Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Mozilla Add-on Policy Update: Streamlining Development

2025-06-24

Mozilla has updated its Add-on policies for addons.mozilla.org (AMO) to simplify the development process. Key changes include: lifting the ban on "closed group" extensions, allowing developers more flexibility; clarifying data transmission policies with updated terminology around data consent and control; no longer requiring privacy policies to be hosted on AMO, instead encouraging self-hosted links; adding a user scripts API policy specifying its use only within user script manager extensions; and updating source code submission guidelines to clarify dependency inclusion. These updates take effect August 4, 2025.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Development Add-ons Policy Update

Firefox 138: A Revamped Address Bar for Seamless Browsing

2025-05-24

Firefox 138 boasts a significantly upgraded address bar designed for enhanced speed and ease of use. Users can now easily switch between search engines, maintain visibility of their search queries, and utilize keywords like @bookmarks, @tabs, and @history for quick access to bookmarks, tabs, and history. Directly executing commands like 'clear history' is now possible from the address bar. Simplified URLs and clearer security indicators improve clarity. This update focuses on user experience and productivity, making Firefox a more powerful and intuitive browser.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Development Address Bar Browser Update

Firefox Defends Against Double Exploit at pwn2own

2025-05-18

At this year's pwn2own hacking competition, two teams targeted Firefox, but both failed to breach its sandbox. Mozilla responded swiftly, releasing updates within a day of the second exploit announcement, showcasing its robust security response and mature security practices. While the attacks had limited impact, Mozilla urges all users to update Firefox immediately. This event further validates Firefox's sandbox and highlights Mozilla's commitment to security.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Tech

Firefox Delivers Tab Groups Based on 4,500+ Community Requests

2025-04-29

Firefox's new tab groups feature is a direct result of over 4,500 user requests on Mozilla Connect. This highly requested feature allows users to group browser tabs for better organization and management of numerous open pages. The development process highlights the power of community feedback, with the Firefox team actively listening to user suggestions and iterating through beta testing. The final feature balances flexibility and ease of use. Looking ahead, Firefox is exploring AI-powered smart tab groups for even more efficient tab management.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Development Tab Groups Community Feedback

DOJ's Antitrust Proposal Could Kill Browser Competition

2025-03-12

The Department of Justice's proposed remedies in the U.S. v. Google case could inadvertently kill browser competition. The plan to ban all search payments to browser developers would severely harm smaller, independent browsers like Firefox, crucial for maintaining an open, innovative, and free web. Losing search revenue would make survival difficult, potentially leaving Google's Chromium as the only cross-platform browser engine and exacerbating the dominance of tech giants. Mozilla argues this won't solve search monopolies but harms consumers by reducing choice and weakening the internet ecosystem.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Tech google

Firefox Updates Terms of Use to Clarify Data Handling

2025-03-01

Mozilla updated Firefox's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice, addressing user concerns about data licensing. The revised terms more clearly explain how Mozilla handles user data, emphasizing that Mozilla does not "sell" user data in the typical sense. Mozilla clarifies that some jurisdictions have broad definitions of "selling," prompting the wording change to mitigate legal risks. While Mozilla shares some data with partners, measures are in place to protect user privacy, such as removing identifying information or aggregating data.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Tech

Firefox Adds Terms of Use and Updated Privacy Notice

2025-02-28

Mozilla is introducing Terms of Use and an updated Privacy Notice for Firefox for the first time. This move aims to increase transparency around how user data is handled, emphasizing user control. Mozilla clarifies that the new terms do not grant them ownership of user data or the right to use it beyond what's described in the Privacy Notice. Users can review default settings and adjust their data management at any time. This update will roll out to new users in early March and existing users later this year.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Development

Mozilla Restructures Leadership, Embraces the AI Era

2025-02-19

Mozilla announced a restructuring of its leadership to address challenges in financial growth and mission impact. To diversify, Mozilla is investing in privacy-respecting advertising, developing trustworthy open-source AI, and launching online fundraising campaigns. New leadership appointments hail from companies like Google, Twitter, and Uber, bringing a balance of business, technology, and public interest expertise. Mozilla aims to continue its fight for a better future through technology that prioritizes human needs.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Tech Leadership Restructuring

Proposed Google Antitrust Remedies Threaten Independent Browsers

2024-12-19

The US Department of Justice's proposed remedies in its antitrust case against Google could inadvertently harm independent browsers like Firefox by jeopardizing their revenue streams. This isn't just about one company; it threatens the future of the open web. While Google is Firefox's default search engine in the US, this is a non-exclusive agreement, and Firefox has always supported multiple search engine choices. Reducing the number of independent browsers diminishes search engine competition and harms consumer choice and innovation. The article urges the court to consider remedies that don't damage independent browsers and the open web.

(blog.mozilla.org)

Tech antitrust browser competition