Mozilla has unveiled an epic update of Firefox, which will enable users to switch off every artificial intelligence activity in the desktop browser. This move comes after a long time of user feedback that requested that the company better control the way AI tools look and behave in the browsing process. The new alternative will be released as Firefox version 148, which will be released on February 24.
The update has one setting named Block AI enhancements. This setting gives users the ability to turn off all current and future generative AI features from one place. Mozilla confirmed that this option will also stop notifications, prompts, or reminders related to AI features. Once enabled, the preference will remain active even after future browser updates.
New AI Controls
Mozilla stated that the new controls were designed to respect a wide range of user preferences. Some users want no interaction with AI tools, while others prefer selective access. The new AI controls panel inside Firefox settings reflects this balance by allowing full blocking or individual management of features.
The controls panel will list several AI-powered tools that already exist in Firefox. These include browser-based translations, image description generation inside PDF files, AI-assisted tab grouping with suggested names, link previews that summarize key points, and a sidebar that provides access to popular chatbots. Supported chat services include ChatGPT Claude, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and Mistral.
Mozilla explained that when the controls become available, the Block AI enhancements option will be turned off by default. Users who previously used certain AI features will see those marked as enabled. Features that were previously disabled will remain blocked. Any unused feature will be shown as being available. This will not compromise the current user preferences.
User Choice Focus
The Mozilla leadership stressed that the update is a manifestation of a larger philosophy based on user agency and transparency. Firefox head Ajit Varma said the company listened carefully to community feedback before building these controls. He stated that Mozilla remains committed to offering choice while making sure tools deliver clear value.
Mozilla’s new chief executive, Anthony Enzor DeMeo, echoed this view in earlier comments. He said that the use of artificial intelligence should always be clear and understandable. He also said that controls must be simple and that artificial intelligence should always remain optional within Firefox. These statements helped shape the final design of the new AI controls.
The company also confirmed that AI preferences can be changed at any time. Users are also at liberty to turn on or off separate tools according to their requirements. Mozilla is convinced that such flexibility will assist in keeping the trust intact and still aid innovation.
Rollout and Availability
The AI controls will initially be seen in Firefox Nightly, which is the trial release program where new features are tested. Mozilla plans to gather early feedback through Mozilla Connect, which is its official community discussion platform. Once this testing stage is done, the controls will be implemented for all desktop users later in the month of February.
Mozilla has made it clear that Firefox desktop versions are the ones to be affected by the change. In the future, similar options can be made for mobile versions, though no schedule was announced. The company continues to evaluate user sentiment as AI features expand across the web. The announcement places Mozilla among a small group of browser makers offering clear and centralized AI controls. At a time when many platforms introduce AI tools by default, Mozilla’s approach highlights its long-standing focus on user trust and control.