Mozilla is one of the strongest contenders in the browser market with is Firefox browser. The company periodically updates its Wiki pages featuring new ideas for Firefox development.

Recently, the updates on Mozilla’s Wiki are drumbeating a common theme. The developers of Firefox are focusing now on simplifying the browser.

Firefox Developer’s Concerns

Most developers of Firefox believe that the browser is well behind on the development of Windows. Specifically, Firefox developers want to address the issues that showed on Vista and Windows 7.

The issues include element overload, anemic purple toolbar, bulky user interface footprint, inconsistent icons for the toolbar, and lack of distinct look and feel.

Resolutions to these changes have been discussed by developers. Some ideas have come up like merging the go-stop-refresh buttons. Developers are also contemplating on using neutral tone and utilizing designs that Windows elements will allow.

Probable Changes under Consideration

Taking out the menu bar and totally removing the home button are some of the most interesting design changes that are being contemplated by Firefox developers. In the Wiki page of Mozilla, the notes asserted that the home button functions like a bookmark.

However, this button still has a dedicated place on the toolbar which takes up lots of screen real estate. Developers are also viewing the home button as an unnecessary tool.

Specific Changes for Version 3.7

Developers are proposing the creation of a Home tab for the Firefox 3.7. In effect, the home button will be replaced by this home tab. It functions like a home page but any link clicked through it will open in a new tab. According to the developers, this will introduce the tabs concept to new users.

The redesign is not yet final and developers are still working on them. The upgrade is still at proposal stage and users and other developers can still provide feedback and inputs.

Some changes may not be noticeable like the ability to hide the menu bar. The bookmarks bar is also set to go and will be replaced by a widget for creating and managing bookmarked pages.

Proposals for Version 4.0

The revisions for Mozilla’s version 4.0 are sketchier. The introduction of version 4.0 is still far into the future. However, developers are cooking up neat changes for this version which you may find interesting.

Firefox developers are contemplating on allowing users to pin web apps to the screen for quick access and retrieval. This is particularly useful for applications that are commonly used like Gmail, Tweeter and other web services.

Other nifty changes include integrating the search bar and the address bar, eliminating the title bar, and showing the page title on a particular tab only. These are very subtle changes and are not unique. But the trimmed down version can greatly simplify Firefox.

Mozilla’s Firefox has been lauded for its strong security features. Its ability to enhance functionality through plug-ins is also impressive. The proposed dressing down and simplification of the new versions could help Mozilla in cutting the lead of Internet Explorer in the browser war.

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