Kagi has released a new beta of Orion for Linux, a WebKitGTK-based port of its popular browser for macOS and iOS.
The Orion for Linux v0.4.1 beta builds upon its predecessor, the v0.3.0 public beta released in May. This latest version introduces additional features found in the macOS and iOS versions and enhances existing functionalities to create a more robust browsing experience.
New Features in Orion for Linux v0.4.1
Among the new additions is a working private browsing feature. Users can now enjoy a more discreet browsing experience without leaving traces. Additionally, the new beta includes a functional download manager, albeit minimalistic, which marks a significant improvement over the initial release. The introduction of a toolbar overflow menu allows users to hide buttons while keeping them accessible, enhancing the user interface without cluttering the workspace.
Not familiar with Orion? If you’re new to this browser, it might be helpful to check out previous articles explaining its purpose and features. This particular piece focuses solely on the enhancements brought about in version 0.4.1.
Another exciting feature making its debut in this beta is the link preview functionality. Users can hover over links to preview the content without needing to open a new tab. Unlike the AI-generated summaries some browsers offer, this is reminiscent of macOS’s ‘Quick Look’ feature and provides a straightforward snapshot of the linked webpage.
Currently, there’s no keyboard shortcut available for link previews, as macOS users can enjoy, but right-clicking on a link brings up the option in the context menu. The preview itself doesn’t allow resizing but includes a button for opening the link in a new tab for further exploration.
Programmable Buttons and Local Sync
The new beta also introduces the Programmable Buttons feature, empowering users to create custom buttons on the toolbar that execute specific tasks or apply conditions to web pages, mimicking the functionality of bookmarklets. Users have the flexibility to add, edit, or import these actions, which can either be displayed on the toolbar or tucked away in the overflow menu. For inspiration, Orion’s GitHub repository features a collection of open-source programmable buttons, making it easier for users to enhance their browser functionality.
Another highly anticipated addition in this beta is local sync support. While the iOS and macOS versions of Orion make use of iCloud to sync bookmarks, tabs, and other data, users can now export their essential data as a file and import it into another build. Though Kagi plans to roll out a dedicated cloud sync backend in the future, this local sync feature provides welcome flexibility for users.
Additional Enhancements
In this update, users will find a wealth of other enhancements and improvements. A new option allows for opening web pages directly from the Internet Archive, providing a fallback if a website fails to load. Additionally, users can now add custom search engines to their address bar for greater convenience.
- Enhanced browser shortcuts, including a basic F5 reload function.
- Revamped sidebar, now labeled ‘Tab Groups’ instead of ‘Windows’.
- New “Never for This Site” option in the password manager, enhancing security control.
- Bookmark HTML import feature for Chrome and Firefox users.
- A new ‘Edit website text’ tool for easier content management.
- Working website settings for managing web fonts, cookies, and more.
- Low Power Mode is now available, which suspends tabs after a period of inactivity.
Kagi states that this build significantly enhances the browser’s overall stability and performance, with a more polished and refined interface. Intelligent Tracking Prevention is also now enabled for all WebKit network sessions, offering users additional privacy.
Looking Ahead
Despite these advancements, it’s important to note that many of Orion’s innovative features, such as the ability to erase web page elements, are still in the works or not yet ported over. Also, critical functionalities like rearranging toolbar icons and support for Chrome extensions remain under development.
How to Install Orion’s Linux Beta
Installing Orion for Linux is straightforward as it is available on all major distributions via Flatpak, although it is not listed on Flathub. Kagi has provided its own Flatpak repository to facilitate access.
For those who already have Flatpak set up on Ubuntu, add the new Orion browser Flatpak repository by entering the following command:
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists orion-beta https://flatpak.orionbrowser.com/orion-beta.flatpakrepo
Next, install Orion for Linux (beta) with this command:
flatpak install orion-beta com.kagi.Orion
Since Orion is a GTK4/libadwaita application, it requires the GNOME 50 runtime. If this runtime is not already installed on your system, it will automatically download alongside the first app you install that requires it.
To keep your installation up to date with future beta releases, you can run the following command:
flatpak update com.kagi.Orion
Alternatively, users can manage updates for Flatpak applications through GUI package managers like GNOME Software or Bazaar, both of which are included in the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS repositories.
A Friendly Reminder about Beta Software
While Kagi suggests that this beta version ‘makes Orion feel much closer to a daily driver,’ prospective users should remember that it is still under development. This means it’s essential to approach it with caution, as it may have rough edges and occasional crashes. Only install the beta version if you’re comfortable with potential issues. Feedback about the browser can be submitted through the Orion feedback site.