Firefox just got a major redesign—here's what new

Firefox redesign.Credit: Jon Fingas / How-To Geek Published Sep 29, 2026, 11:41 AM EDT Jon is a seasoned journalist who has written definitive coverage of consumer tech at publications like Engadget, Android Authority, and BetaKit. He's an expert on making tech accessible ranging from mobile and PCs to emerging platforms like wearables. When he's not writing, he's going on adventures with ihis family and is an avid photographer. Sign in to your How-To Geek account The main alternative to Chrome just got one of its largest overhauls in recent memory. Mozilla has released a redesigned Firefox web browser for desktop and mobile that it says is easier to navigate while bringing back a much-loved feature. The revamped software has a more distinctive look with rounded elements, a cleaner layout, and updated colors. There are key functional interface improvements, however, including faster access to tab groups, vertical tabs, and split view. This also marks the return of the highly "missed" compact mode in Firefox, according to Mozilla. If you're using a small screen or just want to see more of a web page, this shrinks the interface as much as possible. Customization plays an important role. There are new themes and wallpapers in this release, and the developers are "exploring" further personalization, such as the interface shape. If you don't like the sameness of many browser interfaces, this might be a relief. Privacy has been a staple of Firefox, and the team claims the redesign brings those features "forward." It should be easier to find tools like private browsing (similar to Incognito in Chrome) and the built-in VPN. When can I use the new Firefox? You don't have to wait The reworked Firefox is available to download now for Linux, Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS. Mozilla notes that the changes will be most noticeable on the desktop, but that you'll see more consistency between platforms. Background updates will ensure that new features seem "integrated instead of bolted on," the developers add. Firefox was one of the first modern web browsers and helped end Internet Explorer's grip, but it has historically struggled to gain share from Chrome, Apple's Safari, and Chromium-based browsers like Microsoft Edge. The redesign theoretically helps Firefox stand out, particularly for people concerned about Chrome's approaches to privacy and AI.