Firefox Just Got Faster and Lighter for Linux with .tar.xz!

A Big Step Forward for Linux Users!

Good news, Linux enthusiasts! Firefox is now lighter, faster, and more efficient with a major packaging update. We’re transitioning from the old .tar.bz2 format to the new .tar.xz format, delivering smoother downloads and faster installations.

Why the Switch to .tar.xz?

This transition is part of our continuous effort to optimize Firefox for all users. The .tar.xz format leverages the LZMA compression algorithm, offering smaller file sizes and quicker decompression.

Here’s what you can expect:

Smaller Downloads
On average, .tar.xz packages are 25% smaller than .tar.bz2. This means faster downloads, saving you time and bandwidth.
Faster Installation
Thanks to improved decompression speeds, installing Firefox is quicker than ever. The .tar.xz format decompresses over twice as fast as .tar.bz2.
Enhanced Compatibility
Modern Linux distributions support .tar.xz, making Firefox more aligned with Linux community standards.
No Action Required for Existing Users
Already using Firefox? No worries! Your browser will continue to work and update seamlessly.

How to Access the New Package?

If you’re reinstalling Firefox or just curious to try it:

Starting November 27, 2024, you can find .tar.xz archives on the Firefox downloads page. Simply select Firefox Nightly for Linux, and you’re good to go!
For Package Maintainers or Script Users:
Ensure your scripts can handle both .tar.bz2 and .tar.xz formats to avoid interruptions. We recommend transitioning fully to .tar.xz as it becomes available across all channels.

Why Not Zstandard (.zst)?

While .zst offers slightly faster decompression, .tar.xz was chosen for its:

Better Compression: It reduces file sizes significantly, saving bandwidth.
Wide Compatibility: .tar.xz works seamlessly across Linux distributions without extra dependencies.