Firefox Puts Users in Control with New One-Click AI Disablement Feature

Mozilla is empowering Firefox users with unprecedented control over artificial intelligence features integrated into the browser. Responding to user feedback and a growing demand for choice, the company is introducing a dedicated AI controls section in its settings, allowing users to easily disable or manage all current and future generative AI functionalities. This move underscores Mozilla's commitment to user agency in an increasingly AI-driven digital landscape.

Key Takeaways

• A new "AI Controls" section will be added to Firefox desktop settings.

• Users can opt-out of all generative AI features with a single toggle.

• Individual AI features can also be managed or disabled.

• The update is scheduled for release with Firefox 148 on February 24, 2026.

Enhanced User Control Over AI Features

Mozilla has announced a significant update to its Firefox desktop browser, set to roll out with version 148 on February 24, 2026. This update introduces a new "AI Controls" section within the browser's settings, providing users with a centralized hub to manage generative AI features. This includes a prominent "Block AI enhancements" toggle, which, when activated, will disable all current and upcoming AI functionalities. This ensures users can opt for a completely AI-free browsing experience if they choose.

Managing Individual AI Tools

Beyond the global disable option, users will also have the flexibility to manage individual AI features. At launch, these include:

• Translations: For browsing the web in preferred languages.

• Alt text in PDFs: Automatically generating accessibility descriptions for images within PDF documents.

• AI-enhanced tab grouping: Offering suggestions for related tabs and group names.

• Link previews: Displaying key information from a link before it's opened.

• AI chatbot in the sidebar: Integration with popular chatbots such as Anthropic Claude, OpenAI ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and Le Chat Mistral.

Users can choose to enable specific AI tools while disabling others, tailoring their browsing experience to their preferences.

Commitment to User Choice and Privacy

Ajit Varma, head of Firefox, emphasized that user choice is paramount as AI becomes more integrated into web browsers. "This lets you use Firefox without AI while we continue to build AI features for those who want them," Varma stated. This approach aligns with the vision of new CEO Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, who has stressed the importance of transparency, clear controls, and ensuring AI is always an option, not a mandate. The company aims to be a trusted software provider that respects user agency, ensuring that privacy, data usage, and AI functionalities are clear and understandable, with controls that are simple to use and modify at any time.

A Shift in Browser AI Strategy

This move by Mozilla comes at a time when other browser developers are also navigating user sentiment towards AI. While some platforms are aggressively integrating AI, Firefox's decision to offer a robust opt-out mechanism is seen as a refreshing stance. It acknowledges that not all users are enthusiastic about AI features and that many prioritize a fast, private, and streamlined browsing experience. By restoring choice, Firefox is reinforcing its identity as a browser that puts users first, potentially setting a new standard for AI integration in the browser market.

Sources

• Mozilla Adds One-Click Option to Disable Generative AI Features in Firefox, The Hacker News.

• AI controls are coming to Firefox, The Mozilla Blog.

• Mozilla adds AI kill switch to Firefox • The Register, The Register.

• Firefox will soon offer a way to block all of its generative AI features, Engadget.

• Mozilla Firefox 148 Lets You Shut Off AI Completely Thanks to Optional AI Features, Tech Times.