Tor Browser 15.0: Vertical Tabs & Enhanced Security Based on Firefox 140 ESR

Tor Browser 15.0 introduces vertical tabs, Android screen lock, and enhanced WebAssembly security based on Firefox 140 ESR, improving privacy and usability for anonymous browsing.

Tor Browser 15.0 interface showing vertical tabs and privacy features

Tech News2 min read

Introduction

The Tor Project has unveiled Tor Browser 15.0, delivering significant privacy enhancements and interface improvements. Built on Firefox 140 ESR, this release brings a full year of Mozilla's security patches and feature updates to the anonymous browsing ecosystem, strengthening user protection across the Tor network.

Major Desktop Enhancements

Desktop users gain vertical tabs and workspace management, allowing better organization of browsing sessions. The sidebar now integrates bookmarks directly, while refreshed address bars provide cleaner navigation. These interface upgrades complement the browser's core privacy mission, making it easier to manage multiple secure browsing sessions simultaneously.

Android Security Improvements

Mobile users benefit from new screen lock functionality that automatically secures sessions when devices are unattended. This addition addresses physical security concerns, ensuring that even if someone gains physical access to your device, your Tor browsing sessions remain protected against unauthorized viewing.

WebAssembly Security Controls

WebAssembly is now disabled at Safer and Safest security levels through NoScript integration. This change moves control from global browser settings to NoScript's granular management system, which already handles other security aspects within Tor Browser. The adjustment responds to Mozilla's PDF reader migration toward WebAssembly while maintaining strong security defaults.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Enhanced privacy protection with latest Firefox ESR base
Vertical tabs improve workspace organization
Android screen lock boosts device security
Better WebAssembly control through NoScript
Updated interface maintains familiar navigation
Full year of Mozilla security patches included
Improved sidebar with direct bookmark access

Disadvantages

Learning curve for new vertical tab interface
WebAssembly restrictions may break some sites
Mobile features limited compared to desktop
Performance impact from enhanced security

Conclusion

Tor Browser 15.0 represents a substantial step forward for privacy-focused browsing, combining Firefox 140 ESR's security foundation with thoughtful interface improvements. The vertical tabs and enhanced mobile protection make anonymous web access more manageable while maintaining the robust security standards that define the Tor Project's mission. For users prioritizing online anonymity, this update delivers meaningful enhancements to both usability and protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main new features in Tor Browser 15.0?

Tor Browser 15.0 introduces vertical tabs, workspace management, Android screen lock, and enhanced WebAssembly security controls through NoScript integration, all built on Firefox 140 ESR foundation.

Is Tor Browser 15.0 more secure than previous versions?

Yes, it includes a full year of Firefox security patches, improved WebAssembly controls, and Android screen lock features that collectively enhance both desktop and mobile security for anonymous browsing.

How do vertical tabs improve browsing efficiency?

Vertical tabs in Tor Browser 15.0 allow better organization of multiple tabs in a sidebar, making it easier to switch between sessions and manage workspace without cluttering the screen.

What platforms support Tor Browser 15.0?

Tor Browser 15.0 is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, ensuring cross-platform privacy protection with consistent security features.

How does the Android screen lock feature work?

The Android screen lock automatically secures the browser session when the device is inactive, requiring authentication to resume browsing, thus preventing unauthorized access.