Someone reviewed v on Jul 5, 2022

Pros: 555

Cons: 555

Bottom Line: 555

yanike reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5001.7.1 on Jun 1, 2006

I don't know what it is, but I recently just tried AOL again today(June 17th 2006). It seems to be running just fine now. Plus! AIM Pro is awesome. AOL seems to be getting it now. Good Job AOL :)

cantdrive55 reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5001.7.1 on May 20, 2006

when i first downloaded AOL explorer i really liked it, the themes are cool, the favorites bar, and i like the thumbnail previews pretty well. But next thing I know my computer was freezing up and doing weird stuff. I don't know the lingo that well, but it was starting to leave little bits and pieces of other windows stuck on my screen after closing out a window (or program). It started going real, real slow and my applications were "not responding" and I couldn't even fix it with alt/control/delete. I cleaned my cache, did the defrag, and deleted temp files; everything I could think of to speed up my computer (which is generally pretty fast); i've got 714mb ram and 1.86 gb processor (i know, it could be faster, but it's not too bad) and I have some good anti-spyware and anti-virus programs keeping my 'puter clean of bugs (hopefully). But nevertheless, I HAD to do a SYSTEM RESTORE finally to make my computer act good again. In the future, I'll know to do a sys restore "before" downloading something like this again. But who'd a thought a browser could cause these kind of problems? I downloaded the AOL explore once again, brave huh, and now it won't let me sign in, or use my themes, tools, faves, etc. I'm lost as what to do. I guess I'll stick with my regular AOL Security 9.0 that i was very happy with anyway. I do believe AOL has changed for the better, so I'm giving them another try; I just can't figure out the A-explorer???

twocents reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on May 7, 2006

First off, AOL deserves every bit of bashing they get on these reviews. They've earned it. They've earned it as much as any company ever has.

Like alot of companies out there, they are also learning NOT to screw around with a user's computer. Other companies like Sony and the DRM/Rootkit crap they pulled will also learn that a computer system belongs to the end-user. Getting sued by individuals as well as nations will eventually make these arrogant and greedy companies a little more respectful of the clients they are supposedly serving.

I'm as big an AOL basher as there is - not because of the company but as a result of the number of systems I have needed to fix over the last 15 years - because of their total disregard for someone else's property.

It was with a great deal of reluctance that I installed AOL Triton (Messenger) and AOL Explorer (their Browser).

The installation was clear and open. Much to my surprise, it was fair and unlike earlier AOL installs that tried to hide 3rd party application installs, everything was out in the open. They asked questions like:

A. Do you want the AOL Toolbar on IE
B. Do you want to make AOL Explorer the default browser
etc...

AOL would NOT - I repeat... would NOT have done that a couple of years ago.

Evaluating both the Browser installation PLUS AOL's reputation during this process - I'd have to say that they both passed with flying colors!

I hope AOL continues to respect user rights and that many other companies follow suite.

The Browser itself is exceptional and this evaluation is coming from someone with a great deal of distrust for AOL.

One of AOL's past strength has been in the area of usability. They have always shined in this very important area.

In fact and despite their past transgressions, usability and now integration to their other services is about as well done as I've seen on any browser. Kudos to AOL for pushing browser standards forward and giving users the feel of a desktop application (FAT Client) in a Browser interface.

For users out their still leery of AOL's past, maybe it's time to give them another shot - I did...

If using IE 6's rendering engine still concerns you from a security prespective - do look into Netscape, Opera and Firefox.

Netscape can toggle between rendering pages using Firefox's engine (Gecko) and also does a great job of "skinning" the interface toward an enhance user experience. My hat goes off to them also.

Opera uses it's own rendering engine and has been, imho, the browser interface leader and it's main innovator for many years. To Opera... users and browser developers have noticed what you've done over the last nearly 10 years - you can see the influence on these new browsers skins.

Firefox, while lacking in a default esthetically pleasing color scheme (yeah - it's butt ugly), does a good job on security issues. Sad to say, this should be one of the most impotant criteria for selecting a browser and should be seriously considered (along with Opera) in ANY environment where security is a concern.

I hope AOL continues to further improve the remarkable browser thay have put together and eventually add the same type of toggle switch Netscape has incorporated into their technology (Firefox/IE). I would certainly use AOL much more often if it used the Gecko Engine (or even licensed the Opera Engine - as does Macromedia's Dreamweaver).

riceboy reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on Apr 25, 2006

Bloated as heck....AOL never gets it right. Adds all this extra stuff in the background..sheesh

markus10018 reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on Apr 25, 2006

Could have been interesting without the massive AOL branding. With Firefox and Opera out there and IE 7 lurking around the corner I see no reason why I should use it.

Kompressor reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on Apr 24, 2006

I had a perfect running system until I installed this software, now I have things crashing left and right.

minklein reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on Apr 24, 2006

Yep, I like to get Email from the browser too. No button Sucks. So far they have not put one in IE7 either.

some guy reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.6 Beta on Apr 24, 2006

I give it 1 just because AOL is about as good as MSN LOL

yanike reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.5.1 on Apr 18, 2006

(Flash Problem Found) Do to Microsoft losing legal battle most Flash, Real, Quicktime and other documents will have a block screen. Now it's up to the developers to do the work around code.

Still I rate this 3 because it doesn't have a Mail button for Email Client Software you use as a default program and you can only search with AOL in the search bar.

AOL Users: 5 rating
Open Source Users: 3 rating

Memory hug, but fast browser!
All in all, This product is a great browser, but mostly designed for AOL users.

joeshmoe7 reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.5.1 on Mar 28, 2006

Nice looking, loads pages well, easy to use, but...

-4 points for being from AOL... out of principle.

You don't know how many times i hear from customers, what a nightmare they went through to try and cancel their AOL service. Yep, their still pulling that crap on people to this day, at least where i am. They have no shame.

Tokar reviewed v1.5 Build 1.5000.5.1 on Mar 28, 2006

yanike: what do you want? This ain't softpedia. Betanews uses outdated thumbnails as screenshots for listed software. That screenshot looks like version 1.0 or 1.1, which are technically the same. Version 1.2 and 1.5 look alike...I think the Softpedia screenshots are of version 1.2, but are more accurate than the junk that Betanews shows due to the similarities between 1.2 and 1.5.

