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Yeah if an extension could convert the base64 on the fly one should, in theory, be able to surf and view pics on the chain so long as some tag alerted the browser extension.

Or, the front ends could do it?

Hadn't thought of that, although it would add some processing power to the operations. It seems minimal encoding/decoding one pic yet at high volume it could be costly.

Wouldn't it happen in my browser?

For the decoding to happen either the browser would need the ability to access the base64 encryption code available on most operating systems or use an extension work around. For Condenser to deliver it to the user would mean that it would have to unencrypt it for you is my feeling.

Still sounds better than paying a host.

A HIVE browser may be the way to go. It could handle an ease of account creation. Have Key Chain integrated for ease of use. Base64 decryption by adding a tag to the markup that it will recognise a base64 encrypted image. There could be a lot of grunt work exported from Condenser that way.

P.S. Browser = Brave clone