Firefox’s Project Nova Redesign Release Date Is Official, It’s Coming Next Week

Firefox 157 will release Mozilla’s long-awaited Project Nova redesign on September 29, 2026, giving the browser a cleaner and more modern interface across desktop and mobile.

Mozilla says the update focuses mainly on visual improvements rather than functionality, meaning existing features should continue working as before. Project Nova has been in development for roughly a year, and Mozilla has already spent months publicly testing the new Firefox interface.

Firefox 157 refreshes tabs, menus, and browser controls

The Nova redesign introduces cleaner toolbars, softer-looking tabs, refreshed icons, updated menus, panels, and other browser controls.

Mozilla has also adjusted spacing throughout Firefox to reduce visual clutter while making better use of available screen space. The company plans to use the same design language across desktop and mobile, giving Firefox a more consistent appearance across devices.

Despite the visual changes, Mozilla does not plan to remove or significantly change existing browser features as part of the redesign.

Compact mode is making a comeback

Firefox 157 will also bring back Compact mode, giving users the option to fit more browser controls into a smaller amount of screen space.

Mozilla is restoring the feature after users asked for a denser interface. Features such as tab groups, split view, and vertical tabs should also become easier to find and access.

Elsewhere, Mozilla continues expanding its AI efforts. The company recently added AI agent Tasks to Firefox Smart Window and confirmed that Mistral AI models will power Firefox Smart Window.