TomA102210 reviewed v1.5 Build 1.22.5.1 Beta on Mar 23, 2006

Me thinks riceboy needs to do some basic maintenance on his computer if he is saying it is slow. Defrag, clear cache and a few other things would be appropriate.

crashoverride reviewed v1.5 Build 1.22.5.1 Beta on Mar 23, 2006

As much as I don't like AOL, if I were to use an IE based browser this would be the one. It loads up fast and renders pages rather quickly. Has a easy to use and clean interface. It also has several useful features.

Drich reviewed v1.5 Build 1.22.5.1 Beta on Mar 22, 2006

It keeps getting better. It's my choice when using an IE based browser. Has a bunch of features that are not seen in IE, plus has a sleek, clean & easy to navigate controls. Still Opera is my first choice.

riceboy reviewed v1.5 Build 1.22.5.1 Beta on Mar 22, 2006

Slow and bloated as ever...adds a bunch of stuff you don't need. Remember when AOL took over Netscape?? A good browser gone to the dogs.

yanike reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 19, 2006

Note: Update the screenshot! That's not AOL Explorer 1.5

Great browser! Especially if you're a AOL Subscriber using it with AOL Suite.

Themes are ok but need fixing.

One thing that AOL needs to focus on is AOL 10!

Explorer is great but why should AOL members keep paying for features what regular internet users use for free? I'm glad I decided to try AOL again with a free trial!

Kylde reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 19, 2006

why can't I download a standalone installer, I never feel in control with web installers :(

verdegal37 reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

De momento fantastico algun que otro problema , pero muy bien.
Que sigan en esta linea
Bravo por aol

RoSmecher reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

good browser but kinda slow, also when i clicked to download this it downloaded version 1.2 for me not 1.5 beta like it says.
where can i get 1.5 from ?

Tokar reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

Gotta wait literally 5 seconds for the preview-image-over-links to show up...kinda long!

No interface improvements over 1.2 versions.
Still experiences the same problems as 1.2 had with Windows Explorer Large/Extra Large fonts.

bry reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

You have to give it to AOExplorer for making a fine GUI/stable IE Shell. That new feature of previewing links with a thumbnail, you haven't seen Safari Firefox or anything you want to compare it with have those features yet. Tab thumbnails were copied to one of the more popular browsers after AOL Explorer. You don't have to convert to it, but you will once you give it a REAL GO.

ModderXManiac reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

I concur, also I'd like to add that the performance increases leave more to be desired.

The new level of customizability is like-able; the widgets are nice, but I don't use them much, nevertheless a good feat to those that do. I wish there was a way to make your own skins and they could have a community to share them.

Also being able to change the default search site would be nice, I KNOW they can add more options than they have...

Soozy reviewed v1.5 Beta on Mar 7, 2006

The new version # 1.12.16.1 is working great. I love being able to create desktop widgets and the new skins are fun, but we need more of them.

shagger1 reviewed v1.2.12.1 on Mar 5, 2006

Ok browser but dont like the animated menu effects.The 400kb download is not the browser but something that connects to thier server to download the browser which is 8megs or so.what I did not like is in the agreement:They have the right to update the software as they want without your approval as well as access to the websites you have visited-that I dont like.Uninstall left all kinds of stuff scattered all over the place-cleaned it out and used a restore point.Try this as it does not suck but make a restore point first.

verdegal37 reviewed v1.2.12.1 on Jan 22, 2006

Simplemente fenomenal muy recomendable
Un 10 para AOL

Tokar reviewed v1.2.12.1 on Jan 16, 2006

GoldMaster build!

Onto AOL Explorer 1.3!

ModderXManiac reviewed v1.2.12.1 on Jan 12, 2006

Finally! AOL has made a program I like!

No bloat, very few bugs, excellent!

The only thing, the tabs interface looks stolen from Opera, but since Opera is now freeware I guess it wouldn't matter...

Drich reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Jan 1, 2006

I have used probably every browser out there. Long time Opera browser user and reluctantly decided to try this. Wow! I was impressed. This is a fantastic browser. IMO its the best IE type out there. It has a clean interface and extremely fast with lots of goodies to boot. This is now my default browser. Good job AOL. Keep it up.

yanike reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Dec 26, 2005

1.2.5.15 is out now and it's the best out today! If you're like me and you keep bouncing from browser to browser. Try this one out!!! The only thing I hate is that it opens a new window when you open links from other apps. If they fix this, it'll still be the best but better!

RoSmecher reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Dec 24, 2005

This browser is awesome, and is pretty much the best thing I have ever seen from AOL. No real problems, only thing I can complain about is that it takes more system resources then Maxthon. I don’t know why people give it a low rating though, I guess just because it is AOL they automatically rank it bad which doesn’t do justice and shows how little people know about software. The interface on this puppy is pretty sweet and since it is in beta that means the final version will only get better. Two thumbs up to AOL :)

Tokar reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Dec 22, 2005

Another 1 day release...nice.

eclipsingdivinity:
Just a quick comparison:
IE6: 1 window open to betanews:
Phys: 52,588KB, Virt: 42,348KB

AE1.2: 1 tab open to betanews
aexplore.exe: Phys: 21,212KB, Virt: 26,292
aolsoftware.exe: Phys: 6,548KB, Virt: 8,712KB

I dont know...I think AOL has done a good job in cutting back on the early problems of resource hogging of this browser in 1.0/1.1 version stages.

Its really fast...it does a lot of things faster than IE6. The browser seems very smooth.

war593122: you could say the same thing about every IE based browser.
When IE7 comes out in final they will have to modify their code to fully support it...so its not like they don't acknowledge it. They knew about IE7beta1...and Im sure they tested it (legally or not :)).

eclipsingdivinity reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Dec 22, 2005

It's slick and n00b friendly. But resource hungry like Triton. If they can slim things down a bit, I may actually grab this browser, and possibly the new IM client/whatever.

war593122 reviewed v1.2.12.1 Beta on Dec 22, 2005

They should have waited till IE 7. ;) lol

Tokar reviewed v1.2.11.1 Beta on Dec 20, 2005

1 day since the last update...that was pretty quick...

TomA102210 reviewed v1.2.9.1 Beta on Dec 19, 2005

"Yet another IE based browser that falls flat on its face. I do like the pretty skin it has though."
--------------------------------------------------
Pray tell, how does this browser fall flat on its face.Bring some substance to your words. Rating your post a zero for lack of the substance.

crashoverride reviewed v1.2.9.1 Beta on Dec 16, 2005

Yet another IE based browser that falls flat on its face. I do like the pretty skin it has though. I think I'll be sticking with Firefox though.

