Tor has released version 16.0a8 for the alpha channel. It brings important security updates from Firefox 152.0a1 beta, along with several other improvements.

The announcement comes directly from the official Tor Project blog.

Tor changelog.

Key changes in this release include:

  1. Firefox and GeckoView updated to 152.0a1: The core engine has been updated to the latest version from Mozilla.
  2. Tor updated to 0.4.9.11.
  3. OpenSSL updated to 3.5.7: This is a tool that is responsible for encryption.
  4. NoScript updated to 13.6.25.90301984.
  5. Multiple fixes for fingerprinting resistance and safer mode issues.
  6. Various Android-specific improvements and bug fixes.

Main changelog.

In addition to these major updates, the release also addresses several smaller issues. These include UI improvements for letterboxing and search, fixes for preferences and startup errors, and many platform-specific corrections for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Platform specific changes.

It’s worth noting that alpha versions like Tor Browser 16.0a8 are early test builds meant only for testing and feedback. They are more unstable than regular releases and can contain bugs that affect your experience. It’s only intended for testers and developers. If you want to download it, you can grab it from here.

As a reminder, Tor Browser Alphas are now based on Firefox’s Rapid Release (beta) channel instead of the Extended Support Release. This change, which started with the 16.0 series, aims to give testers quicker access to new features and allow more time to identify issues before they reach the stable version. However, it also means alpha releases may contain more bugs and could have a less predictable schedule.

Speaking of the stable version, developers have issued a critical security update for Tor recently. If you haven’t updated yet, it’s recommended that you do it immediately. More on that here.

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Sudhanshu K
129 Posts

I have been a consumer technology enthusiast for over 5 years. Thanks to my experience in software beta testing and product reviews, I've understood and learnt a lot about what bugs and issues bother people, and I spend time trying to simplify their solutions. I cover smartphones, software, social media, apps, AI, and most consumer tech gadgets. Actively pursuing a Computer Science bachelor’s degree. I'm mostly active on Twitter/X (@TechWhirlUlt), drop a DM or tag me if you want to share info or connect!