Why the bridge is needed
- Native messaging Chromium-family browser workflows use native messaging through the desktop bridge.
- Local relay The bridge helps relay local sync state between the browser extension and your linked devices.
- Profile identity Browser profiles remain distinct so the same Chromium profile does not show its own tabs as remote tabs.
- No cloud account The core workflow remains local to your own devices on the same private network.
When you need it
You need the desktop bridge for Chromium-family browser workflows. Safari workflows use the iOS app and Safari extension, while Chromium-family browsers use the Chromium extension together with the desktop bridge.
If native messaging is not detected, reinstall the desktop bridge and restart the browser.