-Viper- reviewed v1.2.5.13 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

I'd love to be able to try this program out. I currently use mozilla suit and have had just about enough. However I hate these type of installs, the file doesn't install it it connects to Aol to download the install files. My college network wont let it through cause I can't configure ports on that type of install.

SuzzyWoozy reviewed v1.2.5.13 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Having tried (almost) all kind of browsers and liked the most Maxthon (light and fast)

I've tried today this one; first impression:
- really nice interface (I was impressed to be honest)
- really slow interface (amazing how slow runs on IBM Thinkpad T42, Centrino 1.6GHz, 512MB)
- extermelly high memory usage: 50MB + 7MB the annoying "companion" program (which in my opinion is a shameless spyware, which in addition does not close along with the explorer; on the other hand the explorer does not start without it)

Another think I didn't like is why this software does not install himself in standard folder (i.e. Program Files\AOL) but hides himself in C:\Program Files\Common Files\AOL\...
Have uninstalled, and it comes with no surprise to see that it "forgot" to delete some files...

I must tell that I'm really offended when programs do stuff like these behind by back and does not have the good sense to leave cleanly at the end.

P.S. During the installation Kaspersky 2006 tried to block it cause it was detecting a "hidden installer" (message which I have ignored cause I really want to evaluate this)

Your call tough... I'll stick with Maxthon.

Tokar reviewed v1.2.5.13 Beta on Nov 18, 2005

AOLsuck ASS: wow you are pretty stupid.

If they really did that do you think the overall rating would be below 4? Yeah, I didn't think so either.

Just go here you dope:
http://fileforum.betanew...eview/1107803894/1/view
Thats the history of AOL Explorer ratings...
I count:
10 ratings of 1/5
6 ratings of 2/5
17 ratings of 3/5
12 ratings of 4/5
29 ratings of 5/5 (including this one)

Looks to me like there are a lot of bad reviews on that list there.

I think you should become a little more INFORMED before you post reviews.
I think you should also try the software before you review.
And for some dumb reason while your name is "AOLsuck ASS" you still managed to give a rating of 5/5. Talk about idiocy.

This is one of the best browsers available.
They finally built in support for Windows Font sizes (Normal/Large/Extra Large...accessed in the Display Properties). A lot of things related to that need to be worked out...but it is a step in the right direction.

AOLsuck ASS reviewed v1.2.5.13 Beta on Nov 18, 2005

fileforum.betanews removes any/all negative AOL comments, notice only postive reviews on all AOL products...hmmm...while you think about exactly why they do that fileforum is lubing up for another pounding by AOL :) so enjoy all these "high rated" AOL products ;)

Tokar reviewed v1.2.3.7 Beta on Oct 30, 2005

If you are a mac user and enjoy the eXpose feature then you will love this browser now.

The mosaic feature is by far the most original idea in a browser and makes this an amazing product.

This browser keeps getting better and more original.

yanike reviewed v1.2.3.7 Beta on Oct 29, 2005

This browser is by far first-class. Firefox to me is not so great. A browser that doesn't support everything to me gets a "0" in my book. I.E. is going to be better than it always. It's Microsofts system! AOL Explorer is a great alternative browser for IE. Opera is the fastest browser I ever used but sucks when it comes to plugins and Windows system utilities. Maxthon is OK, but Avant has it with the float bar plugin(Which every browser should have!). AOL has done it again with this browser and the AIM. High 5 rating for the sovereign company.

eclipsingdivinity reviewed v1.2.2.10 Beta on Oct 13, 2005

It's a beautiful browser to stick on the machine of someone who is new to well...a computer! I actually found this 'shell' very elegant and it does a fair job of competing with Firefox in features. A good replacement for IE, but not Firefox.

And for those complaining about memory issues, I agree and disagree about a few things. One, I disagree that it uses 'too much' memory, because from what Firefox 1.5 beta 2 spurts out (40-60 megs on average) the AOL host services equal out to roughly that number if not less. But the main reason why this is still getting a 3 and the overall reason why i'm not using this program is the fact that after I close the browser down, some of the host processes are still running. Not proper if you ask me.

Tokar reviewed v1.2.2.10 Beta on Oct 13, 2005

They have at least removed a couple services...

I think this is due to all the new AOL Software shifting to new services...

it used to be AOLServiceHost.exe and AOLHostsManager.exe or something like that.
Now its just one services, AOLsoftware.exe...it takes up about 5MB phys, and 10MB virtual. Thats a little larger than the former...from version 1.1 and earlier.

They have really improved the browser a lot since v1.1 (just try CTRL-F on any page...its now a toolbar which pops down. i think they used my suggestion on this :)).
On my machine though...wooo boy. I was getting memory usage of like 60MB physical, 50MB virtual...and it was running really slow. Initial load counts are about 28MB physical, and 26.5MB virtual.

Its a hefty toll on the RAM...

DigitalSin reviewed v1.2.2.10 Beta on Oct 13, 2005

It's a good quality browser in my opinion - it has some good potential.

However, I absolutely HATE the services it installs and keeps active on my machine. This is makes it bloated and is not required to browse the web.

twosheds reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 5, 2005

Hampered only by the bad AOL reputation and the fcat that it uses a 'host' process that stays active, this really is a nice browser.

Phosphoros reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 4, 2005

Let me preface this by saying I'm an avid Firefix user.
I've got to say that even for AOL this is some good work. Still a couple of little bugs here and there (after trying it for a couple hours).
The interface is slick, the pop-up blocker is pretty handy and most importantly... it's fast.
I'm impressed overall.
I gave it a 4 rating because it is a beta after all and it does have a couple annoyances.
Still, it's a nice little browser and worth a download.

Neoprimal reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 4, 2005

I'm really surprised at the quality of this product. IE: it's actually a very nice browser. The tabs are non intrustive and you hit a little + to the left to get another tab. You can set new windows to open in tabs, instead of new windows. XML feeds are easily added by clicking the 'detected' feed button which appears right in the search bar when you surf to a site with XML feeds. The browser is aesthetically pleasing and very 'lite' to the look, but 'heavy' on the features. No doubt people will complain that it uses the servicehost files, popular since AOL 9, but it's not a big deal since it actually measures out at around the same mem usage when using multiple IE windows or Maxthon and Firefox tabs.
I don't like that it's bundled with AOL's spyware Zapper, but I'm also not gonna complain since it does have use against lite threats.
I recommend this browser.

