Testing the waters before an official launch at the end of 2009, open-source software specialist Mozilla Corp. has rolled out the initial beta version of its incoming Firefox v3.6 platform update.
Users of the new beta release are unlikely to notice any really significant outward changes to their Web browsing software, not least because most of its tweaks and alterations are rooted in core elements such as improved CSS, HTML 5 and DOM technologies, along with support for Web Open Font Format (WOFF).
Other new features integrated through Firefox v3.6 include improved security protection for potentially vulnerable third-party plug-ins, support for Aero Peek (Windows 7), taskbar thumbnail previews, full-screen video embedding, enhanced JavaScript performance, and quicker start-up times.
Existing beta testers already providing feedback for Firefox will receive the v3.6 upgrade automatically, while those looking to embrace the platform ahead of its final release can do so by visiting the official Mozilla Web site.
The download is available in a total of 46 different languages and is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X and open-source Linux operating systems.
While originally expected to arrive around two weeks ago, the minor v3.6 upgrade was hit by a brief delay while Mozilla developers pulled a toothcomb through its browser in order to drag out any remaining glitches.