Firefox 22 is now available for download

Mozilla has released Firefox 22 for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android. This is primarily a developer-focused release, adding WebRTC and asm.js support to the browser, but the real-world implications go well beyond the developer community. Support for 3D gaming, video calls, and file sharing without plugins are the headline additions, and they represent a meaningful step forward for what browsers can do natively.

WebRTC: Video Calls and File Sharing Without Plugins

The biggest addition in Firefox 22 is WebRTC, or Web Real-Time Communications. Google began integrating WebRTC back in October 2012 and Mozilla has been running its own tests since the Firefox 18 beta. With version 22, the feature is ready for general use. According to Mozilla, WebRTC will integrate seamlessly with a user's device to enable voice and video calls and file sharing directly through the browser, with no third-party plugin required. Given how popular web-based chat and communication services have become, this is a significant milestone for Firefox.

asm.js: 3D Gaming in the Browser

Firefox 22 also adds support for asm.js, a highly optimised subset of JavaScript that enables near-native performance for demanding applications like 3D games. Combined with WebRTC, this release pushes Firefox closer to being a self-contained platform for rich, interactive experiences without relying on external installations.

What About Firefox 22 for Android?

The Android release picks up most of the improvements from the desktop version, but WebRTC and asm.js are not included just yet. Those features are expected to follow in a future mobile update. It is worth keeping an eye on upcoming releases if you are primarily a mobile Firefox user.