With the official release of Firefox 151, Mozilla announced full support for the Web Serial API in desktop browsers, bringing developers and hardware enthusiasts new capabilities to connect and control hardware devices directly through the Firefox browser. This update is aimed at the growing "maker" and embedded device communities, making the browser no longer just a tool for "viewing web pages", but becoming a core working platform for connecting microcontrollers, development boards and various serial devices.
Mozilla said that while most ordinary users will not use the Web Serial API directly, for developers, makers, educators, and embedded and hardware enthusiasts, this feature will significantly change their daily workflow. After Firefox's Gecko engine adds Web Serial support, users can complete hardware connection, programming, configuration and control directly through the browser in many scenarios, without the need to install additional software or complex configuration. For a variety of hardware-centric online tools and educational content, this means bringing more of a “connect-and-play” experience to the web itself.
In order to verify and demonstrate the practical application effect of this new capability, Mozilla has cooperated with Adafruit, a well-known open source hardware community, to jointly test the browser hardware development process based on Firefox. If you’ve ever worked with CircuitPython, a browser-based board burning tool, a variety of custom controllers, sensor kits, or STEM teaching projects in the classroom, you’ve probably come across Adafruit hardware or tutorials. With Web Serial support in Firefox 151, Adafruit’s range of browser-side hardware workflows can now run directly in Firefox, allowing many projects to get started without the need to install additional drivers or tools. Mozilla also invites users to personally experience the complete process of connecting and flashing devices directly in Firefox through the Web Serial tool provided by Adafruit.
Mozilla emphasized that different user communities have different expectations for browsers. Some people value simplicity, familiarity, and efficiency more, while others care more about flexibility, customization capabilities, and support for their way of working and creative processes. From Mozilla's perspective, Web Serial support is part of "Building for Builders": allowing the browser to remain open and diverse while better serving those who build future web experiences with circuit boards, code, and ideas.
For users who are learning how to get started with hardware, trying out personal projects, or rekindling their interest in electronic production, Mozilla encourages everyone to try the Web Serial-based workflow in Firefox with Adafruit's tools. Officials also call on the community to provide feedback on successful experiences and problems in actual use to help continuously improve this new capability. Mozilla said it hopes developers and makers will "create amazing works and truly useful tools" and will build Firefox and Web Serial into their own creative platforms in the process of exploration.