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Google, Microsoft, Opera, and the Linux Foundation have announced the creation of the Supporters of Chromium-Based Browsers Fund. The new initiative aims to support and finance projects related to the Chromium ecosystem.
Launched by Google in 2008, Chromium serves as the foundation for numerous popular browsers, including Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, and Brave. However, its development has largely remained under Google’s control, raising concerns about market monopolization.
The Linux Foundation will manage the fund, ensuring transparency and inclusivity. Coalition members believe that supporting Chromium-based browser developers will create a neutral space for collaboration.
Microsoft emphasized that the initiative promotes "open governance," while Google pledged to continue investing significantly in Chromium’s infrastructure development.
A Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) will be formed to oversee the fund’s operations and drive its initiatives. While new browsers can be hosted under Linux Foundation management, existing projects will remain under their current owners’ control.
The fund’s launch comes amid antitrust proceedings against Google in the U.S. In 2024, regulators demanded that Google sell Chrome, while the company offered to revoke exclusive deals that set Google Search as the default engine in other browsers.
Experts believe this initiative could help reduce antitrust pressure on Google.
A more open governance model for Chromium could address concerns over the company’s excessive control of the browser ecosystem.
By funding the project, the tech industry hopes to enhance developer support, foster innovation in web browsers, and provide users with greater choice.
(This translation was generated automatically.)
