I switched from Chrome to Firefox on Android; extensions are the reason I'm staying
Chrome on mobile doesn't need to be this bad
Switching from Chrome to Firefox on Android was driven by the browser's lack of crucial extensions, according to a user's experience. Google's recent security updates have fortified Chrome against phishing, social engineering, notification abuse, and various scams, making users ten times safer. However, the browser, while more secure than ever, no longer offers the extensions that keep users like the author from switching to Firefox.
The user recently discovered Sideraven, a Firefox fork that completely changed their perspective on what a mobile browser should look like. This vertical tab layout frees up screen space, makes multiple tabs easier to use, and better suits the large screens of modern smartphones. While Chrome's vertical tabs for desktop are exceptional, implementing them on mobile would take the browser to the next level.
Despite the absence of extensions on mobile, the user still relies on a core set on the desktop version daily. Ad-blocker extensions are particularly important, as ads are ubiquitous in Chrome, making it frustrating to browse without them. Firefox's extension list, which includes ad-blockers, dark-mode viewers, text-to-speech tools, tracking removers, and more, provides similar security tools, although they might not be as comprehensive.
Beyond extensions, the user also pointed out Chrome's performance benefits over Firefox, though the difference is minimal. The user's browsing experience on Firefox is cleaner, and the absence of ads is a welcome change. The author believes Chrome needs only a couple of updates – vertical tabs and extension support – to become great.
Privacy concerns with Firefox, raised by its expanded terms of service, are still opt-in or opt-out for most features, with the ability to disable AI-powered features for those who prefer. This experience has made the author realize how backward the Chrome mobile app is, prompting a return to Firefox or even exploring forks like Sideraven.
Written by urgent.news from Android Police's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