Mike162005 reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 4, 2005

Great review Tokar!

I think right now they are focusing more on the desktop search.

Anyways, everything seems to be good as always. =)

Tokar reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 4, 2005

Is this the IE7 review section? Um, no.
Thats available over at SoftPedia:
http://www.softpedia.com...ternet-Explorer-7.shtml

Is this the Netscape 8 review section? Um, no.

Netscape 8 is just FIREFOX with a Netscape skin...thats it. Why would AOL Explorer or IE7 want to be Netscape 8 when its a completely different engine?
Quit your FireFox trolling. You have contributed nothing to this review section. You said that one should try the program before trying it. DID YOU EVEN TRY AOL EXPLORER OR IE7? I doubt it.
Why should we be trying out Netscape in a REVIEW OF AOL EXPLORER?

Say what you want about IE7 and AOL Explorer, but im sure more people know and want them more than Netscape 8.

--------------------------

Anyway. Looks like some more hidden bugfixes.
I dont see much new, but its good to know that AOL Explorer is actively developed.
AOL Explorer with AOL Desktop Search build 1044a is available now as well.

DACWILSOL reviewed v1.1.4234.1043b Beta on Aug 4, 2005

Netscape 8 is the better browser. IE7 wants to be Netscape 8. AOL Browser wants to be Netscape 8. Try it out and you will definitely see, that Netscape 8 is fast and customizable. Very secure and very stable. Load time is off a little, but once you have it going, your surfing is very optimized. Try it before you rate it. Customize it before you rate it. IE7 won't even let you access your Yahoo mail. Nescape 8 lets you and even allows you to add yoyr own favorite search engine. Give Netscape a try, then AOL browser and make your choice.

Nikkie reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 27, 2005

Works Fine ...

I use firefox but i put this browser on my moms pc and it runs fine . no problems at all ..

IGNORE AOL BASHERS !!

trust me , they are lower than scum under your shoe and they are just being trendy ...

AOL BASHING = THE NEW KOOL !!

l33t yo . w3rd.

aburton261 reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 27, 2005

This browser make me fall in love with tabs. i like it alot better than firefox.
BLOAT LOL you people are so freaking funny, 8 meg browser and you call this bloat. As for the processes yes it's there but if you have the right amount of ram installed on your system it shouldn't matter and quite thinking AOL is spying on you people. You people who worry about AOL spying on you make me laugh. So what if they were LOL you must be doing something really illegal to feel so strongly about it .I would be more worried about the whacker trying to steal your personal info and spoofing web sites.

iamtux reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

I give it a 3 for effort, it was okay when I first used it. im beginning to wonder if rpavl even tests the software he writes bad reviews about... he obviously hasn't used Firefox b/c he talks about how BAD it is when its actually one of the best browsers out there... millions of users couldn't be wrong.

twosheds reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

Nice browser. Pity it leaves a 'host' app process running after you quit it(and in fact, tries to launch it as a process every start-up). If it weren't for that I'd have kept using it for my IE needs. Now use Maxthon instead, which is even faster and lets you switch between IE and Gecko rendering engines a la Netscape (but without the night mare that is Netscape!).

rpavl reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

More aol BLOAT. These products are for newbies and imagery freaks. Its still an AOL product, but no worse than Firefox I guess.

Neoprimal reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

The program runs lightening fast on my machine. And while it does utilize the use of the aolhostloader, etc. - if you add it up, it uses no more RAM than firefox or IE. If you take away the AOL 'stigma' it's a very good browser. Dare I say, up there with Firefox.

Mike162005 reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

From Tokar:
"So im guessing you guys are using, what, a pentium II with 128MB of RAM?

Thats what I thought.

THis browser is quite fast when running it on your standard computer of today (that being Pentium 4 or Athlon XP). And with todays standards in RAM (512MB-1024MB) i really dont think AOL Explorer is eating up that much memory. You can kill the processes with no harm done to the browser, you know. Its not like you are running the browser 24/7 anyway."

I have 1.2GHz (Celeron III!) 512MB RAM and I have NO problems with speed with AOL Explorer nor all the other AOL betas. People need to get over there lil AOL grudge and move on in life. And who said we don't use our browser 24/7. :-P

Tokar reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

So im guessing you guys are using, what, a pentium II with 128MB of RAM?

Thats what I thought.

THis browser is quite fast when running it on your standard computer of today (that being Pentium 4 or Athlon XP). And with todays standards in RAM (512MB-1024MB) i really dont think AOL Explorer is eating up that much memory. You can kill the processes with no harm done to the browser, you know. Its not like you are running the browser 24/7 anyway.

ModderXManiac reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

Bloated, and a product of a monopolizing company.

And I've found a fair amount of bugs.

when it requires to run 3 processes and eats THIS MUCH RAM, and is just plain slow(not in rendering terms), it deserves a 1.

Metshrine reviewed v1.1.4234.1039b Beta on Jul 26, 2005

Said it before, and I'll say it again. Any browser that requires 30MB of ram for 3 services (2 aol hosts, and another aol process, i forget the name, and will update this post when I get off work today) to be running even when the browser is not, is uncalled for. No browser should require services to run. IE Doesnt, opera doesnt, firefox doesnt. So why would I want 30MB of my ram eaten with absolutely no purpose? Riddle me this batman?

To the above, NO, I have 2GB of ram, but when I am rendering some 3d stuff for a few games, and for my own enjoyment, I dont like having a browser take unnecessary memory that it shouldnt have to. I tried this browser, its ok, but the sheer fact alone that it REQUIRES services to run, is a negative impact on me. You can think what you want, but guess what, its called an opinion, and I am entitled to one ;-)

mehvii reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 24, 2005

I wish I could write an actual review on the program, but I tried to launch it twice, and both times as soon as the home page loaded my computer would completely freeze. So I can't say anything good about it.

Nikkie reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 24, 2005

Trendy Aol Bashers are pretty funny . They are so paraniod and seem to not know how to use a computer .

If you are afraid of spyware then get a spyware prog. .

Anyhow , This didn't install spyware and it runs very nice !!

This is perfect for my mother and a few others who use this service . I am using it right now . I have both firefox and this on my computer and im pretty happy .

I hope in future releases we can get extentions like firefox has . Adblock with filter g. would be fantastic ...

does anyone know if admuncher works with this ?

ill be back with the answer ..

