Mozilla is working on a new user interface for Firefox 57 called Photon. The most striking features of the new mock-up designs are the inclusion of rectangular tabs that replace round tabs, a new, new tab page, and a new, centred address bar. The address bar includes a three-dot menu at one end which contains several buttons to do various tasks including:
- Copy URL
- Email Link
- Save to Pocket (Mozilla recently acquired it)
- Set a Reminder
- Send to Device
- Screenshot
- Extension X
- Share
The new tab page appears to include Activity Stream, which is a feature being tested on the Test Pilot programme. The screenshot option in the three-dot menu is also being tested in the Test Pilot programme. Mozilla could be using the Test Pilot projects in order to test features now so that they can be smoothly rolled out with the Photon overhaul, rather than make it to Firefox any earlier.
The redesign represents the first overhaul since 2014 when Mozilla introduced Australis with its curvy tabs which drove stalwarts to collective anger. In November, hopefully, with the arrival of Firefox 57, those dissatisfied will be able to uninstall their tab-squarifier add-ons when Photon lands.
If everything goes to plan and nothing gets delayed, early testers should be able to get their hands on Photon when Firefox 57 enters the Aurora channel in August. Firefox 57 also happens to be the first release to only support Firefox web extensions, seeing many 'classic' add-ons become defunct.
To keep up with the latest features introduced in Firefox keep an eye on the Meet Firefox Next topic on the Neowin Forums.
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