Mozilla to give Firefox users greater control over AI features

With the upcoming Firefox 148 release, Mozilla plans to introduce granular AI controls, allowing users to fully block or selectively enable artificial intelligence features, addressing growing concerns around privacy, clutter, and user choice.

Mozilla is preparing to roll out new controls that will allow Firefox users to decide how much artificial intelligence they want integrated into their browsing experience. The changes will debut with Firefox version 148, scheduled for release later this month, and mark a shift toward greater user choice as AI tools become more common in web browsers.

The company said the move responds to feedback from users who feel overwhelmed by automated features or are concerned about privacy and unwanted prompts. Rather than forcing a uniform experience, Mozilla aims to give users the flexibility to either opt out of AI entirely or pick only the tools they find useful.

Under the new system, Firefox users will be able to continue browsing without any AI-driven enhancements, or customise their browser with a limited set of features. Mozilla said these preferences will remain in place across updates unless users decide to change them manually.

Centralised AI controls in Firefox 148

Firefox 148 will introduce a dedicated “AI controls” section within the desktop browser’s settings. This dashboard will serve as a single location where users can view, manage, or disable AI-powered features available in the browser.

A prominent option called “Block AI enhancements” will allow users to switch off all current and future generative AI features at once. When enabled, Firefox will stop displaying AI-related prompts, suggestions, or automated tools, ensuring a fully non-AI browsing experience.

For those who prefer a more tailored approach, Mozilla will also allow individual AI features to be turned on or off independently. These include website translation tools, AI-generated alternative text for images in PDFs, smart tab grouping suggestions, link previews that summarise pages before opening, and an AI chatbot embedded in the sidebar. The chatbot will support multiple third-party services, giving users a choice of providers.

Continued investment in open AI alternatives

While expanding opt-out options, Mozilla is also stepping up its investment in artificial intelligence. The organisation recently said it plans to use part of its financial reserves to support open, transparent, and public-interest AI initiatives. More than $1.4 billion remains available for investments in developers, startups, and projects that prioritise user control and openness.

In 2026, Mozilla expects to deploy around $650 million across its broader portfolio. Most of that funding will support core products such as Firefox and Thunderbird, while the remainder will go toward AI-focused efforts through Mozilla Ventures, grants, fellowships, and initiatives like Mozilla.ai.

Mozilla said its dual approach reflects a belief that AI should be both optional and accountable, empowering users without compromising trust or choice.