TMCnet Feature

Mozilla (News - Alert) will likely offer a few versions of Firefox on Windows 8 this year, according to organization statements.

First, Mozilla will make what is being called a "technology proof of concept" of Firefox on Windows 8 Metro, the organization said in a “roadmap.” The proof of concept is likely to be offered during the 2Q of 2012, according to a report from Computerworld. In addition, alpha and beta versions of the browser will be released in the period between July and December, Computerworld adds.

Mozilla – a rival to Microsoft (News - Alert) – is the first competitor which is coming up with a Metro version, according to the report.

Windows 8 will offer both “Classic” and “Metro” options. Windows 8 Classic is similar to Windows 7, according to a Mozilla post. On the other hand, Metro will lead to a new front end and system integration points from Firefox, Mozilla adds.

“In order to deliver a compelling Firefox for Windows 8 Metro experience, we need to understand what's possible,” Mozilla explained in its company plans. “A technology proof of concept is the first step. This is not a Alpha or a Beta, but should demonstrate the feasibility of Firefox in Windows 8 Metro.”

"The Alpha will prove the installation path and basic browsing features, [and] the beta will be feature complete for a 1.0-capability product," Mozilla added.

The first public beta version of Windows 8 is expected to be released this month, adds a recent report appearing on TMCnet. Microsoft is expected to ship the “consumer preview” of Windows 8 on Feb. 29 – which will provide needed information for Mozilla as it proceeds with development.

It was also reported that Firefox on Metro will use existing Gecko libraries. Gecko is the browser engine for Firefox, and the new Mozilla browser may only run on Windows 8, and not on WOA, according to news reports.

It was also speculated that Mozilla may make its own Web-based operating system for tablets and smartphones, according to Computerworld.