Mozilla to let Firefox users block generative AI features

Mozilla is scheduled to begin rolling out Firefox 148 on February 24, introducing a new settings section that allows users to block all current and future generative AI features. Within the desktop browser settings, users will find a dedicated AI controls section. This update gives users the option to turn on the Block AI enhancements toggle. When this setting is turned on, users will not see pop-ups or reminders to use existing or upcoming AI features. Alternatively, users can manage individual AI features. These include translations for browsing in preferred languages, alt text in PDFs, AI-enhanced tab grouping, link previews, and the sidebar AI chatbot, which allows users to access services from providers like Anthropic and OpenAI.

The update reflects a strategic focus on user autonomy under the leadership of Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, who was appointed as CEO in December. While Mozilla plans to invest in AI and add features to the browser, the company is committed to keeping these tools optional. According to Enzor-DeMeo, “AI should always be a choice — something people can easily turn off. People should know why a feature works the way it does and what value they get from it.” This approach addresses feedback from community members who want nothing to do with AI, as well as those who seek useful tools, balancing user choice as Mozilla adapts to a changing browser market.

Beyond browser-level settings, Mozilla is pursuing a broader corporate strategy focused on industry transparency. CNBC reported last week that Mozilla President Mark Surman is building a coalition of tech startups, developers, and public-interest technologists to make AI more trustworthy. Surman described this coalition as a rebel alliance aimed at checking the power of players like OpenAI and Anthropic. To support this effort, CNBC reported that Mozilla will deploy around $1.4 billion in reserves to fund tech businesses and nonprofits, including its own. The company is pursuing investments that promote AI transparency and push back against companies growing at historic speeds with limited oversight.

Why it matters

Mozilla is positioning itself as a privacy-focused alternative in the browser market, balancing the integration of optional AI tools with user autonomy and a well-funded push for industry transparency.