'' If AOL would at least make it easy to disable the coexisting tasks''

That's what your firewall is for . grab zonealarm suite or even the free version ..

btw , opera 8 is great but it still wont view certian pages cause they were written for ie . sadley , same for firefox . maxthon is a great program , i agree but aol explorer is for people who use aol's functions (it is all nicely packed in one)..

seal_fk reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 22, 2005

For all AOL haters - this is great product!
No only beats IE in look and feel but it also is great and has some advanced features that IE will have in version 7.
I'm using it now as default browser and i'm really happy with!

improvelence reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 22, 2005

I am not going to promote any other browser on this forum but merely give a flat out review of this thing. First things first, I believe THIS should have been netscape...AOL needs to realize that the AOL name scares people away. The problem with this thing is that it runs other tasks that force themselves upon you, thin interface is actually not that bad and the ability to switch engines is great. If AOL would at least make it easy to disable the coexisting tasks, this might be worth it. Users want simplicity, this is why firefox has made so many leaps. The thing with AOL is that they patch their programs GUI's together so poorly that it begins to actually make it more difficult to use than alternate programs. But aside from all that, I can say as far as looks...this isnt half bad but it still could be cleaner and skinnier.

jshrk reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 22, 2005

This post is just for Tokar cause i know he likes it... Opera is a much better alternative or firefox or maxathon, down with AOL.

Delete Me

twosheds reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 19, 2005

This is a very nice Explorer shell, full-featured and highly configurable (and yes, I hate AOL as much as anyone but whoever coded this did a fine job). The reason I uninstalled it was, regrettably, that after start-up it leaves a 'HOST' running in Task Manager by default. When I shut something down, I want it to stay shut. Other than that, it's good.

LordNikon reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 19, 2005

I have tried many of these Aol Explorer Betas and I find even Netscape 8.0.2 to be more useful.

BTW FIREFOX does beat this IE shell by a longshot. For IE I'd use Maxathon :)

Tokar reviewed v1.1.4234.1035 on Jul 18, 2005

Thanks for your wonderful review of AOL Explorer. (SARCASM)

Go troll your firefox forums, or the fileforum review thread for firefox if you arent going to conribute anything here.

If you dont have anything better to say than "FireFox is better" or some variant of that without 1) trying the product or 2) having anything to say ABOUT the product, then dont post at all.
ArabianNight, get lost.

--------

This is the GoldMaster (GM) build. Development will be resuming a little later as reported on the forums.
For a GM build, its not too bad. Not much has changed since the first "AOL Explorer" Build, build 122 (Build 86,89,94,110 were all AOL Browser builds).
The side panels have all been fixed and the make-a-panel feature is really nice.

-------

My comment is perfectly fine. Basically it says that I'm tired of the IE look and feel and think that its old and in need of a refresh. The fact that FireFox comes out of the box looking and feeling like IE is not exactly my idea of a new look and feel.
AOL Explorer provides an interface that feels new and looks really cool. Sure, its an IE frontend, but if one wasnt told such it would be very difficult to know from the way it looks.

Get lost troll. Your browser, firefox, isnt the best thing to happen to this earth.

Notreallyhere reviewed v1.1.4234.1030 Beta on Jul 14, 2005

Some great ideas, but UI is very cluttered. At least it explores quickly

Tokar reviewed v1.1.4234.1030 Beta on Jul 12, 2005

Can you AOL haters please not reply?

I bet you dopes havent even tried the browser and are giving a 1/5 rating JUST because its from AOL.

Well for you dopes who fit in that category, just try the browser. No, there is no SPYWARE. No, there is no ADWARE (go check the softpedia rating...100% clean). NO, THERE IS NO AOL CRAPWARE like TOPSPEED or COMPUTER CHECK-UP, or any of that bologna.

Its just a browser...thats it.
They are taking these beta projects very seriously and arent making them like AOL 9.0 for newbs. These programs are for more seasoned computer users...

Can you please try a product before giving it a 1/5 rating?

Lots of people are impressed by the browser, a lot of people at Neowin forums are too.
The admins are active on the AOL Explorer beta forums, and are very open to suggestions.
The interface is excellent...unlike your Maxthon, Avant, GreenBrowser, etc. interface, which is meant to mimic Internet Explorer. Even FireFox was made to look and feel like IE. But AOL Explorer gives a fresh and clean interface and feel.

And for the guy who says Maxthon is the best IE Front End. I dont DISAGREE, but Maxthon is been in development for a LONG time...a LONG LONG TIME. AOL Explorer has been in development for, what, half a year? maybe even less than that. But for that little time, the product they put out is quite amazing.

Soon enough AOL Explorer will have all the features, if not more features, that Maxthon has.

Just be patient...you guys are so fast to throw AOL Explorer right out the window because its from AOL and there are other frontends out there.

RWW reviewed v1.1.4234.1030 Beta on Jul 11, 2005

Installed it out of curiosity and believe it has promise but nowhere near what Maxthon gives. Interested to see what all the front end people will do with IE7.

hypatech reviewed v1.0.4234.1025 Beta on Jul 11, 2005

This is the best browser that Ive seen that runs on the IE platform.Yes,I do hate IE.however I just love this explorer especially the look of it! IT even has a buit in Spyware Scanner!Like what browser has that!

Tokar reviewed v1.0.4234.1025 Beta on Jul 8, 2005

I can feel your pain with the IE front ends.
The thing is, AOL Explorer is out to be different.

When someone says IE Frontend the first thing that comes to mind is a browser that looks and feels like IE but adds some neat tools and tabbing.
Well AOL Explorer has the tabs, but there really isnt the IE look and feel. Thats why I like it...I get a whole new internet browser experience because its entirely different.

Hell, even firefox strives to be an IE clone. The default skin looks and feels like IE with tabs.

All the big IE Frontends look and feel like IE...Maxthon, GreenBrowser, Acoo, Avant, CrazyBrowser, DeepNet Explorer, etc. Its nice that AOL Explorer went away from the norm.

The browser is really coming along nicely. It has a bright future. The developers are very open to suggestions and are very nice.

AOL Explorer was the browser that finally got me hooked on tabs.

Zulithe reviewed v1.0.4234.1025 Beta on Jul 7, 2005

I like the look and feel, but am tired of all these IE6 frontends. I'll pass on this and hope someone creates a Firefox theme based on it. :)

crashoverride reviewed v1.0.4234.1025 Beta on Jul 7, 2005

This works much better than the last beta of this I downloaded. It's still slower than other browsers I've used though. I also uses a good bit more memory than IE and Firefox.

