TECHNOLOGY
Firefox 149 Introduces Free Built-In VPN and Split-Screen Browsing
Mozilla has exciting news! On March 17, 2026, they announced updates for Firefox, with Firefox 149 set to launch on March 24, 2026. This update brings several new features, including a free built-in VPN, split-screen browsing, and more!
Key Features of Firefox 149
- Free Built-In VPN
- Firefox 149 will include a free VPN (Virtual Private Network) feature. This VPN will help protect your online identity by hiding your IP address. You don’t need to download anything extra or pay a subscription.
- Initially, users in the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom will receive 50 GB of data each month through this service. Mozilla built the VPN themselves to ensure your privacy.
- Split-Screen Browsing
- The new split-screen feature lets you view two web pages side by side in the same window. This is very useful for comparing information or multitasking without needing to switch between tabs.
- Tab Notes
- Firefox will let you add notes to your open tabs. This means you can remember why you opened a tab in the first place. The notes stay with the tab, making it easier to keep organized.
- Smart Window
- Mozilla is introducing Smart Window, an AI assistant that helps you find quick information without leaving your current webpage. This feature will only be available if you choose to use it.
- Redesigned Settings
- The settings section of Firefox will have a new look for easier navigation. This update aims to make it more user-friendly.
- Visual Update and New Mascot
- Firefox will also get a visual refresh with updated themes and a new mascot named Kit to make the browser feel warmer and friendlier.
- Sanitizer API
- Firefox will be the first browser to include the Sanitizer API, which helps improve web security by blocking certain types of attacks right in the browser.
Why These Changes Matter
According to Ajit Varma, the head of Firefox, this is the most exciting time for Firefox in recent years. Mozilla is committed to making Firefox a better and more private browser. They want to make sure users have complete control over their online experience.
Summary
Firefox 149 is scheduled for release on March 24, 2026. It will include:
- A free built-in VPN for safe browsing,
- Split-screen viewing for better multitasking,
- Tab notes for organizing your browsing,
- An AI assistant called Smart Window to help with quick queries,
- A redesigned settings section and a fresh look for the browser.
With these new features, Mozilla aims to stand out in a market that is largely dominated by other browsers like Chrome, and they want to make browsing safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Don’t forget to check it out once it’s released!
