Mozilla has just released version 115 of its web browser, marking the final major update to support Windows 7, Windows 8, macOS 10.12, macOS 10.13, and macOS 10.14. Earlier this year, Microsoft officially announced the end of support for these two operating systems. Following the final curtain call for Windows 7 and Windows 8 on January 10th, many software publishers decided to discontinue support for these outdated systems. Google, in particular, made it clear that they would no longer support them alongside Chrome. Google Chrome version 109 was the last major browser update to work on these systems. However, recognizing that millions of machines still run on these outdated OSs, other players stepped up to provide users with a little more breathing room.

Mozilla’s Decision to End Support

Mozilla had previously announced that they would continue supporting their web browser for Windows 7 and Windows 8 until the third quarter of 2024. With the release of Firefox 115, Mozilla has fulfilled that commitment, as it will be the final major update for the browser on these two OSs. They also stated that users would be automatically transitioned to Firefox 115 ESR (Extended Support Release), allowing them to receive security updates until September 2024.

Those who wish to continue using future Firefox updates will need to switch from Windows 7 (or Windows 8) to Windows 10 or another supported operating system. Additionally, Mozilla clarified that Firefox 115 would be the last major browser update for several older versions of macOS. Mac users running macOS 10.12 (Sierra), macOS 10.13 (High Sierra), and macOS 10.14 (Mojave) and using Firefox will also transition to Firefox 115 ESR to continue receiving security updates. Therefore, to use versions later than Firefox 115, Mac users will need to update their operating system to at least macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or, preferably, a newer version.

Chrome’s End of Support and Other Players’ Response

Google’s decision to end support for Windows 7 and Windows 8 with Chrome version 109 was a significant turning point. However, Mozilla and other players recognized the need to accommodate users on these outdated systems. While Google Chrome moved forward, Mozilla’s Firefox 115 and its continued support for Windows 7 and Windows 8 provided an alternative for those users who have yet to upgrade their operating systems.

Firefox 115: The Final Update for Windows 7, Windows 8, and macOS 10.x

With the release of Firefox 115, Mozilla marks the end of major updates for Windows 7, Windows 8, and several older versions of macOS. As the last significant update for these systems, Firefox 115 serves as a transition point for users to consider upgrading to newer operating systems to continue enjoying the latest browser features and security enhancements.

Transition to Firefox 115 ESR and Security Updates

Users of Windows 7, Windows 8, and older versions of macOS who are currently on Firefox will be automatically shifted to Firefox 115 ESR. This transition allows them to receive security updates until September 2024, ensuring their browsing experience remains protected. While Firefox 115 ESR will not provide the latest browser features and advancements, it offers extended support and security for users who choose to stay on the older operating systems.

Implications for Mac Users

Mac users running macOS 10.12 (Sierra), macOS 10.13 (High Sierra), and macOS 10.14 (Mojave) will also be transitioned to Firefox 115 ESR. However, to access future Firefox updates beyond 115, they will need to update their operating system to at least macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or a newer version. This highlights the importance of keeping the operating system up to date to enjoy the latest browser functionalities and security enhancements.

What’s New in Firefox 115?

Apart from the discontinuation of support for these older operating systems, Firefox 115 brings several new features. One notable addition is the ability to easily import payment methods saved in Chrome-based rival browsers into Firefox. Linux users with Intel graphics processors will now be able to utilize hardware video decoding on their machines within Firefox. Lastly, Mozilla engineers have redesigned the dropdown menu in the tab manager, integrating close buttons to help users manage their tabs more efficiently.