Have you ever stopped to consider how smoothly your web browser functions? If you peel back the layers, you’ll find something interesting at the core. You might be surprised by how many other browsers share the name “Chromium,” which is the foundation of Google Chrome.
The Google Chrome Browser’s Open-Source Core
To put it simply, the majority of the code for the Google Chrome browser is contained within the “Chromium” open-source project. Open-source software allows anyone to view, modify, and distribute its source code. Developers from all over the world are able to participate due to the collaborative nature.
- In September 2008, Chromium was made available for the first time alongside Chrome.
- The absence of a master password for saved logins initially sparked concern, but Google stood firm in its opposition.
- Nevertheless, rapid progress was achieved. Support for Linux and native themes were added in version 3.
- As performance improved, the interface began to lean toward minimalism. Features like a built-in PDF reader and support for new video formats appeared.
Major UI changes, including the elimination of the URL bar, were discussed in 2011, but these plans were ultimately shelved. Instead, the focus shifted to cloud features, touch screen support, a smaller browser, and improved web app integration. We saw the introduction of multi-profile support and improved security with malware detection.
What distinguishes Chrome from other browsers?
The open-source Chrome project serves as the web browser’s foundation. Chromium was made compatible with Chrome’s sync service in subsequent years. Better web communication was made possible by new APIs, and Google officially stopped using Apple’s WebKit rendering engine. Design modifications and security enhancements have dominated recent updates.
Chromium, on the other hand, isn’t just for Chrome. Additionally, it is the foundation for numerous other web browsers, many of which you are likely already familiar with. Multiple browsers can use the same core functionality while adding their own distinctive features and designs thanks to the shared foundation. Therefore, the software probably does not come with your browser if it does not support Chromium.
Chrome is a collaborative effort Nickel in 2025 Chromium in 2025
The Chromium Projects are to be commended. Although many browsers are based on Chromium, not all Chromium browsers are created equal. Google Chrome, for instance, is proprietary. Google adds its own closed-source components to the Chromium code, rendering it no longer open source. Some browsers based on Chromium are proprietary, while others are entirely open source like,
- Proprietary
- Arc
- Ecosia Epic,
- Avast Silk from Amazon
- DuckDuckGo, and the
- Comodo Dragon
- Browser Microsoft Edge,
- Opera
- Puffin
- Internet from Samsung Sleipnir
- SRWare Iron
- Vivaldi Browser by UC Brave Free Software Dooble
- Falkon
- Konqueror
- Otter
- Qutebrowser
- Supermium
- Ungoogled-chromium
Google has been the owner of the Chromium project since the beginning, but it’s not alone in contributing to its codebase. Chromium has received contributions from Microsoft, Igalia, Yandex, Intel, Samsung, LG, Opera, and Vivaldi. Some of these contributions find their way to other Chromium-based browsers, making things better for everyone.
Is Chrome your preferred web browser?
“Can I just use Chromium as my everyday browser?” might be your question. because Chrome is currently based on Chromium. The response is categorically “yes.” In point of fact, the most recent Chromium code can be compiled into apps that can be installed using automated build systems. In the end, these Chromium builds are essentially simplified versions of Google Chrome.
Raw Chromium build
Although it is technically possible to use a raw Chromium build as your primary browser, there are significant drawbacks. One of the most noticeable differences is the absence of exclusive Google features and services. Chromium, for instance, lacks the account synchronization feature that ensures that bookmarks, history, passwords, and settings remain consistent across devices. Additionally, you would need to manually update Chrome because it does not support the automatic updates that keep Chrome secure and up to date with new features.
Another significant omission is support for specific digital rights management (DRM) technologies. This indicates that some streaming services, like Netflix, that require DRM may not function properly with a pure Chromium build.
If you want to live without Google, using the open-source core directly might be appealing to some people. However, there are better options in the list above for a Google-free browsing experience.
Android and Chromium
In a nutshell, Android and Chromium are the same ideas. Google and other businesses contributed to the Android Open Source Project, which is the foundation for One UI, OxygenOS, and Pixel UI. Yes, you can technically run pure Android on a phone, but it’s missing many critical elements. Therefore, although Chromium is certainly capable of being utilized, it is probably in your best interest to consider it more like a crude engine than a polished vehicle. It will save you a lot of time and make your daily browsing easier if you stick with a browser with all of its features. You get the benefits of Chromium’s solid foundation, along with the ease of use and extra features you’ve come to expect.
FAQS
1. Why do some browsers use Chromium as their foundation?
Chromium provides a ready-made, constantly evolving browser engine that developers can build on instead of starting from scratch. It includes core technologies like the Blink rendering engine and V8 JavaScript engine, which are already optimized for speed and compatibility. This allows companies to focus on adding their own features, privacy tools, or design improvements rather than rebuilding the basics of how a browser works.
2. Does Chromium automatically update itself like Google Chrome?
Unlike Google Chrome, the base Chromium project does not always include a built-in automatic update system. Whether it updates automatically depends on how it was packaged and distributed. Some operating systems handle updates through their own software managers, while standalone builds may require manual updates. Users should verify how updates are delivered in the specific version they install.
3. Can I sign into my Google account in Chromium?
Chromium does not include certain proprietary Google features by default. While you can still access Google services like Gmail or Drive through the browser, full Chrome-style account synchronization (bookmarks, passwords, history across devices) may not be enabled in standard Chromium builds. Some customized versions may reintroduce sync functionality, but it depends on the distributor.
4. Is Chromium only used for desktop browsers?
No. Although Chromium is widely known for powering desktop browsers like Microsoft Edge and Brave, its codebase is also adapted for mobile platforms and embedded systems. Many Android browsers rely on Chromium components, and some applications use it internally to display web content within software interfaces.
