About private browsing in Firefox for iOS

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  • Revision id: 302963
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  • Creator: Flavius Floare
  • Comment: Updated per H2 2025 content audit. Reorganized the text, moved the first headline right at the top of the KB and turned it into the intro. Added a FAQ section at the end.
  • Reviewed: Yes
  • Reviewed:
  • Reviewed by: ffloare
  • Is approved? Yes
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  • Readied for localization by: ffloare
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If you’re looking for help with your Firefox account, password recovery, or other topics, visit the Firefox Help Center. This article explains how to open and use private browsing in Firefox for iOS.

Private browsing lets you browse without saving your history, cookies, or passwords. Bookmarks and downloaded files will still be saved.

Note: Private Browsing does not make you anonymous on the Web.. Your internet provider, employer, or websites can still track your activity.

Switch between regular and private browsing

  1. Tap the tab icon at the bottom of the screen.

    iOS select tab
  2. Tap the mask button at the top center of the screen.
    Private Browsing Firefox iOS39
  3. To switch back to regular browsing, tap the mask button again.

Know when you’re in private browsing mode

You’re in private browsing mode if:

  • The tabs icon shows a purple mask.
  • The search bar is highlighted purple.

Private Browsing Tabs Firefox iOS39
Private Search Bar Firefox iOS39

Open and close private tabs

  • Switch to private browsing mode (see above).
  • Tap the plus (+) button to open a new private tab.
  • To close a private tab, tap the x in the tab preview.


Add Tab Firefox iOS39

Tip: To open a link in a Private Tab, press on the link until the menu opens, then choose Open in a Private Tab.

FAQ

Can I make private browsing the default in Firefox for iOS?

No. Firefox for iOS doesn’t currently support launching in private browsing mode by default. You’ll need to switch manually each time.

Does private browsing block all tracking?

No. Private browsing prevents Firefox from saving your local browsing data, but it doesn’t block all online tracking. For more protection, use Enhanced Tracking Protection, which is always on in private windows.

Why can’t I find the private browsing option?

If you don’t see the mask icon, make sure you’re on the tab view screen. The mask only appears in tab view, not while a webpage is open.

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