The Browser Company has consistently stated that it will not be discontinuing the Arc browser as it shifts its focus to the new AI-driven Dia browser. However, the company will not be introducing new features for Arc. In a recent blog post, CEO Josh Miller elaborated on this decision and outlined the path forward.
The Arc browser represented a significant reimagining of what web browsers could be and has garnered a loyal user base, myself included. Yet, many of the reasons Miller cites for halting Arc’s development—such as its complexity for mainstream users, occasional speed and stability issues (which are indeed valid), and the company’s desire to refocus on AI—were previously mentioned in October.
Why not integrate Dia into Arc? One key reason Miller highlights is security. Arc has experienced at least one major security incident; a vulnerability was uncovered last year that allowed attackers to inject arbitrary code into a user’s browser session simply by knowing their user ID. Since then, The Browser Company has expanded its security engineering team from one to five members. This increased focus is crucial as AI agents—autonomous systems designed to execute tasks—become more widespread.
Regarding the future of Arc and its users, Miller reassures that the browser will not vanish. It will continue to receive security updates and bug fixes, and it will also be adjusted in line with updates to its Chromium foundation. However, the company does not intend to open-source or sell Arc, as it is built not only on Chromium but also on a unique infrastructure that supports Dia. While Miller expresses interest in making the browser available in the future, he emphasized that this won’t happen until it no longer poses a risk to the team or shareholders.
The Browser Company has yet to respond to inquiries from The Verge about whether its expanded security team is also focusing on enhancing Arc’s security. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.
