New Firefox 68 released: add-on manager update and video ad blocker

Mozilla presented the release version of the Firefox 68 browser for desktop operating systems, as well as for Android. This build belongs to the long-term support (ESR) branches, which means that updates to it will be released throughout the year.

Browser add-ons

Among the main innovations of the version, it is worth noting the updated and rewritten add-on manager, which is now based on HTML and JavaScript. From now on, each add-on has received separate tabs with descriptions, settings, etc. To activate add-ons, not buttons are now used, but the context menu, and disabled extensions are now separated from active ones.

In addition, there was a section with recommendations. They are formed based on the extensions used, browser settings, and so on. There is also a button to contact the developers of themes and add-ons. This allows you to inform them about unauthorized activity, problems, and so on.  

Blocking video ads and tracking trackers

The browser has learned to block video ads that automatically play when you open articles and links. In addition, Firefox will better protect users from ad trackers.

At the same time, the strict blocking mode disables not only third-party cookies and tracking systems, but even JavaScript elements that can mine cryptocurrency or spy on users.

New address bar and dark reading mode

Firefox 68 has a new Quantum Bar address bar. Externally and functionally, it is almost identical to the old Awesome Bar address bar, but "under the hood" it is completely different. In particular, the developers abandoned XUL/XBL in favor of the Web API and added support for WebExtensions. In addition, the line has become faster and more responsive.

And there was also a full-fledged dark theme for the reading mode. In this case, all elements of the window and panel are repainted in the required color. Previously, this only affected areas with text content.

Numerous improvements for developers have also been added. At the same time, we note that the mobile version of Firefox 68 will be the last. The Firefox 69 release, which is expected on September 3rd, as well as subsequent ones, will be presented as fixes for the ESR branch number 68. Instead, there will be a new browser, a pre-release under the name Firefox Preview already available. By the way, corrective update 1.0.1 was published today.

Source: 3dnews.ru