Mozilla Firefox will be supported on Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, after all
The company previously announced the browser won't be supported on these Windows versions.
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In an interesting turn of events, Mozilla is apparently bringing back Firefox support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Mozilla has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging Chrome and Edge’s monopoly by providing additional backing for these previous Windows versions. This move is more than just an act for sentimental reasons; it’s about giving a helping hand to those who are not prepared or eager enough yet (for various reasons) to upgrade their OSs significantly.
A while ago, Mozilla announced that Firefox will no longer be supported on Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. You might wonder why the company is doing this. This is because, even though technology keeps progressing, many users still use Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 happily without any problems.
So, Mozilla has made a thoughtful decision to help these people out even more—they will keep offering support for Firefox on all three of these platforms (Windows versions) mentioned earlier. The decision was made modernly through an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session on Reddit last month when the Firefox leadership team disclosed their plans to extend aid not just for a longer time but also to offer improved migration options when users decide it is necessary.
We’re planning to extend support for Windows 7 users past the currently planned date and give them better options for migrating to a new PC when they choose to. It does include 8 and 8.1, I should have said that earlier.
Mozilla employee
In the bigger picture, this could appear as a tiny action. Yet, for those using older Windows versions, it gives them hope. Now that Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge have decided to no longer support these older operating systems, Firefox is the only browser that provides updates and security fixes, which helps make your browsing experience safer.
And yet, the inquiry of “how long?” goes unanswered. The Mozilla team has vowed to extend their assistance, but they are taking things one step at a time, waiting for future usage patterns. It’s a smart move, keeping their options open while closely monitoring the landscape.
The honest answer is that we don’t know right now, but on the surface it makes sense for us to support it while usage is still high there.
Mozilla employee
At the start, it may appear like a significant exertion for an audience that is getting smaller. But here’s the twist: by locking in these users’ loyalty, Mozilla doesn’t just keep its current user base intact and sets up Firefox as a caring and user-centric option among other browsers. This is a typical example of choosing quality instead of quantity, emphasizing user needs and not merely chasing numbers.
So, if you still have Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 and are not prepared yet to completely part ways with them, don’t worry. Firefox is here for your support.
