Zen Browser has announced the release of version 1.17.4b, which brings notable enhancements to stability and features, building on the latest Firefox version. This update specifically addresses a critical security vulnerability associated with WebGPU that could have allowed unauthorized access to the system by malicious entities. The developers have successfully patched this security flaw, ensuring a safer browsing experience.
Among the new features introduced in this version is a 'Clear Tabs' button located in the sidebar, allowing users to quickly close all unpinned tabs, which significantly improves usability. Furthermore, the browser has been updated to Firefox version 144.0.2, which includes various bug fixes and performance enhancements from its parent project.
This release also resolves a number of minor issues. For instance, the flickering sidebar problem during link dragging in compact mode has been corrected, and the double toolbar URL bar permission icons are now visually centered, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the browser. Additionally, performance and video playback issues on macOS Tahoe under heavy loads have been addressed, ensuring a smoother experience for users.
Importantly, the release fixes a startup crash that affected Windows users, particularly those running Avast or similar security software, thereby improving the stability of the browser at launch.
In summary, Zen Browser 1.17.4b not only fortifies security but also optimizes user experience with new features and numerous fixes, solidifying its position as a reliable open-source web browsing option.
Future Considerations:
Moving forward, the Zen Browser team may consider incorporating more user-requested features, enhancing customization options, and further refining performance across different operating systems. As web standards evolve, ongoing updates to security protocols and compatibility with emerging technologies will be essential in maintaining user trust and adapting to market demands
Among the new features introduced in this version is a 'Clear Tabs' button located in the sidebar, allowing users to quickly close all unpinned tabs, which significantly improves usability. Furthermore, the browser has been updated to Firefox version 144.0.2, which includes various bug fixes and performance enhancements from its parent project.
This release also resolves a number of minor issues. For instance, the flickering sidebar problem during link dragging in compact mode has been corrected, and the double toolbar URL bar permission icons are now visually centered, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the browser. Additionally, performance and video playback issues on macOS Tahoe under heavy loads have been addressed, ensuring a smoother experience for users.
Importantly, the release fixes a startup crash that affected Windows users, particularly those running Avast or similar security software, thereby improving the stability of the browser at launch.
In summary, Zen Browser 1.17.4b not only fortifies security but also optimizes user experience with new features and numerous fixes, solidifying its position as a reliable open-source web browsing option.
Future Considerations:
Moving forward, the Zen Browser team may consider incorporating more user-requested features, enhancing customization options, and further refining performance across different operating systems. As web standards evolve, ongoing updates to security protocols and compatibility with emerging technologies will be essential in maintaining user trust and adapting to market demands
Zen Browser 1.17.4b released
Zen Browser 1.17.4b has been released with significant improvements to its stability and functionality, based on the latest version of Firefox. The update addresses a critical security issue related to WebGPU vulnerabilities that could have allowed malicious actors to escape the sandboxed environment. New features include a 'Clear Tabs' button in the sidebar for quickly closing open unpinned tabs and an upgrade to Firefox 144.0.2 with various bug fixes and enhancements. This release also resolves several minor issues, such as performance problems on macOS and startup crashes on Windows.
