Dia AI is the newest product from The Browser Company, makers of Arc, which aims to reinvent web browsing by integrating a ChatGPT-like assistant directly into the address bar and tabs.
Introduction
Dia presents itself not as a conventional browser but as an AI-first context built on top of Chromium. With its “chat with your tabs” feature, users communicate with an assistant that knows your browsing context, providing summaries, writing assistance, and task automation, such as cart filling or emailing products, without switching websites. It’s built for macOS (M1+), invitation only, and mass appeal through a familiar interface, unlike the niche, design-forward Arc, while concentrating on intuitive AI integration.
AI‑First
Chrome‑Compatible
Contextual Browsing
Privacy‑Aware
Review
Dia AI is the newest product from The Browser Company, makers of Arc, which aims to reinvent web browsing by integrating a ChatGPT-like assistant directly into the address bar and tabs. Instead of changing apps or tabs, you ask your browser to summarize an article, compose an email, or compare tabs contextually. Dia is currently in beta and invite-only, with a simple interface that’s suitable for a wide range of users, way beyond tech geeks, though it remains a work in progress.
Features
In‑Built AI Assistant
Ask questions or request actions via the omnibox; assistant can summarize, compare tabs, draft emails, even automate multi‑step web tasks.
Context‑Aware Responses
Uses active tabs, browsing history (7-day opt-in), cookies to personalize replies.
Privacy & Local Encryption
Most data stays on‑device, cloud processing is minimal and encrypted.
Chromium Foundation
Familiar UI, cross‑site support, and compatibility with Chrome extensions.
Skills System
Customizable mini‑scripts for layouts or actions, similar to browser Siri shortcuts.
Best Suited for
Busy Professionals & Multitaskers
Juggle tasks between tabs, automate email composition, grab context quickly.
Students & Researchers
Summarize instantly, combine context, compose notes.
Content Creators
Compose copy, edit wording, analyze sources quickly.
Everyday Users
Automate product comparisons, translate in context, create to‑do lists, research counsel.
Privacy‑Focused Users
Local storage reduces third‑party sharing.
Strengths
AI is deeply embedded, not an add-on, so interactions are fluid and natural.
Chrome‑like interface maintains familiarity for mass users.
Robust privacy considerations with local encryption enabled by default.
“Skills” provide extensibility without coding.
Weakness
Browser is in early‑beta; lacks advanced features like tab groups, sidebar customization.
Dependency on AI means limited offline or non‑AI use.
Getting started with: step by step guide
Getting started with Dia is easy:
Step 1: Join Waitlist or Get Arc Invite
Go to the Dia website and apply for early access (Arc users can access directly). Only on macOS 14+ (M1+) currently.
Step 2: Install and Launch
Download and install like any Chromium browser.
Step 3: Get familiar with the AI Assistant
Invoke the omnibox or type in a tab. Experiment with commands such as:
- “Summarize this page.”
- “Compose an email based on these 3 cards.”
- “Show me a comparison of these things.”
Step 4: Configure Skills
Chat with Dia to determine the tone, writing style, and introduce “Skills” such as layout tweaks or automated functions.
Step 5: Control Data Privacy
Enable history feature for 7‑days to provide context. All data is local, encrypted, and stays there.
Step 6: Monitor Subscription Rollout
Paid level coming shortly (usage-based). Free level for casual users will stick around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dia free?
A: Yes, currently in limited beta with free access. A subscription tier (likely $5+/month) is planned.
Q: Do I need macOS?
A: Yes, supported on macOS 14+ with M1 chips. Other platforms TBD.
Q: Is my data private?
A: Much data remains local and encrypted. Only small, temporary data is transmitted for AI processing.
Pricing
TBD (free beta with usage caps; paid plans probably $5–hundreds/month based on usage).
Alternatives
Arc Browser
Design‑oriented, tab‑centric browser by same developers; more sophisticated UI but less AI integration.
Chrome with Gemini
Google's AI-integrated browser; wider OS support, shallower context depth.
Brave with Leo
Plug-in for AI available; browser-first model with developed privacy.
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Dia AI (Dia Browser)
Dia AI is the newest product from The Browser Company, makers of Arc, which aims to reinvent web browsing by integrating a ChatGPT-like assistant directly into the address bar and tabs.
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