What features does PWAsForFirefox offer?

Updated

PWAsForFirefox provides a command-line tool and a Firefox extension that together let you install, manage, and run Progressive Web Apps in Mozilla Firefox. It works by creating a separate, modified Firefox runtime where each installed PWA runs as a standalone app with its own window, start menu entry, and taskbar icon — filling the gap left by Firefox's lack of native PWA installation.

Core features

Command-line tool

A console tool for installing, managing, and running Progressive Web Apps in Firefox. This is the underlying mechanism the extension drives, and it can also be used directly.

Browser extension

An extension that lets you:

  • Set up the native programs the project relies on
  • Install, manage, and run PWAs
  • Manage PWA profiles directly from your main Firefox browser

The project recommends installing the browser extension and following the in-browser installation instructions.

Isolated Firefox installation and profiles

PWAsForFirefox creates a separate Firefox installation and profile(s) dedicated to storing the PWAs. This keeps installed apps isolated from your main browsing setup.

Standalone app experience

Installed PWAs:

  • Have their own start/app menu entry and taskbar icon
  • Live in their own window
  • Have no tabs and no address bar, for a more app-like feel

Broad compatibility

  • Support for installing all websites as Progressive Web Apps
  • Support for all Firefox addons/extensions and built-in Firefox features

Automatic installation and patching

Support for automatic, user-triggered installation and patching of the installation and profile(s).

Feature summary

Feature What it does
Command-line tool Install, manage, run PWAs in Firefox
Browser extension Set up native programs; install/manage/run PWAs and profiles from main Firefox
Isolated install & profiles Separate Firefox installation and profile(s) store the PWAs
Standalone app behavior Own start/app menu entry, taskbar icon, dedicated window, no tabs or address bar
Website support Install all websites as PWAs
Addon support All Firefox addons/extensions and built-in features
Automatic patching User-triggered installation and patching of install and profiles

Where to go next

  • Installation: check the installation page for setup details.
  • Detailed usage: see the user guide and related pages.
  • Problems or questions: check the help section, especially the FAQ page.
  • Full feature list: available on a dedicated features page.