Mozilla Introduces Global Kill Switch for Firefox AI Capabilities


Mozilla has rolled out comprehensive AI controls in Firefox 148, launching February 24, 2026, allowing users to globally disable all generative AI features across the browser.

The update addresses growing user concerns about AI integration while maintaining optional AI functionality for those who want it.

Firefox 148 AI Control Features

The new AI controls section in desktop browser settings provides centralized management for current and future AI features.

Users can toggle a “Block AI enhancements” switch to disable all AI-powered capabilities globally, preventing pop-ups and feature reminders.

Block AI enhancements(source: Mozilla)

Alternatively, users can granularly manage individual AI features based on personal preferences.

FeatureFunctionDefault Status
TranslationsBrowse web in preferred languageOptional
Alt text in PDFsAccessibility descriptions for imagesOptional
AI-enhanced tab groupingRelated tabs and group name suggestionsOptional
Link previewsKey points display before opening linksOptional
AI chatbot sidebarIntegrated chatbot access (Claude, ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Mistral)Optional

Firefox AI controls persist across browser updates, maintaining user preferences without requiring reconfiguration.

The centralized management system allows users to modify settings at any time without affecting other browser functionality.

The implementation ensures that disabled AI features produce no user-facing prompts or notifications.

The global kill switch addresses cybersecurity concerns regarding data transmission to third-party AI services.

Disabling all AI features eliminates potential attack vectors associated with external API calls to generative AI platforms.

Users can prevent inadvertent data exposure to AI service providers through the centralized toggle mechanism.

AI controls will first appear in Firefox Nightly for early testing before the stable Firefox 148 release on February 24, 2026.

Mozilla is actively soliciting community feedback through Mozilla Connect regarding the AI control implementation and future enhancements.

Mozilla emphasizes choice as the primary philosophy behind Firefox AI controls, recognizing divergent user preferences regarding AI integration.

The implementation reflects Mozilla’s commitment to user agency in deciding how AI features interact with their browsing experience.

Whether users embrace or reject AI capabilities, Firefox provides granular control mechanisms to match individual preferences.

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