Drich reviewed v1.0.4234.1017 Beta on Jun 26, 2005

I love the new GUI. Its very modern, clean and easy to navigate. Webpages render quickly. Nice to have newsfeeds integrated with it as well. Still some things dont work very well, but it is beta. Signing in with your AOL account makes access to almost has to offer without launching the AOL client itself. A much better approach In my opinion.

animecabbit reviewed v1.0.4234.1017 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

I still don't understand why AOL bought Netscape, then a couple of years later renewed their IE license for inclusion with AOL. Then AOL released Mozilla, which FireFox is a part of, and now, AOL release a front end for IE?

Who is AOL working for? Themselves or their biggest competitor (MSN/IE)?

Tokar reviewed v1.0.4234.1017 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

Not much new...but its a new build...

-New address bar/progress bar color (blue instead of green)
-New Search bar (it searchs AOL Search Engine)
-New option in the settings to turn off preview images when hovering over tabs and such
-File/Edit/View/etc. menu bar color changed back to match the title bar (gray)

Tokar reviewed v1.0.4234.126 Beta on Jun 10, 2005

Well...i understand the gripes with the extra processes...but as I said before, while the processes use memory, they dont use CPU. They are there such that AOL Explorer loads fast...and I must say it does load quite fast.

I would like to note that the beta team is very active on the message boards so I do encourage you all to use it and bring up your gripes...mainly the processes deal. Maybe they can explain their reasoning behind it, because I sure cant...i m just taking a wild guess with what i said above.
http://messageboards.aol...ardId=540892&func=2
It requires a valid AIM login (which of course is free).

There are certain things about this browser that make it a lot better than IE...not just the tabs... They are very small things that only I myself would probably notice, but they are better in AOL Explorer. Cant go into depth or this review would be overly excessive.

Based on the activity of the beta team this browser has a bright bright future. They are VERY open to suggestions.

Metshrine reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 22, 2005

Any browser that requires system services automatically gets a 1 from me. If I could rate it lower I would. The browser itself isnt that bad, it works, but I just cant deal with the overhead of using 3 system services (which, big surprise, are the same ones installed when you install AOL's internet service software).

Also, for the below reviewer, this is why I resort to solutions that arent browser specific. Yes, admuncher costs money, but guess what, it works with ANY APPLICATION that accesses the internet and can filter its ad's, to include the ad's in opera's toolbar. 24.95 is a small price to pay for ad free internet and free updates for life :) And get this, it does MORE than adblock, *GASP*. I know people dont like it when you bad mouth their free products, but in this case, its true :)

ogman reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 21, 2005

Wow, I didn't realize there were so many ads on the internet! Been using firefox with a decent adblocking file for too long. This browser is no better than IE with the exception of tabs. I wonder how long they think the IE faithful will play with this after IE7 arrives. Myself? Back to firefox and a clean browsing experience.

captainahab reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 21, 2005

It's a small download even though it uses an installer program.
Very nice interface (I wish there was a Firefox skin like this... hint, hint)
Good popup blocker.
Has tabs.
Uses Internet Explorer - thus AOL Explorer.
Cool little web page preview when you point to tabs.

If you are an IE user, this is a great add-on. Very attractive and organized.

RobertM reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 21, 2005

Uses way too many processes to run and uses IE engine. At least the interface looks like it's getting better, aside from the fact that, in typical AOL style, it insists on being different from everything else.

Also, the new name is crazy. It's a clear rip from Internet Explorer, but it makes no sense. Everyone knows Internet Explorer is a Web browser (though it can also be used for FTP, which is probably why it got called Internet Explorer instead of Web Explorer) because it says *Internet* Explorer ... but what in the world could an AOL Explorer be? It's not used to explore AOL. I think they ripped off the wrong part of IE's name. OTOH, I guess no one expected Netscape Navigator to browse the Netscape, but at least Navigator was an original product name. Explorer isn't.

That being said, it *sounds* better than the plain old AOL Browser...and, as much as I really want this product to desperately fail in favor of Firefox or some better* alternative...it does at least appear to be getting better. :-)

*not ad-ified, nothing installed that you don't want to be, arguably more secure, and, most importantly for Web designers, more adherent to Web standards ... plus it includes other neat features like find-as-you-type (which, along with tabbed browsing, I don't know how I lived without), and easy extensibility

bangbang023 reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 21, 2005

The browser has a lot of high points to it, including the tabbed browsing w/ thumbnails, easy toggling of activex and javascript, built in whois information, continually improving UI, popup blocker, and more. However, until they cut down on the number of processes that it takes to run, this won't be widely accept in the enthusiast demographic.

DiGiTaLFX reviewed v1.0.4234.122 Beta on May 21, 2005

Neutral as I haven't tried it. But I'm interested in why AOL are making their own browser and pushing the development of a new Netscape Browser? Its like they have Winamp and AOL Media Player. I don't see the logic in all this effort to only get half as much out of it (admitidly getting it twice) in comparison to merging these projects.

miamorphos reviewed vBeta Build 0.94 on May 21, 2005

I have friends with an insane, almost paranoiac fear of AOL, and I tend to respect their tender, fragile response when the subject comes up.

Ironically, I chat with these same people via AIM, and they seem to pretend that it's not a product from the dreaded evil corporation.

I have used the 2G email account that apparently can only be opened with this browser several times. Once, I needed to send a huge attachment and my other accounts couldn't handle it. I am not going to rely on the browser or the email account as any kind of mainstay, but only because it's so new and who knows if it will be around in the future, eh?

The anti-Arab paranoia, activated by AOL's presence, isn't that surprising. Both types of prejudice are mindless, baseless, and responses to imaginary evils -- so I'm not surprised that an anti-AOL person would so quickly start denouncing other groups. Mindless prejudice, once you let it rule your thinking, will ultimately rule all your thinking.

just-crosby reviewed vBeta Build 0.94 on May 11, 2005

AOL Browser, nice try guys but no thanks!

Maverick_16 reviewed vBeta Build 0.94 on Apr 5, 2005

I wonder how on earth did BetaNews become a venue for the filth like (tc) who was civilised enough (not like arabs??? according to him!!!) to rate this prog without even trying it. I can only see his act as a direct terrorist attack on this site and it's citizens including fellow Arabs, and his country should be invaded and raped ASAP.

