torrent management not readily available in competitors like Chrome or Firefox. Reviewers praised the intuitive media grabber, which allows one-click downloads of online videos and audio without requiring third-party extensions, making it particularly appealing for content creators and heavy media consumers. A review highlighted this functionality alongside the built-in torrent client, noting the all-in-one convenience that combines browsing, downloading, and social sharing in a seamless package built on the reliable engine. Similarly, commended Torch as a unique option for users focused on streaming and media capture, emphasizing the media grabber's ability to identify and download content directly from web pages (as of ). Users echoed these sentiments, acclaiming the browser's ease of use for seamless media downloading and torrent integration, especially beneficial for content creators who valued the lack of need for additional extensions. On , Torch received positive user feedback for its media handling efficiency. Positive reception has largely been from the 2012-2015 period, with limited recent endorsements following the browser's discontinuation.

General criticisms

Torch has faced criticism for its performance, often described as slower than standard Chromium-based browsers like due to the overhead from its integrated media and download tools. Reviewers have noted that these additional features, while convenient for multimedia tasks, introduce noticeable lags in page loading and overall responsiveness compared to lighter alternatives. For instance, independent comparisons highlight that Torch's built-in torrent client and media grabber contribute to reduced speed during intensive operations. The browser's interface has also drawn complaints for clutter, with always-visible panels for downloads, social sharing buttons, and sidebars for music and games overwhelming users seeking a minimalist experience. These elements, installed as default extensions, can make feel outdated and less intuitive, particularly for those accustomed to streamlined designs in competitors. Stability issues further compound concerns, as opening integrated tools like the torrent manager or music player has been reported to cause crashes in testing. Torch's update cadence has been a significant point of contention, with releases becoming infrequent after and the last version (69.2.0.1713) issued in September 2020. Official downloads were discontinued in November 2022, leaving the browser vulnerable to unpatched issues inherited from its base. This lag in adopting Chromium's fixes has been flagged in comparisons as a reliability , especially as newer threats emerged in subsequent years. The discontinuation of active development has amplified these problems, rendering existing installations increasingly outdated without official support as of 2025, and experts recommend against new use due to elevated risks. Reviews of resource consumption are mixed, but many point to higher RAM usage during torrent downloads, where the integrated client demands more memory than dedicated third-party applications. This elevated usage can strain lower-end systems, particularly when multitasking, though it performs adequately for lighter browsing.

Software bundling controversies

Torch browser's installation process has drawn significant criticism for bundling potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), such as the Ask.com toolbar and other adware, which are included by default during setup. This practice, common in freeware distributions from sites like Softonic and CNET, often hides additional software installations behind pre-checked options in the installer, leading to accidental deployment without explicit user consent. Users frequently report that Torch sets itself as the default browser and alters search settings to affiliate sites like search.ask.com, exacerbating the issue. Opt-out mechanisms exist within custom installation screens, but they are often obscured or overlooked, contributing to widespread user complaints about unintended software additions from 2012 onward. Security analyses highlight that bundled extensions, such as those from Conduit or Yontoo, can redirect searches and display intrusive ads, prompting recommendations for manual removal via control panels and browser settings. These tactics have been linked to the same developers behind other controversial tools like iLivid and jZip, amplifying concerns over deceptive distribution methods. Privacy implications arise from the bundled software's ability to track user behaviors, including URLs visited, IP addresses, search queries, and , as outlined in Torch's policies. Reviews from 2012 to 2015 criticized this monitoring for enabling without adequate transparency, potentially compromising user . The installer's association with has led to reputational damage, with antivirus tools like and Ad-Aware flagging Torch downloads as risky PUPs and advising scans post-installation.

References

  1. https://torchbrowser.com/
  2. https://download.cnet.com/torch-browser/3000-windows-torch.html
  3. https://www.reddit.com/r/browsers/comments/ph9bok/torch_browser_no_longer_exist/
  4. https://torchbrowser.com/tour
  5. https://techcrunch.com/2013/06/18/torch-browser-passes-10-million-monthly-active-users-adds-download-accelerator-updates-torch-music-service/
  6. https://torch.en.softonic.com/
  7. https://mac.filehorse.com/download-torch-browser/
  8. https://siliconpin.com/topics/chromium-based-browsers-torch
  9. https://www.ghacks.net/2013/07/01/download-instagram-videos-with-torch-browser/
  10. https://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/how-to-download-instagram-videos-to-your-pc-using-torch-browser/
  11. https://news.filehippo.com/2014/06/download-latest-version-torch-browser/
  12. https://torch.updatestar.com/en
  13. https://filehippo.com/download_torch-browser/history/
  14. https://ccm.net/downloads/internet/6879-torch-browser/
  15. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/3721287/troubles-with-google-torch-browser
  16. https://torchbrowser.com/about
  17. https://www.torchbrowser.com/tour
  18. https://www.pctricksguru.com/2014/04/torch-browser-best-browser.html
  19. http://www.torchbrowser.com/faq
  20. https://filehippo.com/download_torch-browser/
  21. https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5520-torch-browser.html
  22. https://www.cnet.com/videos/download-instagram-videos/
  23. https://www.filehorse.com/download-torch-browser/
  24. https://www.chromium.org/blink/
  25. https://www.pcrisk.com/removal-guides/9112-torch-browser
  26. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/678525/torch-browser-malware/
  27. https://download.cnet.com/torch-browser/3000-2356_4-75740051.html
  28. https://torch-browser.en.softonic.com/mac
  29. https://uk.pcmag.com/browsers/88548/8-unique-web-browsers-to-try
  30. https://www.slant.co/versus/3731/5225/~torch-browser_vs_google-chrome
  31. https://torch.en.download.it/
  32. https://www.2-spyware.com/remove-torch-browser.html
  33. https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/news/2012/12/misleading-advertising
  34. https://secure.lavasoft.com/mylavasoft/company/blog/how-to-remove-torch-web-browser
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.