How to disable desktop mode in Firefox v133 on Android

Firefox 133 update for Android rolled out recently, and for big-screen enthusiasts, it’s bringing some desktop-style drama. This latest update enables Desktop mode browsing by default on larger devices like tablets, foldables, and even some phablets. The feature sounds great in theory — why squint at mobile sites when you’ve got all that screen real estate? But in practice, it’s left some users unimpressed and actively exploring ways to disable desktop mode on Firefox.

The update automatically switches larger devices to Desktop mode, tweaking how websites render on Firefox. This change is tucked away in the settings under the newly renamed “Site settings” menu, formerly “Site permissions.” For fans of the change, it’s a dream come true — no more fiddling with mobile versions that waste valuable screen space.

But not everyone’s thrilled. Some users were baffled by wonky UI scaling and stubborn websites ignoring the usual “Desktop site” toggle in the browser menu. If you’ve opened Firefox after the update and wondered why your search results shrank or YouTube suddenly looked like a tiny control panel, you’re not alone. The global Desktop mode setting overrides the per-site toggles, and this can leave folks feeling a bit zoomed out — literally.

Luckily, there’s a fix for those who’d rather keep things mobile. If you’re not a fan of the default Desktop mode, here’s how to reclaim your browsing zen:

1. Tap the three-dot menu in Firefox.
2. Head to “Settings” and scroll down to “Site settings.”
3. Toggle off the “Always request desktop site” option.

For this to take effect, you may need to completely close Firefox, including removing it from the recent apps screen. Then reopen it and enjoy websites back in their mobile glory.

This update comes hot on the heels of another Firefox tweak — the addition of a sidebar and vertical tabs on some desktop builds. While some welcomed the multitasking boost, others rushed to disable it. And Firefox isn’t alone in facing UI-related backlash; Opera GX users are also frustrated by a recent redesign, with many clamoring to revert to the old interface.

While some users are cheering this change as a long-overdue improvement for tablets, others are still on the hunt for the perfect balance between mobile and desktop views. Whether you’re team Desktop or team Mobile, Firefox 133 has certainly stirred the pot, proving that even the most well-intentioned updates can bring a little chaos to our screens.

What’s your take — big win for big screens or an adjustment too far? Let us know in the comments below.