Now back to AOL BROWSER 0.94 BETA: well... it doesn't really add much. Hopefully it would contribute something of benefit to AOL's members. BUT REALLY, do the world need another mutant browser?

Tokar reviewed vBeta Build 0.94 on Apr 5, 2005

Antibuddha: Why open your door even a tiny bit to the ultimate Trojan Horse, AOL?

Its not a Trojan Horse. And unlike AOL 9.0, this is far from the bloatware you have learned to hate. In fact, outside of the Desktop Search, there is no crapware.

Stadi: It installed a lot of stuff that wanted to connect to the internet even when the browser wasn't running. It made some folders in the favorites without asking, I uninstalled it and it rebooted the computer without asking.

Like what? Desktop Search? Turn it off in the settings...besides killing the process. TopSpeed? Kill the service in the window services config. I dont know what else there is. What Browser software doesnt create new folders? The new folder it creates is titled AOL Browser. 2 subfolders...the Favortes bar, which is like your IE Links. And then a REALLY NEAT folder called "Startup". It lets you put bookmarks/favorites in there, such that when you open AOL Browser those pages open up automatically.
AOL Browser, prior to beta 0.94 never asked to reboot...or if it did it always warned me about it.

WicketR: They need something that makes them stand out from the other browsers, and right now I see no reason to switch. They'll need to do it though without adding bloat like the current version of AOL.
I used to have aol 3.0 and after visiting a relative with the latest version i almost threw up seeing all the crap that pops up when you sign on. It's absolutely an amazing feat at how crappy they've made the "user experience".

What pops up? I ran the Browser the first time and the only thing that pops up is a browser with a tab open to AOL homepage. Sure, the search bar is open, all of which are in the interface and NOT popups...but they are easily closed. I actually am having a great "user experience" with it.
I think they already are standing out with this browser. From my experinces with other browsers, AOL has a lot of stuff that other browsers dont have. The webpage images thumbs, especially. Just hover your mouse over pages you have loaded in the past and up comes a popup with the image thumb...REALLY neat.
Then the power browsing features...those are fun and some VERY USEFUL.
AOL clearly is standing out with this browser.

I wish you all would just start yourselves at square 1, as if you never heard of AOL before and download this browser to give a run. This browser is completely uncharacteristic of AOL...in a good way. Its free, yet has no advertising like AIM. It also lacks the crap-ware that comes with AIM, like WildTangent, Viewpoint Media Player, WeatherBug, etc. It lacks all that bloatware that comes with AOL 9.0 (or previous versions) software. It doesnt overtake your computer like AOL 9.0 does. Its JUST a browser which is an IE frontend...nothing more. Sure it comes with the Desktop Search, and Top Speed, but these arent like the crap that come with AOL 9.0 or such. They are neat tools, which I will never use, but someone may find use for.

It has a great interface, and hell, the people developing the software are quite active on the AOL Browser Beta Message Boards...accessible with your AIM/AOL ScreenName thru the ScreenName service.

Just give it a try...Im sure you wont be COMPLETELY upset.

wicketr reviewed vBeta Build 0.94 on Apr 5, 2005

The interface looks clean and impressive. However with the multitude of browsers out there already, I think AOL is about 2 years late getting into the game...though they do have money.

They need something that makes them stand out from the other browsers, and right now I see no reason to switch. They'll need to do it though without adding bloat like the current version of AOL.

I used to have aol 3.0 and after visiting a relative with the latest version i almost threw up seeing all the crap that pops up when you sign on. It's absolutely an amazing feat at how crappy they've made the "user experience".

Is that what this browser is going to go to by version 5,6,7???

Stadi reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 28, 2005

Hi! It looked nice, but it has flaws becouse of i'm never going to use it. It installed a lot of stuff that wanted to connect to the internet even when the browser wasn't running. It made some folders in the favorites without asking, I uninstalled it and it rebooted the computer without asking. After uninstalling it, it left a lot of garbage in the registry. So I keep on using Maxthon...

Antibuddha reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 26, 2005

Why open your door even a tiny bit to the ultimate Trojan Horse, AOL? Do you really need another browser? (Would you like a piece of candy little girl?) My advice is to keep anything associated with AOL off of your computer. If you're the type that doesn't mind overpaying for overly intrusive software (I'm talking AOL's one size fits all approach) and turning over control of your computer to a suite of second rate products then go for it. Otherwise, keep anything associated with this unprincipaled goliath away from your door.

donpacman reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 24, 2005

It's a safe bet AOL will ruin Firefox now "just like WinAMP"

some guy reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 24, 2005

aol do I need to say more I will stick to firefox

rozaray25 reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 24, 2005

I like it it is very good! But not better than IE 6 SP2!

dannysalerno7 reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 24, 2005

It's a Great browser, though one must say it's a great base off of the Firefox code, just a bit.. I noticed the loading icon is the same along with the Firefox Functionality.. IE with a Mozilla twist.. Can I have an IE with Firefox on the rocks :>

iamtux reviewed vBeta Build 0.89 on Mar 24, 2005

Though I'm not a fan of AOL or IE based browsers, I have to say I really like this browser. Its small, fast, and its got a nice, compact little interface. I've used it as my default browser for a few days and I have to say I found no faults with it and found nothing I didn't like. Though, I'm sure I would have it enjoyed some more of the features of I was a member. Can't wait to see it when its finished. Gotta give it to AOL on this one.

arbroath1 reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 9, 2005

This does appear to be a little faster than standard IExplorer. As an AOL subscriber, I have been using alternative browsers, and email clients, avoiding their bundled all-in-one AOL 9.0 or equivalent.

This answers a lot of probs, to use a separate browser but still be able to use AOL services.

Links can be added to the top bar, by moving or adding bookmarks to the AOL Browser folder in Favourites.

Did this installer include Spyware? My Microsoft Spyware Beta didn't approve of some of the included files, but then the Microsoft Spyware Beta dislikes anything that tweaks Internet Explorer in any way.

Top Speed works by keeping a cache of visited pages, and pre-loads some links from pages. To turn on Top Speed, the AOL Browser asks to Sign On to AOL.

It would be great if the AOL Browser automatically signs the user on to AOL, using the screen name. A bit awkward to have to turn on Top Speed as a separate action.

To access AOL content Channels is now very simple, using the icons to the left of the main browsing pane. Radio@aol can be accessed using AOL Browser, which was not possible with other browsers other than the full AOL program, or AOL Communicator. This is great news.

