Kagi releases alpha version of Orion for Linux (help.kagi.com)

Article summary

Kagi has released an alpha version of its Orion browser for Linux, which is built with WebKit and offers various features such as tab management, bookmarking, and password management. The alpha version is an early, unstable release meant for testing, and some features like WebKit Extension support and sync infrastructure are not yet implemented. The browser is also available on macOS and iOS/iPadOS, where it faces limitations due to Apple's restrictions on default search engines. The Linux release aims to provide an alternative to other browsers on the platform.

Main themes

• Browser development
• WebKit engine
• Linux support
• Search engine restrictions
• Browser alternatives
• Open-source vs closed-source

What commenters say

• The use of WebKit as the browser engine is a deliberate choice, possibly due to its ease of use and the restrictions on other engines on certain platforms.
• Apple's limitations on default search engines on iOS are seen as anti-competitive and restrictive, prompting some users to seek alternative browsers or workarounds.
• Some users prefer Orion over other browsers due to its features and performance, but others find it lacking in certain areas, such as tab management and autofill functionality.
• The lack of open-source availability for Orion on Linux is seen as a drawback by some users, who prefer open-source alternatives or question the decision to use a closed-source browser on an open-source operating system.
• GrapheneOS is presented as a potential alternative to traditional mobile operating systems, offering more privacy and control, but requiring more technical expertise to set up and use.
• The restriction on default search engines on iOS is not unique to Apple, as other browsers on other platforms also have similar limitations, but the lack of customization options on iOS is particularly frustrating for some users.
• Some users suggest that browsers could allow custom search engines by permitting users to enter a custom URL, which would bypass the need for explicit support and deals with search engine providers.
• The choice of browser engine and operating system is often a trade-off between convenience, performance, and privacy, with different users prioritizing different factors.