australis
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Firefox's revamped interface is now available in Aurora releases
You no longer have to grab one of Firefox's ever-changing nightly builds to try the browser's new Australis interface ahead of its official launch. Mozilla has just released a new Aurora version that includes Australis' simpler, more customizable layout; it also brings the easier, account-based sync system. The new Firefox edition is still quite rough, but curious web surfers who were only waiting for more reliable code can start downloading today.
Firefox previews near-final Australis interface with curved tabs, streamlined controls
Firefox has been talking up Australis, its next-gen browser interface, for quite some time now, and that celestial-sounding update has just landed on Firefox Nightly. Yes, finally curious users can test it out and evaluate the experience as Firefox gets closer to the final version. Per a video preview on the Mozilla blog, one of the most immediately obvious changes with Australis is a new, curvier tab shape (like a rounded take on Chrome's style). Firefox also designed the forward button to only appear when you hover over it, and the tool bar has been streamlined, with the bulk of browser settings accessible via a menu on the right-hand side. Firefox says Australis will offer "consistency and unification" across different devices, which likely means a similar look and feel along with the requisite saved tabs. Finally, enhanced customization settings should make it easier to tweak the browser to your liking. We're definitely digging the softer, more minimalist look -- check it out for yourself via the source links below.
Firefox shows its curvy Australis tabs for upcoming unified version
Mozilla is busy sprucing up and unifying Firefox, and an oven-fresh test build will see how users feel about ditching square tabs. The new curved element will be part of a future multi-platform version codenamed Australis, and Mozilla threw the build up on the designer's blog, asking downloaders to comment on the new look. Active tabs will get the rounded corners, and those not in use will have no background, appearing as just text against the titlebar. If you've been eyeing Chrome's sleek chamfers enviously and want to scope the Fox's new curves, check the source for the link.
