Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

“Firefox Upgrade Brings iPadOS-Inspired Functionality to Android Foldables and Tablets”

# 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.

## **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.

## **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.

## **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.

## **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.

## **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.

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“Gemini Might Shortly Welcome a Fun and Established Google Search Function”

**Are You Feeling Fortunate? Unveiling the Fun Aspect of AI with Gemini’s Latest Update**

When was the last occasion you took a bold step, pressed a button, and allowed chance to dictate your next action? For years, Google Search’s renowned “I’m Feeling Lucky” button has served as a playful reminder of happy accidents, giving users the opportunity to bypass the search results and go directly to the top webpage. Now, this delightful feature is making its debut in the sphere of artificial intelligence, courtesy of Gemini, Google’s AI-driven chatbot. So, what implications does this hold for users, and how does it relate to the larger progress of AI? Let’s explore.

### **What Is “I’m Feeling Lucky”?**

For those not in the know, “I’m Feeling Lucky” is a feature that has been integral to Google Search since its inception. It traditionally permitted users to skip the results page and land straight on the highest-ranking result for their query. Although this could yield mixed results, it introduced an element of excitement and enjoyment to what is usually a straightforward online search.

As time progressed, Google broadened the functionality of this feature. Hitting “I’m Feeling Lucky” without a search term would lead users to amusing destinations, such as Google Doodles or specialized tools like Google Earth. It transitioned from a mere utility to a journey of exploration, motivating users to discover the secret treasures within Google’s ecosystem.

### **Gemini’s Interpretation of “I’m Feeling Lucky”**

Gemini, Google’s AI chatbot, is poised to implement its unique iteration of this feature. As revealed in a recent APK teardown of the Google app’s beta version, Gemini is to include an “I’m Feeling Lucky” button within its suggestions carousel. However, instead of sending users to a webpage, this button will trigger the generation of a random prompt for the AI to address. Envision this as a fun approach to uncovering Gemini’s capabilities in an unpredictable fashion.

For instance, pressing the button might prompt Gemini to propose setting a reminder using Google Tasks, crafting an email, or even initiating a lighthearted conversation. The aim is to highlight the wide array of tasks Gemini can undertake while infusing a sense of spontaneity into the user experience.

### **Why This Is Significant**

The integration of “I’m Feeling Lucky” into Gemini is more than just a nostalgic reference to Google’s legacy; it’s a strategic initiative to render AI more user-friendly and captivating. Here’s why it’s important:

1. **Uncovering AI’s Abilities**
Numerous users remain unaware of the extensive features available through AI chatbots like Gemini. By creating random prompts, the feature serves as a guided exploration, helping users discover tasks they might not have thought to request from an AI.

2. **Reducing Entry Barriers**
For some individuals, engaging with AI can seem daunting or overly formal. A light-hearted feature like “I’m Feeling Lucky” diminishes these barriers, transforming the interaction into more of a game than just a transaction.

3. **Promoting Innovation**
Randomized prompts motivate users to try different functions with the AI, leading to unforeseen discoveries and imaginative applications. This coincides with the broader movement toward making technology more user-friendly and adventurous.

4. **A Touch of Nostalgia**
By reintroducing a cherished feature from Google Search, Gemini connects with a sense of familiarity and assurance. It cleverly bridges the divide between traditional search mechanisms and the evolving landscape of AI assistants.

### **How It Operates**

The “I’m Feeling Lucky” button is expected to prominently feature within Gemini’s suggestions carousel, which was recently reinstated in the Google app beta. Unlike other choices in the carousel that might shift positions, this button will remain consistently available, encouraging users to take a risk and discover what Gemini can accomplish.

For example, one trial shared by Android Authority illustrated that the feature generated a prompt for Gemini to set a reminder using Google Tasks. Once that task was completed, Gemini suggested experimenting with its live voice function, further urging users to delve into its capabilities.

### **The Larger Context: AI and Enjoyment**

The rollout of “I’m Feeling Lucky” in Gemini embodies a significant trend in AI innovation: the effort to make these tools not only effective but also enjoyable to use. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our everyday lives, developers are seeking ways to humanize the interaction, introducing elements of surprise, creativity, and even humor.

This approach is in line with the notion that technology should be both beneficial and pleasurable. By embedding playful features, companies like Google aim to cultivate deeper emotional connections with their users, promoting loyalty and confidence.

### **What Lies Ahead?**

While the “I’m Feeling Lucky” feature is presently in beta and may not transition to the finalized version of Gemini, its prospective influence is unmistakable. It signifies a change in our engagement with AI, shifting from purely functional exchanges to a more exploratory and compelling experience.

Whether you’re an experienced AI user or a curious newcomer, this feature

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