# Firefox’s Newest Update Defaults to Desktop Mode for Large-Screen Android Devices
In an important change that improves the web browsing experience on Android tablets and foldable devices, Mozilla has rolled out a long-awaited functionality in the recent update of Firefox for Android. Version 133 of the browser now automatically loads desktop sites on all big-screen Android devices, such as tablets and foldable smartphones. This enhancement positions Firefox as a fierce competitor for users desiring a powerful browsing experience on their Android gadgets, even rivaling Apple’s iPadOS in functionality.
## **Key Highlights**
– **Automatic Desktop Mode:** Firefox for Android version 133 now defaults to desktop mode for browsing on larger devices, including tablets and foldables. Users can toggle this feature under “Site settings” within the browser’s preferences.
– **A First Among Android Browsers:** Firefox is the first major Android browser to implement this feature across all big-screen devices, whereas Chrome restricts desktop mode to “premium” tablets and leaves out foldable phones.
– **Improved Privacy Features:** The update also includes privacy upgrades, such as hiding clipboard notifications for sensitive information in Private Browsing mode on devices running Android 13 or newer.
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## **Importance of This Update**
### **Competing with iPadOS**
Apple’s iPadOS has been widely acknowledged for its capacity to load desktop sites by default, offering a desktop-like browsing experience on iPads. This capability has significantly differentiated Apple in the tablet sector. With Firefox’s recent update, Android users can now experience a similar functionality, making foldable devices and tablets more suitable for productivity and web surfing.
In contrast to iPads that present themselves as macOS systems to web providers, Android devices have generally defaulted to mobile versions of websites, even on larger displays. This often led to an inferior experience, requiring users to manually switch to desktop mode for enhanced functionality. Firefox’s update removes this hassle, delivering an effortless browsing experience right from the start.
### **Gaining an Advantage Over Chrome**
Google Chrome, the leading browser on Android, has only supported desktop mode by default on “premium” tablets since 2023. However, this capability does not extend to foldable phones, including high-end models like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Firefox’s choice to set desktop mode as the default for all large-screen devices, independent of their price or specifications, distinguishes it from Chrome and makes it an appealing option for Android users.
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## **Functionality**
The newly added feature is activated automatically on devices with larger displays, like tablets and foldable phones. Users can adjust this setting by going to “Site settings” (previously “Site permissions”) found in the browser’s preferences. This adaptability allows users to tailor their browsing experience according to their preferences.
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## **Privacy Advancements**
Alongside the desktop mode feature, Firefox for Android v133 brings a privacy-oriented update. Content copied while in Private Browsing mode will be deemed “sensitive content.” On devices running Android 13 or later, clipboard notifications will be concealed to enhance user privacy. This modification reflects Mozilla’s commitment to ensuring a secure and private browsing journey.
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## **Consequences for Android Users**
The establishment of default desktop browsing in Firefox for Android marks a significant advancement for users of foldables and tablets. It resolves a persistent challenge for Android users who often faced mobile-optimized websites that didn’t fully leverage their larger screens. With this update, Firefox not only improves usability but also poses a challenge to Chrome’s tight grip on the Android browser landscape.
Additionally, the update highlights Mozilla’s commitment to inclusivity. By not confining the feature to high-end devices, Firefox guarantees that users across various Android devices can enjoy a desktop-like browsing experience.
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## **Final Thoughts**
Firefox’s latest update represents a remarkable advancement for Android users, especially those utilizing foldables and tablets. By enabling desktop mode browsing by default, Mozilla has successfully closed the gap between Android and iPadOS, delivering a more versatile and user-friendly browsing experience. Paired with its privacy enhancements, Firefox for Android v133 is set to become a leading choice for users in search of a powerful and secure browser on their larger devices.
As Android technology evolves, such features will be key in shaping user experiences. With Firefox taking the lead, it will be intriguing to observe how other browsers react to this initiative. For the moment, Android users can relish a browsing experience that better aligns with their devices’ capabilities, thanks to Firefox’s innovative vision.
