Orion Browser has officially arrived on macOS, bringing a refreshing alternative to today’s AI-heavy web browsers. Built by the creators of the Kagi search engine, this new 1.0 release emphasizes speed, efficiency, and user privacy—making it stand out in a market increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence tools.
Unlike many modern browsers that highlight AI companions, generative assistants, or predictive features, Orion takes a different path. It aims to deliver a clean, minimal, and fast browsing experience while minimizing data collection. The browser is built on Apple’s WebKit engine—the same foundation used by Safari—which allows it to run smoothly and efficiently across the Apple ecosystem.
A Browser Designed for Pure Speed and Complete Privacy
Orion Browser arrives with a clear promise: get rid of the unnecessary and give users a high-performance, private browsing environment. It comes with built-in ad-blocking and tracker-blocking technology, enabled by default. This not only prevents third-party tracking but also ensures noticeably faster loading times on many websites.
By reducing overhead and avoiding the bloat of AI-driven features, the browser appeals especially to users who prefer a lightweight, distraction-free web experience.
Unique Extension Support: Chrome and Firefox Add-ons on WebKit
One of the standout features of Orion Browser is its universal extension support. While it uses the WebKit engine, the browser can run extensions designed for Chrome and Firefox—a rare capability in this category.
This flexibility gives Orion a huge advantage, particularly for users frustrated with Safari’s limited extension ecosystem. Whether it’s productivity tools, privacy add-ons, or UI customization extensions, users can continue to rely on their favorite plugins without switching to a heavy Chromium-based browser.
The developers describe this system as a hybrid approach that combines WebKit’s energy efficiency and macOS integration with the powerful extension ecosystems of competing browsers.
More Features Built for Mac Users
Orion Browser includes several thoughtful features tailored for productivity and long-term usability:
• Vertical Tab Management
Perfect for users who manage dozens of tabs daily, vertical tabs make navigation easier and more organized.
• Low Power Consumption
According to the development team, Orion consumes significantly less power than many popular browsers. This is especially valuable for MacBook users who depend on long battery life for work or travel.
• Optimized for Apple Ecosystem
From performance to UI smoothness, the entire experience is tuned for macOS, giving it a native and polished feel.
Free to Use, No Account Needed, Optional Orion+ Subscription
Orion Browser is completely free and can be used without creating an account. Users also receive 200 free searches on the Kagi search engine.
For those who want more, an optional subscription called Orion+ is available for $5 per month. Orion+ includes:
- Syncing settings across devices
- Focus Mode
- Session management tools
- Note-taking features
- Priority customer support
This subscription model supports the browser’s long-term development without relying on tracking-based advertising.
Available on macOS, iPhone, and iPad
Orion Browser is already available on macOS, and users can also download the iOS and iPadOS versions directly from the App Store. The development team has shared an ambitious roadmap for the coming year, including:
- More advanced customization options
- Improved stability and performance for complex web apps
- Deeper integration with Kagi’s intelligent tools
- Additional Orion+ exclusive features
This paints a promising future for users looking for a browser that stays fast, private, and efficient without compromising functionality.
Ready to Try Orion Browser?
If you’re looking for a fast, private, and distraction-free browser experience—free from unnecessary AI add-ons—Orion Browser is already available for download on Mac, iPhone, and iPad.