Waterfox, a well-known alternative to Firefox, is taking a clear stance against AI. As Mozilla’s new direction to integrate AI into its browser has sparked quite a reaction, Waterfox’s decision might attract some shift in user loyalty.
In a recent blog post, lead developer Alex Kontos firmly stated that Waterfox won’t incorporate large language models (LLMs) anytime soon. This is a direct response to Mozilla CEO Anthony Enzor-DeMeo’s announcement that Firefox plans to evolve into a broader “modern AI browser,” which many users are unhappy about.
Feedback from the community has been strong. Humorously dubbed the “AI kill switch,” Mozilla assured users that they could opt out of any AI features entirely. However, the term “AI kill switch” certainly raised eyebrows, leading to mixed feelings about the approach.
Waterfox has become a favorite for many users who miss the flexibility of older Firefox extensions. It began as a 64-bit version of Firefox, when the original was still limited to 32-bit. Over time, it has adapted to user needs, providing a relaxed update schedule and maintaining compatibility with older add-ons.
Interestingly, many users began migrating to Waterfox after Mozilla dropped support for classic extensions, which frustrated a large segment of its user base. In fact, as of recent statistics, about 36% of former Firefox users report switching to alternatives that better preserve their existing tools and privacy.
The browser landscape is filled with options beyond just Waterfox. Alternatives like LibreWolf and Floorp cater to specific user preferences, but Waterfox remains popular for its balance of features and user control.
As technology evolves, users are more aware of the tools they use. With the trends indicating a shift towards prioritizing privacy and customization, Waterfox’s philosophy of a user-centered browser experience might just lead to a boost in its user community.
For more on user trends and privacy concerns in technology, check out the Pew Research Center.
