Have you ever wondered what's behind your web browser? If you unravel the secrets, you'll discover something interesting at its core. Google Chrome is based on a project called Chromium, and you might be surprised to learn how many other browsers share this foundation. 🌐
The Chrome Open Source Core
Simply put, “Chromium” is the name of the open-source project that provides most of the code for the Google Chrome browser. Being open source means its source code is available to everyone, and anyone can examine, modify, and distribute it. This collaborative nature allows for contributions from developers around the world. 🌍
Chromium was initially released in September 2008 (along with Chrome). From the outset, the lack of a master password for saved logins caused some concern, although Google remained firm on the issue. Despite this, development moved forward rapidly. Linux support arrived in version 3, incorporating native themes. Performance improved, and the interface began to lean toward minimalism. Features such as a built-in PDF reader and support for new video formats appeared.
In 2011, there was talk of major interface changes, even considering removing the URL bar, but these ideas were ultimately scrapped. Instead, the focus shifted to a lighter browser, better integration with web apps, cloud features, and touchscreen support. Support for multiple profiles was introduced, and security was improved with malware detection.
Related
What is the difference between Chromium and Chrome?
Chromium is an open-source browser project that forms the basis of the Chrome browser.
In the following years, the service of Chrome sync became available for Chromium. New APIs enabled better web communication, and Google officially stopped using the engine Apple's WebKit rendering. Recent updates have focused on security improvements and design changes. 🔒
But Chromium isn't just for Chrome. It serves as the foundation for a multitude of other web browsers, several of which you're probably already familiar with. This shared foundation allows different browsers to offer similar core functionality while adding their own unique features and designs. So, when you browse the web in a browser other than Chrome, there's a good chance Chromium is playing a significant role behind the scenes. 🕵️♂️
Chromium is a Team Project
Chromium Projects
Chromium in 2025
There are several Chromium-based browsers, but not all are created equal. Google Chrome, for example, is proprietary. Google takes Chromium's code and adds its own closed-source components, making it no longer open source. Many Chromium-based browsers are proprietary, but some remain fully open source. 🔑
Owners
Arc
Amazon Silk
Avast
Comodo Dragon
DuckDuckGo
Ecosia Browser
Epic
Google Chrome
Huawei
Maxthon
Microsoft Edge
Naver Whale
NetFront
Opera
Puffin
Samsung Internet
Sleipnir
SRWare Iron
UC Browser
Vivaldi
Open Source
Brave
Dooble
Falkon
Konqueror
Otter
qutebrowser
Supermium
ungoggled-chromium
Google has owned the Chromium project from the beginning, but it's not alone in contributing to the code. Companies like Microsoft, Igalia, Yandex, Intel, Samsung, LG, Opera, and Vivaldi have also contributed to Chromium. Some of these contributions carry over to other Chromium-based browsers, improving things for everyone. 👍
Using Chromium as a Browser?
Now, you might be wondering, “If Chromium is the basis of Chrome, can I use it as my daily browser?” The answer is yes, you absolutely can. In fact, there are automated build systems that compile the latest Chromium code in installable appsThese versions of Chromium are essentially a barebones version of what eventually becomes Google Chrome. ⚙️
However, while technically possible, using a raw version of Chromium as your primary browser comes with some significant caveats. One of the most notable differences is the absence of Google's proprietary features and services. For example, the built-in account sync that keeps bookmarks, history, passwords, and settings consistent across devices isn't present in Chromium. The automatic updates that keep Chrome secure and up to date with new features aren't available in Chromium either: you'd have to update it manually.
Another key omission is support for certain digital rights management (DRM) technologies. This means that some streaming services that require DRM, such as Netflix, may not work properly on a pure Chromium build.
The idea of using the open-source core directly may sound appealing, especially if you're trying to de-Google your life. However, there are better options in the list above for a Google-free browsing experience. 🚫
In short, you can think of Chromium as similar to Android. Google and others contribute to the Android Open Source Project, which is then adopted by manufacturers and used to create One UI, OxygenOS, and Pixel UI. Yes, you can technically run pure Android on a phone, but it's missing many critical elements.
So, while you can certainly try Chromium, it's best to think of it as a raw engine rather than a polished vehicle. For your everyday browsing needs, sticking with a fully functional browser will save you a lot of hassle and provide a smoother experience. You'll get the benefits of Chromium's solid foundation, along with the ease of use and additional features you've come to expect. 🚀
