Helium
Helium is a desktop web browser for macOS that focuses on private browsing, a minimal interface, and fewer distractions while using the web.
What is Helium?
Helium is a desktop web browser for macOS that helps you browse with a cleaner, more focused experience. It is developed by imput LLC and is built around privacy controls, content blocking, and a compact interface that keeps web pages front and center. On Mac, users can install Chromium extensions, organize browsing with vertical tabs and tab groups, and use split view or web app installs for everyday workflows. Helium also supports importing important data from another browser, which can make switching easier. It is designed for people who want a general-purpose browser with modern compatibility while reducing ads, trackers, and visual clutter during regular browsing.
Key features
- Block ads, trackers, third-party cookies, and cookie banners by default
- Install and use Chromium extensions
- Organize pages with vertical tabs, tab groups, and MRU tab switching
- Open sites in split view for side-by-side browsing
- Install supported websites as web apps
- Import important browsing data from another browser
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
Helium is a browser, so network access, local browsing storage, downloads, and optional update-related connections are consistent with its purpose. The publisher states that browsing data is stored locally and that crash reporting is optional, but any browser can still expose personal information through the sites you visit, installed extensions, downloaded files, and saved data. If you use Helium, review extension permissions carefully, keep automatic updates enabled if you rely on them, and only sign in to websites and services you trust.
Recommendation: Keep Helium if you use it as one of your web browsers or prefer its privacy and interface choices. If you no longer use it, removing the app will only affect your access to Helium-specific browser data and settings on this Mac unless you export or back up anything you want to keep first.
Common paths
/Applications/Helium.app
Cache paths
~/Library/Caches/net.imput.helium
Support paths
~/Library/Application Support/Helium
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/net.imput.helium.plist
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