While many major web browsers continue to push AI-powered features deeper into everyday usage, Mozilla is taking a different approach with Firefox. The company has announced that an upcoming update will introduce a new AI Control menu, allowing users to disable all AI features with a single switch, or fine-tune which AI tools they want to keep active.
This move is aimed squarely at users who value privacy and personal choice, especially those who prefer a browsing experience free from AI-driven suggestions or automated assistance.
One Central Menu for All AI Features
The new AI Control menu will be added to Firefox’s Settings page and is scheduled to roll out with the next update on February 24. This menu will act as a centralized hub for managing every AI-related function inside the browser.
Users will be able to control features such as built-in chatbots, AI-powered translation tools, automatic tab grouping suggestions, and link preview summaries. Notifications and AI recommendations can also be disabled entirely from this single location, removing the need to hunt through multiple settings pages.
Mozilla Responds to User Concerns
Over the past year, Firefox has experimented with several AI features, following trends set by browsers like Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome. These experiments included tools such as content summarization on mobile devices and internal projects that introduced AI-assisted browsing workflows.
However, when Mozilla publicly discussed its broader vision of Firefox as an AI-enabled browser, some users expressed concern and dissatisfaction. In response, Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, CEO of Mozilla, promised that Firefox would include a clear and accessible “kill switch” for AI.
According to Mozilla, freedom of choice is a core principle of Firefox. Allowing users to decide whether AI is present at all is seen as essential to maintaining long-term trust.
Granular Control Beyond a Simple On and Off
In addition to a global AI toggle, Firefox will also offer detailed customization options. Users can decide whether AI should assist with tasks such as generating image descriptions for PDF files or highlighting key points when hovering over links.
This level of control is being positioned as a major differentiator for Firefox, especially at a time when many competing browsers offer limited ways to opt out of AI-driven experiences.
Built Around Community Feedback
Ajit Varma, Vice President of Product at Firefox, explained that AI is reshaping the web, but user expectations vary widely. Some users want no interaction with AI at all, while others actively seek tools that improve productivity.
The new AI Control system is Mozilla’s response to this diversity, ensuring that Firefox can adapt to individual preferences rather than forcing a single vision of AI usage onto everyone.
Source: The Verge
