10.10.2024

Orion Browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

It also offers a built-in ad blocker, tracker blocker, and vertical tab display, all with Safari-level optimization. dlja-macos-i-ios-podderzhivaet-rasshirenija-chrome-i-firefox-be9e686.jpg” alt=”Orion browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions” />

Daria Gromova

Lifehacker Author

Orion browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

Enthusiasts have launched beta testing of the Orion browser. Like Safari, it runs on the WebKit engine and natively supports technologies like Keychain, Online Text, and iCloud sync.

 Orion browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

On first launch, it prompts you to download Safari data: browsing history, recent tabs, reading list, favorites, settings, and even Keychain passwords. Thus, you can painlessly change the browser in just a few clicks. In the settings menu, a large number of compatible search engines catch your eye: if you wish, you can choose at least Yandex, at least DuckDuckGo. it is noteworthy that there is no standard search engine here at all: you need to select it manually during the first search.

Orion Browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

The main feature of Orion is support for Chrome and Firefox extensions: you can download them directly from their respective stores. The browser also offers options for blocking ads, trackers, and pop-ups. It also provides an enhanced compatibility mode for secure or problematic sites: it mimics “clean” Safari, enables cookies and disables all extensions.

Orion Browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

In terms of interface and speed, Orion is mostly similar to Safari (which is not surprising, given the common engine). But there are also differences. For example, there is no tab preview, which can be either a plus or a minus depending on the user's preferences.

Those who do not like the horizontal display of tabs will like the vertical mode – and the width of the panel here can be adjusted according to to your own discretion. This looks especially good on wide monitors.

Orion Browser for macOS and iOS supports Chrome and Firefox extensions

The browser is now available for download in beta -mode on Mac (models with Intel and Apple M processors are supported), as well as on iOS and iPadOS via TestFlight. Support for other platforms is expected to be added at a later date. Unfortunately, the browser itself and its settings are currently only available in English.