When it comes to browsers, Android has consistently had the upper hand. However, it misses out on a cool browser that has topped every iOS user’s app list: Arc. Released just last year, the Arc mobile app has been widely praised for all the benefits it brings to the table.
With a sleek, clean UI and a fast search experience, Arc has a lot going for it. Recently, it introduced a new feature that makes this quirky little browser even more fun to use.
The makers of Arc Browser, The Browser Company, posted a hilarious trailer of the new Call feature on their social media handles. Watching it gave me a serious urge to try it out. After a few hiccups (which I’ll discuss later), I finally did, and it was definitely worth it.
Deciphering the Mechanics of Arc’s New Call Feature
If you already have the Arc browser installed on your iOS device, you’re in luck. Just make sure it’s updated, and you’re good to go. If you haven’t installed it yet, go ahead and download the browser first. Once installed, there are two ways to access the new feature.
The fun way is to bring your phone up to your ear as if you’re making a call while in the Arc browser. Arc will magically appear and greet you with a quick “Hello,” signaling that you can start voicing your query. Alternatively, you can summon the feature by long-pressing the app icon in your library and tapping the dedicated Call Arc button.
Once you’re done, enjoy some elevator music while Arc Call searches the web for the best answer. Although it’s slower compared to conventional browsing, it’s undeniably fun. The call-hold music made me giggle, as it cleverly mimicked an actual call experience.
…you’ll groove to some elevator music while Arc Call scours the web for the best answer. Although it’s a tad slower than your typical browsing, it’s undeniably enjoyable.
Interestingly, the call page doesn’t close on its own. You can keep it open beside you, and it continues listening. To activate it, simply tap on the voice bar, and it will start listening. The attention to detail is impressive, with the call duration displayed at the top.
Below that, there’s a cheerful floating emoji representing Arc. This isn’t just for show; the emoji’s mouth moves with each response you receive. It’s a delightful touch to the feature.
If you want to explore your query further after Arc responds, you can tap the Read More icon at the bottom right.This directs you to a page with more detailed information. If you prefer to search the query on Google, there’s a button for that at the top of the page.
Minor Bumps in the Road: Nothing Too Serious
As I mentioned earlier, I encountered a couple of hiccups while trying to get the feature to work. Even though I had updated the browser app, the Call Arc button was missing. However, after deleting and reinstalling the app, the feature appeared.
Despite granting the app its required permissions, it initially failed to detect them, and the call feature wouldn’t work. Another reinstall finally resolved the issue, and the feature started working for me.
What impressed me was how well-thought-out and intuitive the browser and its features are. It may not be the fastest, but it’s undeniably fun. It feels like having a personal talking browser at your disposal 24/7, bringing the browser to life in a playful way.
In a sea of browsers that offer similar functionality, it’s refreshing to see something that stands out like this. I’d love to see the browser make its way to Android soon. For now, it’s limited to iOS, macOS, and Windows.
With that said, I’m definitely off to give Arc Browser another call. What about you? Have you tried it yet? If so, let me know in the comments if you enjoy its quirky features!
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