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Firefox latest update makes it a much better browser for iPad users

By Sarah Chen
2 min read
Firefox Kiosk
Firefox Kiosk
In this article (4)

If you’re using Firefox on your iPad, you’ll be pleased to know that Mozilla is now making your life much easier. Since the iPad offers a bigger display than the iPhone, which means you can use it differently like for example watch a video and browse the Internet.

In order for that to work, your browser must support split screen, a feature that allows you to have two apps side-by-side making it easy for you to share links or take notes without having to switch back and forth between apps. The latest Firefox update enables iPad users to divide the screen between the browser and another app like Google Maps or Slack.

Besides split screen support, Mozilla also included some quality of life improvements, such as better tab management, easier to access Private Browsing, and keyboard shortcuts.

After the update, you’ll notice that Firefox will display tabs like tiles, which makes it easier to see them. Also, whenever you try to get to a private page on an iOS device, you usually have to go through a couple of steps, but the latest version puts Private Browsing in the lower left corner of the browser window so that you can access it with just one click.

Now, if you’re using an external keyboard with your iPad, you’ll be happy to learn that you can hold down the command key on your tablet to show keyboard shortcuts. Mozilla has implemented some shortcuts exactly as they are on the Mac, so you might be familiar with many of them. There’s also another feature introduced which will allow you to send tabs between devices without having to leave the browser, but you will need a Firefox account for that.

Last but not least, a much-requested feature is now being implemented in Firefox, but only to some extent. Since iOS doesn’t allow Mozilla to enable users to set Firefox as the default browser, the developers have found a way to allow them to set it as default browser when they open email links from Microsoft Outlook.

Questions & Answers

Q.

What is the primary new feature for iPad users in the latest Firefox update?

A.

The latest Firefox update enables iPad users to divide the screen between the browser and another app, which allows two apps to be side-by-side for easier link sharing or note-taking.

Q.

What other improvements has Mozilla included in this update for iPad users?

A.

Mozilla has also included better tab management, easier to access Private Browsing, and keyboard shortcuts. Tabs now display like tiles, and Private Browsing is accessible with one click.

Q.

Does the update allow users to set Firefox as their default browser on iPad?

A.

No, iOS limitations prevent Firefox from being set as the default browser. However, developers have found a way for users to set it as default when opening email links from Microsoft Outlook.

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