The move follows recent comments from Mozilla's newly appointed CEO, Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, who stated that Firefox would evolve into a “modern AI browser,” expanding beyond its roots as a simple browser into a broader ecosystem of trusted software.

However, to address user concerns about AI integration, Mozilla has confirmed it will provide a straightforward way for users to opt out of these features entirely.

Firefox developer Jake Archibald said: “Something that hasn’t been made clear: Firefox will have an option to disable all AI features completely. We’ve been calling it the AI kill switch internally."

He emphasised that while the feature would be packaged under a less alarming name, Mozilla is taking the option seriously to maintain trust with its users.

In addition to the kill switch, all current and future AI features in Firefox will be opt-in, meaning users will need to choose to enable them actively. Archibald further clarified that this opt-in approach will be unambiguous: once the kill switch is activated, all AI elements will be removed, with no future interruptions or prompts.

With concerns over AI’s growing role in software, Mozilla’s decision aims to strike a balance between innovation and user autonomy. As long as AI remains optional, many long-time users, like the author, express no issue with its inclusion as long as it's not forced upon them.

Mozilla also confirmed that the “AI kill switch” will be implemented in Q1 2026, with further details expected in Firefox 147, slated for release on 13 January 2026. This release will also introduce support for the XDG Base Directory Specification.

Mozilla’s new CEO, Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, assured users on Reddit that Firefox would continue to prioritise user control as it adapts to technological changes.

"To be successful, Firefox should serve almost everyone... My job is not to ignore one group to serve another. It is to make Firefox work for everyone without losing its core values," he said.