Firefox AMA: AI opt-outs, true dark mode in apps, multiple profiles, split-screen view and more

Mozilla’s Firefox leadership team gathered on Reddit for their October 2025 AMA, where they fielded questions about everything from AI integration to interface updates. The session brought together eight key figures from the company, including CTO Bobby Holley, VP of Product Ajit Varma, and Firefox General Manager Anthony Enzor-DeMeo.

One recurring theme throughout the discussion was Mozilla’s approach to AI features. When asked about users who find AI tools unhelpful, Varma acknowledged the mixed reception and promised better control options. “We understand that some people like AI features and others really dislike them,” he explained. The team plans to simplify this choice by the first half of next year, making it easier for users to either use AI or avoid it completely. Varma stressed that unlike other browsers, Firefox won’t force these features on anyone.

The privacy angle came up repeatedly when discussing AI implementation. Varma pointed out that Firefox processes data locally whenever possible, keeping information on users’ devices rather than sending it to cloud servers. Features like link previews and translations use local models, though the team admits local AI has limitations that sometimes require cloud-based solutions.

Interface improvements got plenty of attention during the AMA. Raja Jacob, Head of UX, confirmed that Firefox aims to bring consistency between iOS and Android versions, though iOS restrictions make this challenging. More exciting for many users: true black dark mode is being considered for upcoming design updates. Jacob encouraged users to share feedback about OLED-friendly interfaces directly on Reddit.

Multiple profiles are arriving next week, according to Varma, letting users separate work and personal browsing. Split-screen view is actively in development, though VP of Engineering Vicky Chin didn’t commit to a timeline. The team is also exploring workspaces, a feature that provides an extra organization layer beyond tab groups.

Questions about Firefox’s relationship with Google came up, particularly around Manifest V3. Holley made it clear that Firefox sees no practical security benefit in Chrome’s DeclarativeNetRequest approach compared to WebRequest. The company remains committed to supporting powerful ad blockers like uBlock Origin, which Chrome is phasing out.

When users asked about gaining ground against Chromium browsers, Varma outlined a strategy focused on choice and control. He emphasized Firefox’s independence, noting that the browser can build features in areas where big tech companies might feel uncomfortable. The AI chatbot feature, which lets users pick their preferred LLM or skip AI entirely, exemplifies this approach.

Security concerns weren’t ignored. When asked about site isolation and sandboxing compared to Chrome, Holley explained that Firefox already has site isolation, though the implementation differs slightly. The desktop sandbox is comparable to Chromium’s, with ongoing work to tighten specific areas. Android’s isolated process feature is getting particular attention as a known gap from Chrome.

The Library interface, covering history, downloads, and bookmarks, hasn’t kept pace with Firefox’s recent design updates. Jacob admitted it feels dated compared to newer features like the revamped sidebar and profile system. The team recognizes it needs a visual and UX refresh to match the rest of Firefox.

Customization is getting a boost with custom app icons rolling out to Android next week. Jacob confirmed the feature is part of Firefox’s effort to bring more personality into the browser. The hand-drawn fox icon proved particularly popular during the discussion, with users requesting it for desktop platforms. Jacob noted the team is thinking about similar options for other platforms as they continue refreshing Firefox’s look.

Engineering VP Andrew Overholt shared that WebGPU support for macOS is available in Nightly builds and will ship when ready. Taskbar tabs just rolled out on Windows, but the team needs to study usage patterns before committing to macOS support. The platform differences require careful consideration of how features translate across operating systems.

Revenue diversification came up as a concern, especially with Mozilla recently shutting down Pocket and Fakespot. General Manager Enzor-DeMeo explained that while search partnerships with Google and others remain central, the company sees new opportunities in AI and new tab experiences. Mozilla is exploring different types of partnerships, including widgets and feeds, while an entirely separate product division works on future offerings.

That was pretty much all the important details shared in the AMA. In short, Firefox is doubling down on user choice and privacy while working on practical improvements like split-screen views, better dark mode options, and smoother cross-platform experiences. The team seems genuine about not forcing AI on users who don’t want it, and they’re actively working on interface updates that have been a long time coming.

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