Mozilla is developing a built-in AI assistant for Firefox that will be introduced as a third browsing mode along with normal and private tabs. They’re calling it “Window AI”.
Details are still scarce. Based on Mozilla’s official announcement on Thursday (13)th), this looks like a more in-depth implementation than the existing sidebar that provides access to third-party chatbots (ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, etc.). The post emphasizes that the feature will be opt-in and that the user “is in control.”
There is a waiting list to try out this feature and a Mozilla Forums thread that invites people to help “shape” the initiative.
It’s safe to say that the people who volunteered to “shape” this initiative want it out and buried. Of the 52 responses at the time of writing, *all* rejected the idea and asked Mozilla to stop including AI features in Firefox.
I don’t know whether the negative reactions reflect the majority of Firefox users or are just a noisy minority. After all, Mozilla probably has the clearest view of the entire user base.
What I find strange is its decision to position itself as just another AI-enabled web browser, doing battle with bigger techs and better-funded startups whose users are less hostile (and sometimes enthusiastic) about adding AI to web browsing.
It seems Mozilla is trying to wedge itself between those who reject AI and those who want generative-AI features in the browser – trying to please everyone – as this excerpt from the post shows:
We see a lot of promise in AI browser features that make your online experience smoother, more useful, and free from everyday interruptions that break your flow. But browsers built by AI companies ask you to make a tough choice – either use AI all the time or don’t use it at all.
We’re focused on building the best browser, which means recognizing that everyone’s needs are different. For some people, AI is part of everyday life. For others, it is useful only occasionally. And many people are simply curious about what it has to offer, but are unsure where to start.
Regardless of your choice, with Firefox, you’re in control.
Those who are unhappy have another option: use an AI-free Firefox fork like LibreWolf, WaterFox, or Zen Browser.