Firefox adds AI kill switch for users who are sick and tired of AI-everything
Source: Mashable Tech
Introduction
Not a fan of AI? Tired of every app and device adding some sort of AI functionality?
Firefox has some good news for you. The popular web browser, developed by the non‑profit‑owned tech company Mozilla, has just rolled out a new update that includes an AI kill switch.
How to turn off AI features in Firefox
- Download the latest update, Firefox 148, which was released today.
- Open Settings → AI Controls.
- Toggle “Block AI Enhancements.”
This disables all AI features in Firefox, including:
- ChatGPT and other chatbots that appear in the sidebar
- AI‑powered link reviews
- Smart tab‑group suggestions
Look for the “AI kill switch” in the Settings menu. (Credit: Mozilla)
Background
Mozilla historically kept Firefox away from AI features. In December, the organization’s new CEO, Anthony Enzor‑DeMeo, announced that AI was coming to Firefox. The response from the user base was strong enough that Mozilla later pledged to create an “AI off‑switch” that would give users full control over AI features in the browser.
After today’s update, Mozilla appears to have delivered on that promise, offering an AI‑free version of its web browser.
Statement from Mozilla
Ajit Varma, Head of Firefox, told Mashable about the new feature:
“At a time when much of the industry is moving toward closed, AI‑driven ecosystems, we’re taking a different path, one that puts people, not platforms, in charge. We’ve heard clearly from our users: some who don’t want AI, while others want the ability to decide exactly how and when it shows up in their browser. AI controls are how we deliver on that commitment.”
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