Origin Emerges as a GitHub Competitor
As dissatisfaction with GitHub's performance grows, Cursor has launched Origin, a new code-hosting platform designed to offer developers an alternative. Origin provides functionalities similar to GitHub, allowing for collaborative work on codebases, handling of pull requests, and repository storage. This launch comes as GitHub experiences frequent outages, prompting developers to explore new options.
Cursor, already known for its AI Code Editor, aims to expand its services by integrating "agent native" features into Origin and creating a broader app ecosystem to enhance coding efforts. This strategy seeks to attract developers seeking reliable and efficient tools.
Origin's Unique Features
Origin is designed to work seamlessly alongside GitHub, enabling users to connect their GitHub repositories and sync them with Cursor's platform. This interoperability allows developers to continue using GitHub while leveraging Origin's capabilities.

"Your GitHub repos can sit alongside the ones Cursor hosts," Cursor explains. "Connect GitHub to Cursor, pick your org, and you’ll see the repos you can sync."
— Cursor BlogCursor's approach allows developers to have the best of both worlds, using Origin's features while maintaining their existing GitHub workflows.
GitHub's Performance Challenges
GitHub's recent performance issues have been a concern for many developers. Most notably, the platform experienced a significant outage, with a nearly 20% error rate worldwide. Such problems have been persistent, with 257 outages reported over the past year, leading to frustration among its user base. As GitHub addresses these issues, alternative platforms like Origin are gaining attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Origin by Cursor?
Origin is a new code-hosting platform launched by Cursor to provide developers with an alternative to GitHub for collaborative coding and repository management.
How does Origin work with GitHub?
Origin is designed to be interoperable with GitHub, allowing developers to sync their GitHub repositories with Cursor's platform and use both seamlessly.
Why are developers seeking GitHub alternatives?
Developers are exploring alternatives due to GitHub's frequent outages and performance issues, which have disrupted workflows and caused frustration.
What are some features of Origin?
Origin offers collaborative code editing, pull request handling, and repository storage, with plans to add "agent native" features and a broader app ecosystem.
How many outages has GitHub experienced recently?
Over the past year, GitHub has experienced 257 outages, leading to concerns among its user base.
Originally reported by TechCrunch. Summarised and curated by European Purpose.