Thanks to the support of our many users, Floorp is growing rapidly. With so many new users joining us, we are increasingly receiving questions like, "What kind of project is Floorp?" and inquiries about our future direction.

What do we aim for, and what do we value? To ensure we are on the same page and to continue building this project together, we would like to share our philosophy and some facts about Floorp.

Summary ​

• Community-driven: We are a "running laboratory" developed not by a corporation, but by a community.
• AI is opt-in: While we explore AI features, they will always remain opt-in (disabled unless you enable them).
• Best tool for you: If you prioritize stability above all, please consider other browsers. If you enjoy "freedom," you are in the right place.

This summary omits some details. Please read below for the full context.

1. We Are a Community ​

At present, the Floorp Project is not a corporation; it is a project developed by a community-based voluntary organization.

The project is supported not just by core developers, but by many contributors who handle code reviews, documentation, translations, and user support. We view you, our users, not as customers, but as participants and contributors who drive this project forward.

The team is just a part of the community ​

By joining our Discord, you can follow development updates and connect with other users.

Please use Discord or GitHub Issues for bug reports and feature requests. While we cannot promise a reply to everyone, we gratefully read all feedback.

If you would like to support us financially, donations are accepted via GitHub Sponsors or Buy Me a Coffee. Your support helps cover server costs and sustains development.

2. We Seek "Possibility" Over "Stability" ​

We are a "running laboratory" focused on development and research.

In exchange for not prioritizing the rock-solid stability of enterprise products, we pursue the sharp features and customizability that only we can provide.

Reviewing features ​

Multi-functionality is Floorp's appeal, but we cannot add features blindly.

To ensure the project's sustainability, features that overlap with Mozilla's implementation, have high maintenance costs, or are deemed risky may be removed, integrated, or reviewed.

3. Stance on AI Features ​

Regarding the recent trend toward "Modern AI Browsers," our position is as follows:

Always optional ​

We neither fully endorse nor explicitly reject AI. We respect the choices of both users who want to use AI and those who do not.

Any AI features added to Floorp will be provided on an opt-in basis.

On a side note, it seems Mozilla is planning to add a setting to disable their implemented AI features globally.

Potential for AI Features ​

We constantly explore new possibilities, and AI technology is part of that. This means there is always a possibility that we will implement our own AI features (provided, of course, on an opt-in basis).

Floorp's core feature implementation is driven by a small team centered on the lead developer. To maintain a development pace that supports users worldwide, the assistance of AI tools (such as GitHub Copilot) is essential.

Of course, we use AI responsibly in our development. No user personal data is ever sent to AI tools, and all code generated by AI is checked by humans for safety and licensing compliance.

4. Funding and Sustainability ​

Floorp operates on donations. Thankfully, fixed costs such as server maintenance are fully covered, so there is no immediate threat to the project's survival.

However, expenses requiring massive funds, such as acquiring official DRM (Widevine) licenses, are currently impossible. We aim to build the freest browser possible within our available resources.

5. Coexistence of Privacy and the Web ​

Floorp features powerful tracking prevention derived from Firefox, but we emphasize the balance between privacy protection and the health of the web ecosystem.

Respecting creators' interests ​

We do not wish to harm the revenue of website operators and creators or impair the normal functioning of websites through strict default blocking.

Our default settings strive for a balance that respects user privacy without destroying the web ecosystem. Of course, users are free to change these settings at any time.

6. Finally: Choosing the Tool That Suits You Best ​

Did your expectations of Floorp match our policy?

We have honestly shared what we "can't do" or "won't do" because we want you to understand Floorp's characteristics correctly and make the most of them.

For example, if you prioritize absolute stability or total exclusion of AI features above all else, Floorp's unique characteristics might work against you. In that case, choosing another stable browser might provide a more comfortable web experience.

If you resonate with our experimental attitude and the freedom born from imperfection, and if you are willing to enjoy this journey with us, we would be delighted to have you continue to support and enjoy Floorp. Thank you for using Floorp!