Mozilla is adding a global kill switch to disable all AI features in Firefox browser

Mozilla Firefox

• Mozilla Firefox to add central AI controls in version 148 for user privacy
• Users can disable all AI features with one master switch in browser settings.
• New controls let users manage or block specific AI tools like translation and chatbots.

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Generative AI features are being added quickly across multiple apps and browsers, without any warning or notifications, with users forced to accept these AI tools amid privacy concerns. However, Mozilla has now provided its users more control regarding this matter, as the company has announced that it will soon introduce a new, centralised AI controls section in its Firefox browser, including a single master switch, which would be able to disable all current AI features enabled in the browsers and block future ones as well.

Mozilla Firefox new AI kill switch: Here’s how it works

Through a recent blog post, Mozilla has explained that its upcoming Firefox 148 version will add a dedicated ‘AI controls’ section within the desktop browser’s settings. This section will act as a central hub, allowing users to review, manage, or disable AI-powered features offered in Firefox. If a Firefox user does not want any AI involvement, they can enable a ‘Block AI enhancements’ toggle. Once turned on, all AI features will not work altogether, including prompts, reminders, or suggestions related to AI tools in the browser.

Mozilla stated: “Starting with Firefox 148, which rolls out on Feb. 24, you’ll find a new AI controls section within the desktop browser settings. It provides a single place to block current and future generative AI features in Firefox. You can also review and manage individual AI features if you choose to use them. This lets you use Firefox without AI while we continue to build AI features for those who want them.”

These new AI controls will allow Firefox users to manage individual features, including page translation, automatic alt text generation for images in PDFs, tab grouping suggestions, link previews, and installing an AI chatbot in the sidebar. This setup allows users to keep specific AI tools they find useful, while disabling others they do not want.