Firefox 140 has been released, marking a significant update that focuses on refining existing features rather than introducing major new ones. This version introduces improvements primarily for regular users, but it also serves as the new Extended Support Release (ESR), providing enhanced functionality for those who prefer a more stable upgrade path.
Key Features in Firefox 140
1. Vertical Pinned Tab ResizingThe vertical tab layout, introduced earlier, now allows users to resize the pinned tabs section. Users can adjust the visibility of pinned tabs by dragging the divider in either icon or expanded mode.
2. Memory Management for Inactive TabsFirefox 140 includes a new feature that allows users to free up memory by unloading inactive tabs without closing them. This can be done manually from the context menu. When unloaded, these tabs remain in a dormant state until selected again, similar to a temporary bookmark.
3. Easier Custom Search EnginesAdding custom search engines has been simplified. Users can right-click on a search field of a supported site to add a new engine directly. There’s also an option to enter custom search engines through the settings.
4. Reduced Clutter in New Tab PageFor some users, descriptive text for recommended and sponsored stories on the New Tab page is no longer displayed. This change aims to reduce visual clutter while continuing to refine the overall look.
5. Streamlined TranslationsThe on-device translations for web pages now only translate visible content on the screen, improving speed and reducing resource consumption.
6. User-Defined Extension ManagementUsers can now remove the extensions menu shortcut from the toolbar if they do not have many add-ons installed, minimizing unnecessary visual elements.
Other Notable Changes:
- Arabic dictionary added for spellchecker.
- Pocket toolbar icon and New Tab integrations removed.
- Support added for the CookieStore API and Custom Highlight API.
- Security fixes as part of regular updates.
Firefox 140 ESR for Stability Seekers
Mozilla Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) offers a more conservative update approach, featuring one major release annually, complemented by ongoing security and bug fixes. Firefox 140 ESR includes features from previous updates, such as:
- Tab grouping and vertical tab layout.
- Improvements to translation features.
- Enhanced tracking protection options.
Downloading Firefox 140
If you’re using Ubuntu and have Firefox installed via the snap package, the update will be automatically applied in the background. Alternatively, Linux Mint users can update through the Mint Update tool. For new installations, options include installing via Snap, Flatpak, or obtaining a DEB package or a Linux binary directly from Mozilla’s website.
For more information about Mozilla Firefox and to access the latest releases, visit Firefox’s official page.