The update also emphasizes local resource management, with onboarding pages and essential favicons now bundled directly within the application, thereby reducing reliance on external services, CDNs, and Cloudflare. As part of this shift, the initial essentials will only load upon user interaction with the relevant tab, enhancing both privacy and efficiency. Additionally, the browser has adapted its initial essentials to focus on more privacy and productivity-oriented sites.
Among the new features, users can expect a smoother file download experience with refined animations, improved workspace switching capabilities, and a redesigned URL bar. The update also introduces a dedicated homepage button, options for importing and exporting settings, and a new search engine selection form during onboarding. Furthermore, substantial internal refactoring has been conducted to align with Firefox's updated security standards.
The update addresses multiple fixes, including resolving crashes in the tab management menu, issues with split view functionality, and problems with the URL bar. Users can look forward to a more stable and user-friendly experience with this release.
Looking ahead, the Zen Browser team has hinted at the upcoming inclusion of folder features in future updates, particularly with the release of Firefox 138. This suggests continued development and commitment to enhancing the browser's capabilities.
In summary, the Zen Browser 1.12b release not only brings exciting new features and a focus on privacy but also demonstrates a clear commitment to improving user experience through significant updates and fixes. As privacy concerns grow, this update positions Zen Browser as a strong contender in the market, prioritizing user security and efficiency
Zen Browser 1.12b released
Zen Browser 1.12b has been released with new features and enhancements, including integration with floss.social and a comprehensive update to privacy protocols. The core has seen the removal of Firefox telemetry, and onboarding pages along with essential favicons are now bundled locally. The website has transitioned away from dependence on external services, CDNs, and Cloudflare services. The count of external connections has decreased from 82 to approximately 20-10, with only critical security updates and services not related to telemetry still in operation. The update features a refined animation for file downloads, fully containerized essentials, automatic Picture-in-Picture functionality, a dedicated homepage button, export/import options, enhanced workspace switching, a redesigned URL bar, a revamp of essential layouts, and a search engine selection form for the onboarding process. The update also resolves issues related to the panel's UI, the URL bar losing focus, and the occurrence of an empty new tab opening when closing with a pinned tab selected from the previous session.