Also as an AOL user, using AOL Games is now greatly improved, with auto-signing in to it's vast selections.

I do like this browser.

An option to import from other browsers would be a nice option. I have used Opera, and Firefox for a while and have had to manually copy and paste favourites.

A small bug - The option to open multiple pages on Startup doesn't appear to be active, following the Help Guide.

Worth a try, if an existing AOL subscriber.
Use this as a browser, and an alternative email client such as Incredimail (AOL's IMAP servers can now be used with other Mail clients).

Ogdenous reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 8, 2005

I prefer Mozilla Firefox engine in the backgroun. More safe compared to IE.

Tokar reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 8, 2005

First thing you will notice is that its another variant of IE...which Im all for (Im an antiFirefox person...so im all positive on this one).

it has tabbed browsing...thumbs up.
it seems to run faster than IE, a lot faster...thumbs up.
it imports IE favorites...thumbs up.
it includes a popup blocker similar to IE's, i think a little better in fact, since you have the option to block richmedia...thumbs up.
it has a lot of cool things in integrated website icons, showing a mini-image of the page in the mouse-over popup box...thumbs up.
It comes with some REALLY neat power browsing features (remove backgroung images, zoom in/out, high contrast colors, to name a few)...thumbs up here.
Has some stupid but really coolr power browsing things...like show everything backwards (like elgooG is to Google)...or upside down...nothing I really need to use, but they are there for fun...thumbs up here.
All the right click menus are the same as IE...as well as have the ones built in from installing programs such as download managers like FlashGet or such, plus the Power Browsing menu...thumbs up here...
It comes with the AOL Desktop Search...I'll probably never use it, but its there for you Desktop Search junkies...

A few things I dont like so far...
I cant seem to get any toolbars set up...
I have my google toolbar (sure I wouldnt expect it to work in the first place), which doesnt show up in the browser.
I cant seem to find anything that would allow me to add toolbars the way IE allows me...allowing me to show my Links toolbar.
The TopSpeed tool (which is some kind of web speed up thing) seems to only be available to AOL users...I tried my AIM SN, but it doesnt seem to work.
The Installer is kinda dumb. its like all AOL downloaders...itll open some flash created crap thing that has to download some temp files which then installs. I would prefer installs to be one big MSI file or something similar, especially by today's standards.
The Settings window is a little slow. It opens fast, but switching between options menus is slow since it blends into the next menu, which on my computer is slow at least.
The settings is quite lackluster as well, having only five lackluster menus:
TopSpeed menu, which only shows if you have TopSpeed on
PopUp blocker Menu, which is the same as Internet Explorer's in terms of look and feel
Desktop Search, which I will never use
Tabbed Browsing, which is pretty lackluster, but standard options are there
And General, which has homepage setting, default browser check, and a link to the Windows Internet Explorer Settings.

But because of all the nicities and the clean, very clean, look i give it 5/5.

Mike162005 reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 8, 2005

I've been testing AOL Browser for quite some time now. It is a really good browser. Still uses IE, but hey it's got tabbed browseing, and it's much faster than IE also.

kashin reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

What a joke.. I feel sorry for anyone who's forced to use AOL software of any kind. Those who actually *choose* to use anything by AOL are just idiots. My two most hated companies are AOL and Symantec, both companies are incapable of innovation on their own. All they do is buy up smaller companies and developers to do their dirty work. Everything those two touch turns to s***. When that happens they just go find more companies to buy and run them into the ground. It's us end users that always suffer because of them. If it's not "AOL Browser" it's some other garbage software that installes 50mbs of DLL's in your system folder, a handful of desktop icons linking to their sites, 'special offers' or more of their s***ty software. They also like to install a few million new registry entries, hidden services nobody needs or wants, various tool bars, search bars, etc. Stay away from anything AOL if you know what's good for you.

Nikkie reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

I can remove the extra services etc.

maybe one day someone will make a clean version but otherwise .. not bad .

Luvsnow reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

It looks nice and is clean enough. There are too many services and they should clean that up, but I haven't noticed any effect on my system (yet), which is what I ultimately care about. It's still in beta so it should be cleaned up a little, but I have to say it's better than expected.

L4zy1 reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

what to expect
first it's not a direct download link
the link send you to sign-in to aol
when you do it takes you here
http://beta.aol.com/prot...olbrowser/download.html

from which you can download that below
http://beta.aol.com/prot.../aolbrowser/AOLDNLD.exe
which isn't the browser installer
it's a downloader which downloads the installer to who knows where
after that's done and you say yes I want to install the browser
it installs a bunch of new services

New AOL services under user
AOLServiceHost.exe 24,456 KB of ram
AOLServiceHost.exe 7,748 KB of ram
AOLServiceHost.exe 7,492 KB of ram
AOLHostManager.exe 2,988 KB of ram

New aol services under system
aoltpspd.exe 3,088 KB of ram
aoltsmon.exe 2,216 KB of ram

This was to intrusive
I didn't ask for all of this

I thought this was aol browser
not aol going to install a bunch of services, and put shortcut to services you don't want
desktop search I didnt even have the option to not install

I just hope I can remove most of this
and I really hope anti-spyware software companies will see this as spyware
and offer the option to remove all of this aohells hidden components
as I'm sure there will be lots left behind when I un-install

Pipewrench reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

I think it looks really nice. I also expected worse. Maybe they'll do better from here on out. I also have to say that AOL as a company and a service has gotten a lot better over the last 5 years.

moogleman reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

I was expecting worse, seeing how this *is* AOL, but it's not great, either. It's kind of a resource hog, so it feels kind of sluggish. I'm guessing it would be faster without the unnecessary desktop search, maybe? Anyway, the only things this really has going for it are the built-in bookmarklets and nice pop-up blocking.

unforgivendown reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

Honestly, this browser is kind of nice. It uses IE as it's rendering engine, so take that as you will. It doesn't really have as many features as other browsers (such as Firefox [with extensions], or Avant, or Opera) but it almost reminds me of Safari. The interface, while non-standard, is fairly non-threatening, and I do like their color choices. I am not a real big fan of the fact that they integrated their desktop search into the browser, but it seems easy enough to turn off. If and when they start bundling it with other software, I will lower my rating, but until then this is a solid showing. But c'mon AOL, don't make us sign up for an AIM account just to download a beta.

ZJAM reviewed vBuild 0.86 on Feb 7, 2005

i actually like this program i couldnt resist to try it but its pretty good