The last time we discussed the Firefox app for Android receiving an update was way back in June, but there has been an update to Android since then in the shape of Jelly Bean, so Mozilla had to act. There are a number of improvements made to this app, but the biggest is providing support for ARMv6 phones.
While this sounds like just a minor update, we have to stress that this now means the app supports millions more devices that use ARMv6 processors. Some of those handsets include the HTC ChaCha, HTC Status, LG Optimus Q, Motorola Fire XT and also the Samsung Galaxy Ace.
This is pretty big deal because Android 2.2 JB had recently offered support for the newer ARMv7 chips, which did not go down well with those who owned the handsets above. As ever Mozilla aims to bring their Firefox browser to as many people on the go as possible, so this update was only a matter of time.
So what’s new we hear you ask? Not only is there support for handsets being powered by those ARMv6 processors, but also the update is now able to decode H.264/AAC/MP3 audio and video. Support for Explore by Touch on Jelly Bean has also been added as well.
It’s not just about offering support for those older less powerful handsets though, as most smartphones with Jelly Bean using the Firefox app will not have to worry about instability anymore, as this has also been resolved. You’ll also be pleased to learn that the issue with holding the backspace will no longer delete text at the front and back your cursor.
This latest Firefox update is not all about offering support for Jelly Bean or resolving issues, it’s also about bringing new features as well. One new feature is offering a profile size reduction, while the other is Initial web app support. You can view the full release notes here.