Mozilla boosts memory use and performance in latest Firefox Aurora release

Mozilla has announced that the latest version of its next-generation Firefox Aurora browser is available for testing, featuring performance and memory use enhancements.

The company explained in a blog post that the latest software starts more quickly on Mac, Windows and Linux machines, and addresses the memory problems that hit previous versions.

Mozilla claimed that improved memory management means that memory use will be reduced by 30 per cent or more for many users. A 'JavaScript garbage collector', meanwhile, frees up more memory when Firefox is idle by clearing any processes not actively running.

Other enhancements include instant syncing of bookmarks and passwords, and improved font rendering, said Mozilla.

The firm has also included telemetry, which allows users to "opt-in for automatic memory usage, performance testing and reporting to help improve future versions of Firefox".

In addition there is support for 'CSS3 text overflow: ellipsis', which gives developers a "more elegant way" to display text that has overflowed from its designated layout area.

"If you already have Firefox Aurora installed, you will receive an automated update notification in the next few days," said Mozilla.

"To check if you are running the latest Firefox Aurora, go to the 'About Aurora' menu to apply the update manually."

Mozilla will be hoping that the latest software launch will detract from the confusion caused by its comments on enterprise support last week.