Firefox is going the other way – (AI) control in your hands
Mozilla is taking an unconventional direction, emphasizing choice and control.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an inevitable part of the Internet, and recently, browsers have been implementing agent-based AI functions that can perform some tasks without human intervention. However, not all users agree with these changes, and some are still skeptical of these functionalities. Mozilla, which owns the browser, will offer a solution to this: to abandon all AI features.
The user will be able to choose
AI features in the most popular browsers are presented as convenience: text summaries, sidebars for conversations or automatic suggestions change the user’s options when searching for information. However, additional functionalities, concerns about data security or “avoiding” technological news pose additional difficulties for some users.
Mozilla says it has taken this into account, and Firefox 148, released on February 24, will have expanded desktop settings. They will include an AI controls section, where you can block existing and future AI features in the browser with the click of a button.
As stated in the published announcement, browser developers will allow you to control these features and block them all or select only some of them as needed.
An unconventional solution to regain control
The main message of this Firefox solution is that it puts control back in the hands of the user. Instead of a level playing field for everyone, the browser will allow everyone to choose according to their individual needs.
In the broader context of the technology market, this is an opposite decision and an unconventional change so far. The platform will step back a bit from the intense competition for consumer attention in the field of AI.
On the other hand, in a highly competitive environment, Mozilla is clearly looking for ways to differentiate itself and strengthen its business direction. Such a decision could become a long-term strategy to attract users who value choice, privacy, and a more peaceful technological experience.
What does this mean for the consumer?
For the average user, this Firefox solution means more choice and less coercion. The browser will no longer be a place where new AI features are automatically implemented for everyone, regardless of needs or habits. Instead, people will be able to decide for themselves whether they need additional automation or whether basic browsing capabilities are enough.
Below you will see how to block AI features in the Firefox browser:
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