The Browser Company mulls selling or open-sourcing Arc Browser amid AI-focused pivot | TechCrunch
May 27, 2025 - techcrunch.com
The Browser Company is considering selling or open-sourcing its Arc Browser as it shifts focus to developing a new AI-powered browser called Dia. Arc, described as complex and experimental, has faced challenges due to its novelty and lack of cohesion in features and values. While the company continues to provide bug fixes and security updates for Arc, it has ceased adding new features. CEO Josh Miller noted the difficulty in open-sourcing Arc due to its reliance on the Arc Development Kit (ADK), which is also integral to Dia, thus making it a valuable company asset.
Despite user requests to open-source Arc, The Browser Company is cautious about releasing the ADK. Dia is currently in alpha testing, with no set date for a broader release, but it will be available for testing to Arc members. The company aims to create a more user-friendly product with Dia, appealing to a broader audience.
Key takeaways:
The Browser Company is considering selling or open-sourcing its Arc Browser to focus on developing a new AI-powered browser called Dia.
Arc Browser faced challenges due to its complexity and lack of cohesion, leading to a "novelty tax" problem for users.
The company is hesitant to open-source Arc because it would require open-sourcing the Arc Development Kit, which is integral to their new browser Dia.
Dia browser is still in alpha testing, with no set date for wider release, but will be available for testing to Arc members.
