In 2022,
Arc Browser was termed as the "Chrome replacement" that people wanted. Three years later, The Browser Company has discontinued the app, all because it wants to build a new browser, Dia.
Josh Miller, the CEO of The Browser Company, has published a
Letter to Arc members, explaining why the app is being shuttered. Arc was created as an Internet Computer that was designed for work, personal life, as an all-in-one browser. Miller says that Arc failed due to a "novelty tax" problem, it did not manage to retain users primarily because it differed too much from a traditional browser. Its interface was different, and the whole workflow was unique, users were not willing to put in the effort to re-learn how to browse, or even to switch to another browser. When I wrote about it 2 years ago, I pointed out that Arc has a learning curve, and that it could deter users. Apparently, the browser's key features like Spaces, Live Folders, Calendar Preview were barely used.
Miller says that his company began working on Dia, a simpler browser. It will get rid of Arc's bloat, and use familiar interfaces. Dia is also touted as a lightweight, snappy, responsive app. The most important thing here is that Dia will integrate an AI. Who would have guessed?
arc.net
browsercompany.substack.com
www.ghacks.net
