Mozilla has announced the closure of its "read it later" service, Pocket, which it acquired in 2017. The shutdown will take effect on July 8, 2025, though existing users will have until October 8, 2025, to export their saved content. According to Mozilla, the decision to close Pocket stems from an evolution in how people save and consume web content. They aim to reallocate resources towards enhancing Firefox with features that align better with modern browsing habits.
In their statement, Mozilla indicated a commitment to developing new solutions focused on providing users with greater choice and control while navigating online. Users can expect an increase in AI-powered features, which are set to be rolled out soon. Despite the shutdown of Pocket, users can still enjoy tailored story recommendations on Firefox’s New Tab page, which rely on popular Pocket saves.
In a related move, Mozilla is also shutting down Fakespot, an AI tool it acquired in 2023 that assessed online reviews for authenticity. Mozilla cited that, although the concept was appealing, it did not align with a sustainable business model for them.
This restructuring is viewed as part of Mozilla’s larger quest for revenue amid potential challenges to its existing funding, particularly from its search deal with Google. These changes signal a shift away from Mozilla’s original principles, sparking conversations among users about the company’s future direction.
For more information, you can visit these links: