Mozilla just threw down the gauntlet in the AI browser wars. The company announced AI Window for Firefox - a dedicated AI-powered browsing mode that lets users choose their own AI models, breaking from the locked-in approach of competitors. This marks Mozilla's biggest AI push yet as the independent browser fights to stay relevant against Chrome and Edge's AI integrations.
Mozilla just made its boldest AI move yet, and it's taking direct aim at how Google and Microsoft are locking users into their AI ecosystems. The company announced AI Window for Firefox - a dedicated browsing mode that includes an AI assistant and chatbot, but here's the kicker: you get to choose which AI model powers it.
The timing isn't coincidental. While Google pushes Gemini deeper into Chrome and Microsoft makes Copilot central to Edge, Mozilla is betting on user choice. "While others are building AI experiences that keep you locked in a conversational loop, we see a different path," the company wrote in its official blog post. "One where AI serves as a trusted companion, enhancing your browsing experience and guiding you outward to the broader web."
AI Window will become Firefox's third browsing experience alongside private and classic modes. The feature is currently in development "in the open" with user input, according to a Mozilla Connect forum post from Thursday. Users can already join the waitlist for updates.
This isn't Mozilla's first AI rodeo. In September, the company launched a "shake to summarize" feature that uses AI to generate webpage summaries on iPhone. But AI Window represents a much bigger strategic shift for the browser that's been steadily losing market share to Chrome's dominance.
The competitive landscape tells the story. Chrome commands roughly 65% of the desktop browser market, while Firefox sits at just 3%, according to StatCounter data. Meanwhile, both Google and Microsoft have been racing to embed AI throughout their browsing experiences. Chrome's recent updates include AI-powered tab organization and writing assistance, while Edge has integrated Copilot directly into the sidebar.
Mozilla's approach deliberately contrasts with these integrations. Instead of forcing users into a single AI ecosystem, Firefox users will apparently be able to select from multiple AI models - though the company hasn't revealed which models will be supported or how the selection process will work.
