Brave Browser is rolling out a new feature called “custom scriptlets” in version 1.75 for desktop users, giving them the power to inject their own JavaScript into websites. This update brings unprecedented customization and control, putting it in the same league as TamperMonkey and GreaseMonkey, two popular browser extensions that allow users to modify web pages with custom scripts.
Brave initially developed this feature to debug its ad-blocking system, but the company quickly realized its potential and decided to make it available to the public. Now, tech-savvy users can tweak their browsing experience down to the finest detail—from blocking intrusive ads to creating shortcuts that automate repetitive tasks.
A Powerful Tool for Privacy and Customization
With custom scriptlets, users can modify web pages in ways that go far beyond basic browser settings or extensions. The feature can be used for privacy, usability, and security improvements.
- Privacy Enhancements: Users can block JavaScript-based trackers, randomize fingerprinting APIs to make device tracking harder, and replace Google Analytics scripts with a harmless dummy version.
- Customization & Accessibility: Scriptlets can hide pop-ups, sidebars, and floating ads, force dark mode on websites, and adjust font sizes for better readability.
- Usability Upgrades: Websites with annoying autoplay videos? Scriptlets can disable video autoplay, force infinite scrolling, or even create custom keyboard shortcuts.
Imagine having the ability to auto-expand hidden content on forums or news websites that limit visibility—without relying on third-party browser extensions. That’s the level of control Brave is handing over to its users.
How Custom Scriptlets Work
Brave has tucked this advanced feature behind a Developer Mode flag to prevent accidental misuse. It’s not something that appears front and center in settings—you’ll have to manually enable it.
To access custom scriptlets:
- Open Brave and navigate to
brave://settings/shields/filters. - Enable Developer Mode in the Shields > Content Filtering section.
- Click “Add new scriptlet” to insert custom JavaScript.
Once enabled, a warning box will appear before allowing scriptlets to be added, reminding users that pasting unverified code could pose security risks. Brave is making it clear—this feature is meant for those who understand JavaScript and are comfortable tweaking browser behavior without breaking websites.
Similarities to TamperMonkey and GreaseMonkey
For those familiar with TamperMonkey and GreaseMonkey, Brave’s scriptlets will feel right at home. Both extensions allow users to run custom scripts on specific websites, modifying how pages look and behave. Brave is bringing this native functionality directly into its browser, eliminating the need for an external add-on.
One of the key advantages of Brave’s approach is integration with ad-blocking filter lists. This means users can subscribe to curated filter lists and have custom script rules applied automatically.
Here’s a quick comparison of how Brave’s scriptlets stack up against existing tools:
| Feature | Brave Scriptlets | TamperMonkey | GreaseMonkey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Native integration | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Adblock filter rules | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Custom JavaScript | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Requires Extension | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Security Warning | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
The native integration aspect is a game-changer for users who want customization without relying on third-party extensions that may have privacy concerns.
The Risks of Running Custom Scripts
As exciting as this feature is, Brave has issued a strong warning: only use scripts you fully understand and trust. Injecting unknown JavaScript into websites can introduce vulnerabilities—from breaking page functionality to opening security loopholes.
Some potential risks include:
- Website malfunctions: Poorly written scripts could block essential site features or cause layout issues.
- Privacy threats: Malicious scripts could log keystrokes or steal personal data if executed without scrutiny.
- Browser instability: Overloading pages with scripts could slow down browsing or lead to crashes.
Brave is keeping things as safe as possible by limiting scriptlet functionality to advanced users, requiring manual activation, and showing explicit warnings before allowing code injections.
Final Thoughts: A Bold Move for Power Users
With custom scriptlets, Brave Browser is taking a bold step toward full browsing control. While most users won’t need this feature, it’s a massive win for privacy enthusiasts, developers, and users who want to break free from restrictive website experiences.
For now, Brave is making sure only power users can access this tool. But who knows? As browser customization becomes more mainstream, scriptlets could evolve into a standard feature across browsers in the future.
Brave version 1.75 is rolling out soon—ready to give its users the deepest level of website control they’ve ever had.