You can soon block all AI features on Firefox
What's the story
Mozilla has announced that its popular web browser, Firefox, will soon allow users to block all current and future generative artificial intelligence (AI) features. The move comes as part of the company's commitment to provide more control over user experience. The new feature will be available from Firefox version 148 onward, which is set to roll out on February 24.
User control
New 'AI controls' section in settings
The upcoming version of Firefox will introduce a new "AI controls" section in desktop browser settings. This will give users the option to block all AI enhancements with a single toggle. If enabled, this feature will prevent pop-ups or reminders for existing or future AI features from appearing on the browser.
Feature management
Managing individual AI features
The new AI controls in Firefox will also let users manage individual AI features. These include "Translations," which lets you browse in your preferred language, Alt text generation in PDFs for accessibility, and tab grouping suggestions with automatic group naming. Link previews with AI-generated summaries, and a sidebar-integrated AI chatbot service are also included.
Company stance
Mozilla's commitment to user choice
In a blog post, Mozilla reiterated its commitment to user choice. The company said, "AI is changing the web, and people want very different things from it." They added that they have heard from many who want nothing to do with AI and others who want genuinely useful AI tools. This feedback has led them to build these new controls for their users.