Mozilla’s Firefox, which first launched on November 9, 2004, is celebrating its upcoming 20th anniversary with the release of Firefox 132. This significant update not only introduces new features that enhance user experience but also reinforces the browser’s commitment to privacy and security. The evolution of Firefox, from its roots as a derivative of Netscape Navigator, is a testament to its adaptability and resilience in the ever-changing landscape of web browsing.
Among the notable updates in Firefox 132 is the newly implemented support for 4K video playback through major streaming services, utilizing Microsoft PlayReady for encrypted media. Initially available on select websites, this feature aims to provide users with superior video quality and reduced battery drain, thus improving the overall streaming experience. Additionally, Firefox has fortified its privacy measures. Users who enable “strict mode” will now benefit from comprehensive blocking of all third-party cookies, with a new maximum cookie lifetime set at 400 days. This adjustment aligns with Mozilla’s mission to protect users from invasive tracking practices.
In terms of cross-device functionality, Firefox 132 enhances synchronization capabilities. Users can now easily sync bookmarks, open tabs, and passwords between devices, accompanied by a new sidebar for managing synchronized tabs. Activating this sidebar requires a simple configuration change, further simplifying the browsing experience for users who operate across multiple platforms.
Security remains a top priority, and Mozilla has addressed a total of 11 vulnerabilities in this latest release. Among them are two high-risk vulnerabilities that could potentially allow malicious actors to compromise user systems. CVE-2024-10459, a use-after-free vulnerability, may allow for crashes and code execution, while CVE-2024-10458 raises concerns about authorization vulnerabilities between secure and insecure sites.
Alongside the main Firefox release, Mozilla has also updated its extended support release (ESR) versions, fixing multiple security vulnerabilities. The attention to security across its platforms highlights Mozilla’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding user data, making Firefox 132 a fitting precursor to its 20-year anniversary celebration.