Firefox 157 swaps its interface for a modernized design

Firefox 157 gets a new modernized design and brings back compact mode. The update brings privacy and performance improvements. Released on September 29, 2026.

The new interface includes updated icons, colors and themes. Compact mode has been reintroduced, allowing users to adjust the browser for smaller screens. Firefox 157 also includes a theme manager and the ability to pin shortcuts to the home page. The release offers performance improvements, such as AV1 hardware-accelerated decoding in WebRTC video calls. In addition, it is possible to turn off artificial intelligence features in the browser. The interface is consistent between desktop and mobile, with a modernized design. The new version represents one of the browser's biggest visual updates in years.

Firefox 157 swaps its interface for a modernized design — Image: blog.mozilla.org

Comparison

Firefox 157 × Chrome 123

Comparison
Item	Firefox 157	Chrome 123
Design	New modernized design with icons, colors and themes…	Modernized design with new colors and icons
Privacy	Option to disable artificial intelligence features…	Additional privacy options

New design and performance optimization in Firefox 157

The theme manager lets you pin shortcuts to the home page, making it quick to reach essential tools. Compact mode returns with adjustments for smaller screens, making browsing more efficient on mobile devices. This reduces system resource usage and keeps HDR videos running smoothly. Synchronization between video and audio at different speeds has also been optimized, ensuring a more natural experience for users.

The new interface modernizes the design, brings back compact mode and prioritizes rounded elements on screens. The redesign seeks to align the browser with modern interface trends while preserving the brand's identity. The new version reinforces Firefox's position as an alternative to Chrome, with a focus on privacy and efficiency.

The option to disable AI depends on the user's settings, which may limit the experience for some. The design change reflects the browser's ongoing evolution, which had already been gaining new features such as Split View and the new built-in VPN. Firefox 157 is available for download on all operating systems, including desktop and mobile.