Mozilla Adds One-Click Option to Disable Generative AI Features in Firefox

Mozilla has introduced a new controls section in Firefox desktop browser settings that allows users to completely turn off generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) features with a single click. The move comes as the company continues to integrate AI capabilities into its browser while emphasizing user choice and privacy.

Centralized AI Controls for Enhanced User Privacy

The new feature, announced Monday by Ajit Varma, head of Firefox, provides a single place to block current and future generative AI features in Firefox. Users can also review and manage individual AI features if they choose to use them, creating a flexible approach that lets people use Firefox without AI while the company continues to build AI features for those who want them.

"You can also review and manage individual AI features if you choose to use them," Varma explained. "This lets you use Firefox without AI while we continue to build AI features for those who want them."

What AI Features Can Be Controlled?

The AI controls will allow users to manage several settings individually:

• Translations - AI-powered language translation services
• Alt text in PDFs - Adding accessibility descriptions to images in PDF pages
• AI-enhanced tab grouping - Suggestions for related tabs and group names
• Link previews - Show key points before a link is opened
• AI chatbot in the sidebar - Using well-known chatbots like Anthropic Claude, OpenAI ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and Le Chat Mistral while navigating the web

One-Toggle Solution for Privacy-Conscious Users

For users who want to completely opt out of AI features, Mozilla has implemented a "Block AI enhancements" toggle. When activated, this setting prevents users from seeing pop-ups or reminders to use existing or upcoming AI features.

"If you don't want to use AI features from Firefox at all, you can turn on the Block AI enhancements toggle," Varma said. "When it's toggled on, you won't see pop-ups or reminders to use existing or upcoming AI features."

Part of Mozilla's Broader Privacy Strategy

The new AI controls align with Mozilla's recent strategic direction under new CEO Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, who emphasized that the company's focus will be on becoming a trusted software company that gives users agency in how its products work.

"Privacy, data use, and AI must be clear and understandable," Enzor-DeMeo stated. "Controls must be simple. AI should always be a choice – something people can easily turn off."

Release Timeline and Availability

The AI controls feature is expected to be rolled out with Firefox 148, scheduled for release on February 24, 2026. This update represents Mozilla's commitment to balancing innovation with user privacy and choice.

Mozilla first announced its plans to integrate AI into Firefox in November 2025, stating it would be fully opt-in and that the company would incorporate the technology while placing users in the driver's seat. The new controls section is a direct response to user feedback about maintaining control over AI features in their browsing experience.

Industry Context and User Choice

As more AI features are baked into web browsers, Mozilla emphasizes that user choice is crucial. The company believes in giving people control regardless of how they feel about the technology, positioning Firefox as a browser that respects user autonomy in an increasingly AI-driven digital landscape.

The introduction of these controls comes at a time when privacy concerns around AI are growing, and users are becoming more conscious about how their data is used by AI systems. Mozilla's approach of making AI features easily disableable could set a precedent for other browser vendors and software companies integrating AI capabilities.

The new AI controls section represents a significant step toward giving users more control over their browsing experience while still allowing Mozilla to innovate with AI features for those who want them. By making these controls easily accessible and understandable, Firefox continues to differentiate itself in the competitive browser market through its commitment to user privacy and choice.