Firefox 149 Beta Brings Split-View Mode and HTTP/3 Improvements

Mozilla has released Firefox 149 Beta, bringing several notable improvements to the popular web browser. The most significant addition for end-users is the new split-view mode, which is now enabled by default after successful testing in Firefox Nightly over the past month.

Split-view mode allows users to view two web pages side-by-side within the same browser window, eliminating the need for multiple windows or tabs when comparing content or working with multiple sources simultaneously. This feature has been highly requested by power users and researchers who frequently need to reference multiple sources while working.

The split-view functionality can be activated through the browser's menu or by dragging a tab to the edge of the window. Users can adjust the divider between the two views to allocate screen space according to their preferences. This feature is particularly useful for:

• Comparing product specifications across different websites
• Researching topics while taking notes
• Monitoring multiple information sources simultaneously
• Side-by-side code comparison when debugging web applications

Beyond the split-view mode, Firefox 149 Beta includes several technical improvements. The browser now offers better robustness for HTTP/3 upload performance, particularly on unstable network connections. This enhancement should result in more reliable file uploads and streaming content delivery, even when network conditions fluctuate.

HTTP/3, the latest version of the HTTP protocol that runs over QUIC instead of TCP, has been gradually rolling out across browsers and web services. Firefox's improved handling of HTTP/3 uploads addresses one of the remaining pain points for users on less stable connections, such as mobile networks or public Wi-Fi.

The beta release also introduces a new Reporting API, which provides developers with enhanced capabilities for collecting and managing error reports and usage metrics. This API offers more granular control over what data is collected and how it's reported, giving both developers and privacy-conscious users better transparency and control.

Mozilla is encouraging users to test the Firefox 149 Beta to help identify any issues before the official release next month. The beta period is crucial for ensuring that features like split-view mode work smoothly across different hardware configurations and use cases.

Users interested in trying the new features can download Firefox 149 Beta from Firefox.com. As with all beta releases, it's recommended to use this version alongside your primary browser rather than as a complete replacement, especially for mission-critical tasks.

If the beta testing period goes well, Mozilla plans to release Firefox 149.0 as the stable version next month, bringing split-view mode and other improvements to all users. The company has been focusing on adding practical features that enhance productivity while maintaining Firefox's reputation for privacy and performance.