Linux users who download Firefox from Mozilla to install the browser on their device will experience quicker downloads and installs going forward.
Mozilla explained on its Nightly website that it switched the packaging to .tar.xz from the previously used .tar.bz2 format.
The change has the following benefits:
- The average file size of Firefox is 25 percent smaller.
- The new format offers improved decompression speeds.
- Improved compatibility.
A 25 percent reduction in file size reduces the time a download takes. Combined with faster decompression of the new format, it means that Linux users will be able to start using Firefox earlier than before.
Linux users who want to give this a try can check out the change on the Firefox Nightly download page. The download of Firefox for Linux is offered as a .tar.xz package.
The change will roll out to Firefox Beta and Release channels in the coming weeks. Maintainers should take note of the new format and update scripts that they may be using to handle both package formats or start using .tar.xz exclusively.
Mozilla says that it made the decision to use .tar.xz instead of .zst on Linux because the selected format offers better compression. The format is in wide use as well and has no extra dependencies.
Users interested in the development can check out the main listing on Bugzilla.
What is your take on the change? Feel free to leave a comment down below.