Firefox is a popular web browser
A few days ago, the release of the new version of Firefox 143 was announced, bringing new features, improved security, and improved browsing. Along with this release, the Extended Support updates Firefox 140.3.0 and Firefox 115.28.0 were also released, intended for those using the ESR versions.
This new version of Firefox 143 fixes 16 security vulnerabilities, eight of which are related to memory management. These flaws could have been exploited through specially crafted pages, even leading to the execution of malicious code.
Main new features of Firefox 143
Among the most visible new features in Firefox 143 is the ability to pin tabs as shortcuts Permanently pin them to the top of the tab bar by simply dragging them. This offers a more convenient way to keep your most-used sites in view without having to resort to the menu. To unpin them, simply drag the shortcut back to the main tab area.
Another improvement intended for privacy is the option to automatically delete downloaded files during "Private Browsing" Once the window closes, the browser will display a final message allowing you to decide whether to keep or delete the files, providing greater control over the information downloaded in private sessions.
Security remains a priority for Mozilla, and in this release Fingerprint protection mode has been strengthenedParameters that could previously be used to identify users, such as locally installed fonts, are now replaced with constant values, thus reducing the risk of tracking.
Furthermore, when a website requests access to the camera, firefox 143 displays a preview in the confirmation dialog box, which helps verify that the correct device has been selected, especially on rigs with multiple cameras.
Smart features in the address bar
La address bar Firefox also received improvements in this version. Now is able to display relevant dates and events such as Mother's Day in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy. Contextual suggestions have also been integrated with stock market information, showing stock and value prices directly from the bar.
Firefox also incorporates the possibility of searching for images with Google Lens from the context menu, provided that the feature has been activated from the advanced settings in about:config.
Multimedia support and web applications on Windows
In the multimedia area, Firefox 143 adds support for xHE-AAC playback, an audio codec used in streaming services like Netflix. Currently, this feature is available on Windows 11 (22H2 and later), macOS, and Android 9 or higher.
In the case of Windows, the browser goes a step further in integration by allowing certain websites to function as web applications pinned to the taskbar, bringing the experience closer to that of native apps. Support for the Windows UI Automation API has also been implemented.
Developer tools and CSS improvements
Firefox 143 also introduces changes to the web developer tools. It is now possible disable automatic message grouping in the console, making debugging easier. The debugger also avoids unnecessary opening of additional tabs when switching between formatted and unformatted code.
In terms of compatibility with web standards, the CSS Grid sizing algorithm has been adjusted to align better with the specification. The elements now accept extended color definitions like rgb(200 200 200), and elements have been given greater freedom of customization in CSS with the introduction of the ::details-content pseudo-element.
Improvements in the Android version
The Android version of Firefox also benefits from this release. Among its new features is the ability to enable DNS over HTTPS (DoH) from the settings. Additionally, the download management interface has been revamped, simplifying its use on mobile devices.
Interested in knowing more about it, you can consult the release notes in the following link
How to install Firefox on Linux?
If you are already a Firefox user, you should know that you can easily update to the latest version accessing the configuration menu. Those with automatic updates enabled need not worry as they will receive the new version without manual intervention.
Alternatively, if you prefer not to wait for the automatic update, you can do it manually by going to Menu > Help > About Firefox. This will open a window showing the installed version and, if the feature is enabled, it will check for available updates.
For Ubuntu, Linux Mint and other derivatives users from Ubuntu, too It is possible to update Firefox through the official PPATo do this, open a terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:ubuntu-mozilla-security/ppa -y sudo apt-get update sudo apt install firefox
Another available installation option is via Flatpak. To use this method, you need to have Flatpak support on your system. Once enabled, you can install Firefox by running the following command in the terminal:
flatpak install flathub org.mozilla.firefox
As for those who already have the browser installed, it is enough to execute the following command to not only update Firefox, but also all its applications that are in Flatpak format:
flatpack update
In the case of those who prefer the use of Snap, the installation of the browser can be done by typing the following command:
sudo snap install firefox
And to update the applications that we have installed in Snap format, just type the following in the terminal:
sudo snap refresh