Vivaldi Browser: No AI, Just Your Way

Jon Stephenson von Tetzchner, co-founder of Vivaldi and originally Opera, is steering his current browser company away from artificial intelligence features. Vivaldi, with an estimated 4 million users, is committed to being powerful, personal, and private, with its latest update, Vivaldi 8.0, focusing on extensive customization. Tetzchner reports that approximately 95% of Vivaldi users are against the inclusion of AI functionalities.

Vivaldi's strategy aims to 'keep browsing human,' a direct contrast to competitors that Tetzchner believes are prioritizing AI development over core user features. He questions the utility of AI tools for tasks like tab organization, highlighting Vivaldi's existing tab stacks and tiling as effective, AI-free solutions. Tetzchner draws parallels between AI and cryptocurrency, noting Vivaldi’s decision to never integrate crypto wallets and viewing cryptocurrency as a 'scam.'

Privacy remains a cornerstone of Vivaldi's philosophy, with Tetzchner expressing concerns about big tech companies using AI to collect more personal data. He views AI integration as a potential next step in data collection practices, referencing the evolution of social media platforms. To counter this trend, Vivaldi includes Proton VPN with unlimited free data, positioning itself as an alternative for users disillusioned with big tech's data practices.

Tetzchner has personally adopted Linux, switching from Windows over concerns about data collection and AI integration, including features like Microsoft's Recall and automatic cloud syncing. He prefers using AI services via websites rather than having AI embedded directly into his operating system. Despite these concerns, Tetzchner remains optimistic about the future, believing a growing awareness of data privacy will drive users to make conscious choices, like using Vivaldi.