Firefox Gains Market Share, Preps 'Porn Mode'

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Against the backdrop of an expanding market share, open-source powerhouse Mozilla is preparing to unveil an adult-friendly version of its web browser, Firefox.

Although Microsoft's Internet Explorer continues to command the vast majority of the market, 20 percent of all web surfers now turn to Firefox, according to market researchers at Net Applications, an online tracking firm.

As for the so-called "porn mode," it's called Minefield, and test versions of the new browser version have leaked online. In addition, Mozilla provides a formal development forum for webmasters interested in test-driving the new feature.

When a user activates Minefield, Firefox will automatically close down and store all currently open browser windows and tabs before opening up a new, secure window for private surfing. Users can then surf web while scant trace of their online activity.

But tech writer Kevin Purdy pointed out one flaw with Minefield – it might be too secure.

"The actual browsing experience is pretty similar to standard Firefox use, although a pet peeve of mine — also present in Google Chrome and Safari — is that the address bar in 'private' mode doesn't remember where you've been while you're browsing around in your secure little shell," he wrote for Lifehacker.com. "Perhaps some users like that idea — that nobody who grabs the keyboard while your back is turned can suss out your activity — but I like the convenience of auto-fill addresses."

The new version of Firefox is tentatively slated for an official release later this year or in early 2009.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Equentus Media Names Livie Blainn Content Curator, Bree Austin COO

Equentus Media has named Livie Blainn as its new curator for content and marketing, and Bree Austin as its COO.

MsSexySaigon Makes Studio Debut in Latest From MYLF

Creator MsSexySaigon has made her studio debut in the latest scene from MYLF.

Peach Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Peach stars with husband Dan, Hollywood Cash, and Sheem in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY.

Penelope Woods Toplines Pat Myne's 'Anal for Days 3'

Penelope Woods headlines director Pat Myne's "Anal for Days 3," from Evil Angel.

XBIZ Amsterdam 2025 Show Schedule Announced

XBIZ is pleased to announce the release of the full show schedule for XBIZ Amsterdam 2025, set to take place Sept. 2-4.

Pjur, Magasin du Nord Partner for 'Flex Area' Campaign

Pjur and retail brand Magasin du Nord have partnered for the wellness brand’s Flex Area campaign.

Kheper Releases New 'Think Like a Slut' Party Game

Kheper Games has released the new "Think Like a Slut" party game.

AEBN Publishes Report on DP Trends

AEBN has published a report on DP and extreme penetration categories from its straight and gay theaters.

Kasey Kei Stars in Latest From Transfixed

Kasey Kei stars with Olivia Jay in the latest release from Transfixed, titled "You’re Worth The Wait."

Adult Time Debuts Bree Mills Drama 'Hard Stop'

Adult Time has released the first installment of the Bree Mills-helmed drama "Hard Stop."

Show More