The Nebula Project
An open-source ecosystem of desktop applications built for modern hardware, controller-first interaction, and SteamOS compatibility.
What Is the Nebula Project?
Traditional desktop software assumes a mouse and keyboard. The Nebula Project exists to rethink that assumption.
Nebula is an umbrella initiative focused on building modern, controller-friendly desktop applications designed for SteamOS, Steam Deck, and living-room PCs. Rather than a single product, Nebula encompasses multiple applications unified by shared design systems, input handling conventions, and a commitment to performance and accessibility.
The project embodies an open-source mindset where experimentation, iteration, and community feedback drive development forward. Each Nebula application can stand alone, but together they form a cohesive ecosystem that proves controller-first desktop experiences are viable, practical, and compelling.
Core Principles
Controller-First UX
Designed from the ground up for gamepad and joystick input, not as an afterthought. Every interface element considers how users interact without a mouse.
SteamOS & Big Picture Native
Built to feel at home on SteamOS and compatible with Steam's Big Picture Mode. Respects the conventions and expectations of the SteamOS ecosystem.
Shared Design Systems
Common UI components, input handling patterns, and design language across all Nebula applications ensure consistency and reduce friction for users.
Performance & Lightweight
Respects hardware limitations and prioritizes responsive, efficient software. Resources matter, especially on handheld devices.
Accessibility
Built with diverse input methods and abilities in mind. Alternative interaction modes ensure software works for everyone.
Open & Experimental
Open-source development with transparent roadmaps. We believe in community involvement, feedback, and long-term iteration.
The Nebula Ecosystem
The Nebula Project consists of multiple applications and shared technologies, all working together to create a unified experience:
Nebula Browser
A desktop web browser purpose-built for SteamOS and Steam Deck. Nebula Browser delivers fast, responsive web browsing optimized for controller navigation and living-room displays.
- Controller-native navigation and input
- Big Picture friendly interface
- Performance focused on handheld hardware
- Open-source and community-driven
Status: Active development and public use.
Nebula Core
The shared libraries, UI components, and input systems that power all Nebula applications. Nebula Core provides the foundation for consistent, controller-friendly experiences across the ecosystem.
- Reusable UI component library
- Unified input handling layer
- Design system and theming
- Platform-specific optimizations
Status: In active development.
Future Tools
The roadmap includes editors, utilities, and experimental desktop software, all built on Nebula principles. These applications will expand the ecosystem beyond browsing into productivity and development.
- Text and code editors
- Media and content tools
- Developer utilities
- Community-contributed applications
Status: Planning and early exploration phase.
Nebula Browser & The Nebula Project
Nebula Browser is part of the Nebula Project, not the project itself.
Nebula Browser is the most mature and public-facing application in the Nebula ecosystem. It serves as both a practical, usable tool and a proving ground for ideas, design patterns, and technologies that power the broader initiative.
The Nebula Project is the wider initiative that serves as the umbrella under which Nebula Browser exists alongside shared libraries, future applications, and the collective vision for controller-friendly desktop computing.
Open Source & Community
The Nebula Project is built on open-source principles. Code is public, development is transparent, and contributions are welcomed from the community.
Whether you're interested in using Nebula applications, contributing code, reporting issues, or exploring ideas, there's a place for you in the ecosystem. We believe that open development, feedback, and experimentation lead to better software.