Mozilla Firefox, which originally launched on November 9, 2004, is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary. This milestone is significant not just for its longevity but also for its evolution as a modern browser. With the recent release of Firefox 132, the browser continues to innovate and improve its features, marking this anniversary with a meaningful update that focuses on user experience and privacy.
The standout feature in Firefox 132 is the introduction of 4K video playback for major streaming services. This functionality, powered by Microsoft PlayReady, allows users to enjoy videos at a minimum of 1080p quality, with 4K support expected to roll out gradually. This enhancement promises not only to improve video quality but also to reduce battery consumption during streaming, providing users with a more efficient viewing experience.
Celebrate 20 Years of Mozilla Firefox with Major Update Featuring 4K Playback and Enhanced Privacy
Privacy improvements are another highlight of the Firefox 132 update. Users who activate “strict mode” will benefit from enhanced tracking protection, as all third-party cookies are now blocked. The maximum duration for cookie storage has been reduced to 400 days, and the updated “Copy link without website tracking” feature now filters out additional tracking parameters. These measures reflect Mozilla’s ongoing commitment to protecting user data and enhancing online privacy.
For users who access Firefox across multiple devices, the new synchronization features will be particularly useful. Firefox 132 allows for the synchronization of bookmarks, open tabs, and passwords, making it easier to maintain continuity in browsing activities. The introduction of a sidebar for synchronized tabs enables users to manage their tabs more effectively, including the ability to close tabs on other devices through a straightforward context menu.
Finally, the security aspect of Firefox 132 is noteworthy, as it addresses a total of 11 vulnerabilities, including two classified as high risk. These vulnerabilities could potentially allow attackers to execute harmful code.
In addition to the main Firefox release, Mozilla has also updated its Firefox ESR version and the Tor Browser, ensuring that security flaws are patched across its various platforms. This comprehensive approach underscores Mozilla’s dedication to providing a safe browsing environment for its users as it approaches this significant anniversary.
