Tech Giants Join Forces for Chromium Browser Alliance Under Linux Foundation

A new collaboration to strengthen the development and innovation of Chromium-based browsers has been unveiled by the Linux Foundation. Named the “Supporters of Chromium-Based Browsers,” the alliance includes tech heavyweights like Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Opera, all aiming to bolster the open-source Chromium codebase.

A Unified Vision for Chromium Development

The alliance will serve as a neutral space for developers, software vendors, and the open-source community to contribute more effectively to Chromium-based projects. While the new group will operate under the Linux Foundation, existing Chromium projects will remain under the control of their respective developers.

According to the Linux Foundation, the group’s primary focus will be to “remove barriers to innovation, expand adoption, and provide necessary resources to ensure the ecosystem’s growth.”

Google’s Continued Investment

Google, a driving force behind the Chromium project, highlighted its significant contributions, claiming over 100,000 commits to the codebase in 2024 – representing 94% of total contributions. The company reaffirmed its commitment to the project, stating it has no plans to reduce its involvement.

As part of the initiative, Google called on its partners to increase their contributions to Chromium’s development. The company also praised the Linux Foundation’s leadership, citing its emphasis on open governance and community-driven development.

Support from Microsoft and Opera

Other founding members, including Microsoft and Opera, echoed their enthusiasm for the initiative. Microsoft pledged continued contributions to the Chromium codebase, focusing on enhancing its Edge browser and other Chromium-based projects. Similarly, Opera expressed optimism about playing a more active role in shaping Chromium’s development.

The Broader Chromium Ecosystem

Many popular browsers, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi, are built on the Chromium codebase. The ecosystem’s collective market share dwarfs that of non-Chromium browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari, which rely on distinct proprietary engines.

Challenges for Non-Chromium Browsers

The implications of this alliance for non-Chromium browsers remain uncertain. With increased collaboration and investment in Chromium, concerns are growing about how it could further concentrate market power in the hands of Chromium-based browsers.

For Mozilla, the stakes are particularly high. Firefox, powered by Mozilla’s proprietary Quantum/Gecko engine, relies heavily on funding from Google for its survival. As Chromium browsers strengthen their dominance, Firefox may face mounting pressure in an already competitive landscape.

A Milestone for Open Source

The creation of the Supporters of Chromium-Based Browsers alliance marks a significant step in fostering collaboration among some of the world’s leading tech companies. As the group takes shape, its impact on the browser ecosystem – and the competition between Chromium and non-Chromium browsers – will be closely watched.