Firefox 148 Introduces Granular AI Controls and Enhanced Security Features

Mozilla has released Firefox 148, featuring a comprehensive suite of user controls centered around AI functionality management. The standout addition is a system-wide 'AI kill switch' that allows users to completely disable browser-based artificial intelligence features. This responds to growing concerns about unsolicited AI interactions across software platforms.

The AI toggle, accessible via Settings > AI Controls, enables users to:

• Permanently block chatbot prompts and AI-generated content summaries
• Prevent automatic downloads of AI models to local devices
• Disable notifications promoting AI feature adoption
• Maintain this setting across future browser updates

For users seeking selective implementation, Firefox offers granular controls allowing specific AI utilities to remain active while blocking others. This permits continued use of privacy-focused features like on-device translation while disabling cloud-dependent services that may compromise data security.

Beyond AI management, Firefox 148 delivers significant privacy and security enhancements:

• Expanded update controls: Users can now opt-out of remote updates while minimizing data collection, configurable under Privacy & Settings > Firefox Data Collection
• Advanced XSS protection: Implementation of the Trusted Types API and Sanitizer API provides robust defenses against cross-site scripting attacks
• Accessibility improvements: Screen readers now correctly interpret mathematical formulas within PDF documents
• Platform expansion: Firefox Backup becomes available on Windows 10 systems
• Language support: Added translation capabilities for Vietnamese and Traditional Chinese

The update also introduces aesthetic customization through new tab wallpapers in container tabs and technical upgrades including Service Worker support for WebGPU, enabling next-generation web graphics applications.

This release reflects Mozilla's strategic positioning in the browser market, emphasizing user agency at a time when competitors increasingly embed AI by default. By establishing clear opt-out protocols before mainstream AI integration, Firefox distinguishes itself as privacy-focused alternative. The approach acknowledges both the potential benefits and user concerns surrounding AI, offering flexibility absent in many competing platforms.

For technical specifications and implementation details, consult the official Firefox 148 release notes.