One could argue that the web browser is the single most important software on most modern devices. Let’s face it, modern web browsers are pretty amazing at their job. Better yet, no matter who you are and what you do, there’s a web browser for everyone out there.
Despite everything said, there’s one area where most browsers, including the most popular ones, fall a bit short. I’m talking, of course, about something called multi-account sing-in. In short, dealing with multiple accounts of the same type usually requires a user to either switch browsers or switch profiles.
That’s one reason why Wavebox exists. What exactly is Wavebox? In short, it’s one of the few so-called productivity web browsers.
At its core, Wavebox is a Chromium-based browser. The fact that the app also works on all major desktop platforms is also a plus (available for macOS, Linux, and Windows).
However, what makes it “special” when compared to most other typical browsers is the fact that it’s packed/filled to the brim with features, and I really do mean that.
Calling Wavebox a powerhouse in terms of productivity is not an exaggeration. Besides the identity-defining support for multi-account sign-in, the browser also features workspaces, groups, pins, tab sleeping, screen sharing, built-in chat, focus mode, widget support, smart notes, and a few other nifty features.
Another noteworthy aspect that recommends Wavebox as an awesome productivity tool (especially in today’s world) is the built-in AI assistant. More to the point, Wavebox employs the services of OpenAI assistant (Brainbox) and ResembleAI.
Before I move on, it’s worth noting that a lot of these really good productivity features is locked behind a payment “wall,” but more on that a bit later.
I will be completely honest and say that I’m not a long-term Wavebox user. In fact, I just recently tried it out and there’s no getting around the fact that there’s a lot going on.
For a first-time user, things can be a bit difficult. This is definitely a browser that has a bit of a learning curve, but considering the amount of “stuff” packed into it, it’s somewhat understandable.
Nevertheless, here’s how you get started with Wavebox. You’ll first need to create a Wavebox account from scratch or use any existing Google or Microsoft accounts. Follow through by taking a quick tour of the app’s features (upon first launching the app, you’ll be prompted by a Pop-up tour).
From this point, I found that the best way to get started is to create a few spaces (i.e. work, home, personal business), add webmails (assign an address for each space to stay signed in), explore and add a few apps, and that’s about it (for starters, at least).
Upon first time launching Wavebox, you’re granted a 7-day trial period for free. In my opinion, 7 days is enough time to get to grips with the app and start using it at its full potential.
After the 7-day free trial (of the Pro version) ends, you can either continue to use Wavebox for free with 2 Gmail accounts or opt to subscribe (either monthly or annually) to keep the Pro features.
The Free version provides unlimited spaces and dashboards, and can be used on any number of computers simultaneously but heavily limits the number of usable apps to six, and the number of extensions to just one.
The Pro version is definitely the one to have if you want maximum productivity. With the Pro version, you get unlimited spaces and apps, unlimited dashboards, all extensions, and cloud synchronization.
There’s really no denying the power of Wavebox. Once you spend a bit of time with the app and figure out all the bits and bobs, you can potentially become more organized and, ultimately, more productive. I also enjoyed just how customizable the browser is, and I’m mostly referring to the workspaces which can have custom colors and layouts.
The fact that the browser fully supports all Google Chrome extensions (from the Chrome Web Store) is also a big plus. In short, there’s a lot to love about this browser.
However, it’s not perfect. As a Linux user, I appreciate the fact that this browser comes with bespoke binaries for a wide range of Linux distros (including an AUR PPA).
At the end of the day, this is not an open-source app. It’s also a paid app. And I think this goes without saying that this is by no means a lightweight application. The Free version is “OK” for demonstration purposes, but I don’t think that a busy professional or a social media manager can fare well without opting for the Pro version.
I wouldn’t go as far as saying that the monetization strategy is a bit questionable, but having everything downgraded after the 7-day trial period just feels bad.
With all said and done, Wavebox is without a doubt one of the best “work” or “productivity” browsers out there. It might take a bit of figuring out at first, and it might require a bit of financial investment in the long run, but I think that it might be worth it for those few, niche representatives.
