Zen Browser Offers Arc-Like Experience as Arc Nears Shutdown
The Verge says Zen Browser offers Arc-like interface ideas without AI features, though it lacks DRM video support.
According to the report, Zen copies the best parts of Arc's interface. The two browsers are almost visually indistinguishable, with launcher-like pinned sites, a left-side tab bar, siloed spaces and mods that let users customize the UI. Zen keeps those interface ideas but removes what The Verge described as Arc's bloat, including a sidebar agent that prompts users to let it handle tasks. The report said the reviewer was not worried about Zen training an LLM on browsing activity.
The report described Zen as a free, open-source project that relies on volunteers and donations and markets itself as privacy-focused. According to The Verge, Arc felt as if user data was an integral part of its business plan, while Zen does not create that impression. The report also noted that no internet activity is truly private.
Zen supports Firefox extensions, and The Verge said that, in its experience, the browser handles extensions better than Arc does, even though both browsers' interfaces can prevent some extensions from displaying properly. Zen also offers workarounds, the report said.
The report highlighted features intended to keep users focused. Links open in a "glance" view, a temporary pop-over tab for window shopping or light research, and can be moved to a full tab with one click. Pressing Command+T or Ctrl+T opens a floating bar that can launch a new tab, switch to an existing tab, run a search through a chosen search engine or trigger an extension.
Zen is not without drawbacks. The Verge reported that it cannot currently play DRM-protected video, so Netflix, Spotify, HBO, Disney+ and other services do not work in the browser. The Zen team is seeking a Widevine license from Google, according to the report. The reviewer uses Chrome to watch movies and also turns to Chrome because Firefox, Zen's base, has limited Web MIDI support.
The report said Zen has improved substantially since its buggy early builds. It added that users who rely on Arc's AI features may prefer Dia, while those who liked Arc's interface but not its overall approach may find Zen a better fit.