Iridium Browser for Windows

Privacy meets Chromium's power

Iridium Browser is a privacy-focused web browser anchored in the sturdy architecture of Chromium. This combination leads to reliable performance and a familiar interface for users of Chromium-based browsers. With its open-source nature, it ensures transparency and allows ongoing community auditing of its source code and build processes. Its default settings are tailored for enhanced privacy by stripping Google-specific services and tracking mechanisms from Chromium.

Iridium prioritizes user privacy with sensible defaults that disable or remove features known for potential tracking. These include turning off search prediction services, metrics uploads, and alternate error pages that communicate with Google servers. It also enforces the use of secure HTTPS connections wherever possible.

Uncompromising privacy, right out of the box

However, the browser does not include built-in ad-blocking, DNS-over-HTTPS, or anti-fingerprinting protections out of the box. Users who require these features can install privacy-focused extensions from the Chrome Web Store to supplement their browsing experience. Additionally, while Google Safe Browsing is enabled by default for protection against malicious sites, it can be disabled for those seeking maximum privacy.

Chromium's simplicity, Iridium's focus

Iridium retains Chromium’s familiar interface, making it easy to navigate for existing users of Chrome or other Chromium forks. While there are no additional customization options like themes, alternate tab layouts, or anti-fingerprinting levels, users benefit from Chromium’s built-in accessibility features, including support for screen readers and keyboard navigation.

Connectivity and compromises

Iridium is compatible with most Chromium-based extensions and allows installation directly from the Chrome Web Store. However, some Google-dependent features—such as Chrome Sync and DRM video playback (due to the lack of proprietary codecs like Widevine)—are not supported. The browser runs on multiple operating systems for PC, but there is no version for mobile devices. Updates are provided regularly, though users must manually check for and apply them.

Free and open-source

Iridium operates completely as a free and open-source project, without any hidden costs or integrated advertising. Its development is supported by the contributions of a small team and the wider open-source community. The project maintains transparency with publicly available source code and reproducible builds for verification.

Your privacy partner

Iridium Browser is a solid option for users seeking a Chromium-based browser that prioritizes privacy by default. Although it lacks built-in ad-blocking, DNS-over-HTTPS, and any anti-fingerprinting protections, its clean and Google-free browsing experience makes it an appealing choice. For privacy-conscious individuals who value transparency and open-source development, it presents a trustworthy alternative in the browser landscape.