Kagi Weblog – An Replace on Orion for Linux and Windows

Today we’ve got an vital replace. We are ending improvement of Orion for Linux and Windows, and we’re open-sourcing each so the group can carry them ahead. Kagi is stepping again from growing these platforms immediately so our staff can put extra concentrate on Orion for macOS and iOS.

Orion is constructed by a really small staff, only a handful of builders, funded fully by Kagi customers. We additionally selected to construct it the laborious method by not forking Chromium. That independence issues greater than ever. The net wants a couple of engine, and a couple of firm deciding what a browser ought to be.

When we introduced Orion for Linux, the response was overwhelming. Many of you have been thrilled, examined early builds, filed bug experiences, and informed us how a lot you needed a WebKit-based browser on Linux that respects your privateness. Thank you. That work will quickly belong to everybody.

Why we’re doing this

When we determined to take Orion past the Apple ecosystem, we knew it was an enormous wager for a small, unbiased firm. We made it as a result of we consider proudly owning the entire expertise starting with the browser, issues.

Building a cross-platform browser is one thing often executed by firms backed by enterprise capital or by giant open-source communities. Kagi is neither. One factor we hear usually from members is that they need us targeted. They’re proper. Rather than unfold a small staff throughout three platforms, we’re placing our vitality the place we will do our greatest work and opening the remaining to individuals who need to take it additional.

What this implies for Orion on macOS and iOS

Orion for macOS and iOS is not altering, besides to get higher. The staff and assets that have been cut up throughout platforms at the moment are targeted on making Orion on Apple gadgets sooner, extra steady, and extra succesful. Expect regular enhancements within the coming months.

What open-sourcing seems to be like

We’ll launch the supply code for Orion for Linux and Orion for Windows. Quite a lot of good work went into it, and it deserves a future even when we aren’t those who end it now. We’re excited about this fastidiously and can launch particulars within the subsequent 30 days.

We’ve additionally reached out to open-source foundations and organizations about long-term stewardship. To be clear about our position: Kagi will not be the core maintainer. These tasks want individuals who need to personal them.

Get concerned

If you are a developer, maintainer, or group fascinated by stewarding Orion for Linux or Windows, we need to hear from you. Reach us at [email protected].

What this implies for present customers

Linux: The present Linux Beta will hold working, however it’s going to cease receiving updates from Kagi after October 2, 2026. We do not advocate utilizing it as your essential browser.

Windows: We had deliberate to launch Orion for Windows in late 2026. That launch will not come from Kagi. Instead, the code will probably be out there for the group to construct on. If you signed up for the Windows publication, this would be the final replace you obtain from that record.

Thank you

To everybody who examined, reported bugs, and believed in an unbiased browser past the Apple ecosystem: thanks. You helped construct one thing value sharing, and we’re glad to share it with the group.

Thank you on your persistence, your enthusiasm, and your belief.

— the Kagi staff