Mozilla Firefox 148.0 b4
Firefox gives you a fast, private browser backed by Mozilla - a non-profit organization that fights for your online rights rather than your data.
Unlike Chrome, Edge, and other Chromium-based browsers that share underlying code controlled by Google, Firefox uses its own Gecko rendering engine.
This independence means Mozilla can implement privacy features without corporate advertising interests influencing decisions.
The browser blocks third-party tracking cookies by default through Enhanced Tracking Protection.
Every page load shows exactly how many trackers Firefox stopped, giving you visible proof that your browsing habits stay private.
Social media trackers, fingerprinting scripts, and cryptominers get blocked automatically without requiring extensions or configuration.
Local AI Translation Without Cloud Services
Firefox 147 introduces compressed local translation models using Zstandard compression.
Your documents and web pages translate entirely on your device - no text ever leaves your computer.
Other browsers send everything to cloud servers for translation, creating privacy risks and requiring internet connections.
Firefox handles translations locally, protecting sensitive content while working offline.
Agentic Browsing Support
The latest release updates default automation preferences for better AI agent compatibility.
Browser automation tools and agentic workflows run more efficiently with reduced steps and fewer points where automated processes might stall.
Developers building AI-powered browsing solutions benefit from improved WebDriver support and streamlined automation paths.
Tab Management and Interface Updates
Horizontal tabs now feature slightly rounded corners that match vertical tab styling. Buttons, text inputs, and the address bar received visual consistency updates throughout the interface. These refinements create a more polished appearance while maintaining the familiar Firefox layout users expect.
The Extensions button displays a helpful message when no add-ons are installed, linking directly to the Firefox Add-ons store. This guides new users toward discovering extensions that enhance their browsing experience.
Cross-Platform Availability
Firefox runs on Windows 11, Windows 10, macOS, and 64-bit Linux distributions. Note that Firefox 147 drops support for 32-bit Linux systems - users on older hardware should upgrade to 64-bit installations for continued updates and security patches.
Privacy-Focused Alternatives
For users wanting even stronger privacy protections, Tor Browser routes all traffic through the Tor network for anonymous browsing.
If you prefer Firefox's engine with additional customization, Floorp Browser builds on Firefox with workspace management, web panels, and advanced UI modifications.
Users who need Chromium compatibility for specific websites can try Brave Browser, which blocks ads and trackers by default while supporting Chrome extensions.
For maximum customization within the Chromium ecosystem, Vivaldi Browser offers built-in email, calendar, and extensive interface personalization without tracking.
Browser Alternatives
Google Chrome remains the most widely used browser with excellent web compatibility, though it collects significant user data. Microsoft Edge integrates Copilot AI assistance and works seamlessly with Windows features.
For AI-focused browsing, ChatGPT Atlas provides direct AI access without browser overhead.
Complementary Tools
Enhance your Firefox experience with browser-integrated download management. Free Download Manager accelerates downloads and integrates with Firefox for seamless file handling.
For video downloads, yt-dlp works alongside Firefox to save streaming content from hundreds of sites.
Media playback improves with proper codec support. Install K-Lite Codec Pack for system-wide video compatibility, or use VLC Media Player as a standalone solution that plays any format Firefox might download.
Version 147.0.1 Changelog
- Dropped 32-bit Linux support - 64-bit recommended for continued updates
- Updated horizontal tabs with rounded corners matching vertical tab design
- Improved Extensions button messaging for users without add-ons installed
- Compressed local translation models with Zstandard for smaller downloads
- Enhanced agentic browsing automation preferences
- Fixed Three.js website compatibility issues
- Fixed Windows 10 desktop launcher problems on older versions
- Resolved Rogers billing iframe display errors
- Fixed Web Developer Tools HAR export functionality
- Various security patches
Download Firefox and browse the web on your terms - fast, private, and independent.
