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Match your browser to your bandwidth on Android

Wouldn't it be nice if you could get the best browsing experience based on your connection speed? Now you can with one small and simple app.

Nicole Cozma
Nicole Cozma has an affinity for Android apps and devices, but loves technology in general. Based out of the Tampa Bay Area, she enjoys being a spectator to both sunsets and lightning storms.
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Nicole Cozma
2 min read

Some Android browsers deliver all the content, while others cut back for faster browsing. Choosing the correct browser for your connection type each time can become tedious--but there's a quick fix.

With Smart Browser Chooser, a free app on the Android Market, you can decide which browser is used based on your connection speed. All it takes is a couple minutes of setup and whether you're on Wi-Fi, 3G, or 2G, your Android device will know which browser to load for the best user experience.

Note: In order to use this app, you need to have different browsers to choose from. A few suggestions to try (like the ones used in this how to) are Dolphin HD, Skyfire, and Opera Mobile

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Step 1: Install Smart Browser Chooser from the Android Market.

This is the list of browsers you can choose from. Nicole Cozma

You should see all of your choices under their respective connection speeds. Nicole Cozma

Step 2: Open the app and pick browsers from the drop-down menus under each connection type.

Click the check box, and then pick Smarter Browser Chooser. Nicole Cozma

Step 3: Click on the Set as default browser button near the bottom.

As the app suggests, you may need to clear the default settings you've assigned to other browsers. If that's the case, check out how to clear a default app setting for assistance.

(Optional) Step 4: Adding a shortcut icon to your Home screen will let you adjust these settings on the fly. Maybe one browser is performing better on slower or faster connections after an update, and having a shortcut can help remind you to choose that browser over another.

Now when you're connected to Wi-Fi, 3G, or 2G, you can use the browser best suited for the job. Since these changes aren't permanent, you can change your mind at any time and go back to using one browser you find dependable for all connection types.