Mozilla Introduces New AI Controls in Firefox, Including an Option to Turn AI Off Completely

Mozilla is giving Firefox users a new way to opt out of generative AI features entirely, introducing a setting that can block all current and future AI enhancements in the browser. Starting with Firefox 148, rolling out on February 24, desktop users will see a new AI controls section in settings, including a “Block AI enhancements” toggle for those who don’t want AI tools surfaced at all.

The change is Mozilla’s latest effort to make AI optional rather than unavoidable. When the block setting is enabled, users won’t see pop-ups or reminders tied to Firefox’s existing or upcoming AI features. For those who want more flexibility, Firefox will also allow people to manage AI tools individually instead of turning everything off.

Mozilla says the controls will cover features such as Translations, AI-generated alt text in PDFs, AI-enhanced tab grouping, link previews, and the browser’s sidebar chatbot. The chatbot supports services including Anthropic Claude, ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and Le Chat Mistral.

In a blog post, Mozilla framed the update as a response to sharply different user expectations. The company said it has heard from people who want nothing to do with AI in their browsing experience, alongside others who want AI tools that are genuinely useful — leading Firefox to focus on choice and transparency.

The move comes after Mozilla appointed Anthony Enzor-DeMeo as CEO in December. Enzor-DeMeo said at the time that Mozilla would continue investing in AI features, but stressed they should remain optional and clearly explained to users.

Firefox’s opt-out approach also arrives as the browser market becomes more competitive again, with challengers such as Perplexity, Arc, OpenAI, and Opera pushing new AI-driven experiences. While Mozilla plans to keep building AI tools, it is also emphasizing user control and oversight. CNBC recently reported that Mozilla President Mark Surman is working to support more trustworthy AI development through investments and partnerships, backed by roughly $1.4 billion in reserves.

For Firefox users, the update offers a simple choice: embrace AI-powered browsing features, customize them selectively, or shut them off altogether.

This analysis is based on reporting from TechCrunch.

Image courtesy of Unsplash.

This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.