After backlash from the open-source community, Mozilla removed this clause, stating it was misinterpreted legal boilerplate.

Mozilla’s Response: A Quick but Unconvincing Fix?

Following user outrage, Ajit Varma, Mozilla’s VP of Firefox Product, issued a statement clarifying that:

🛑 Mozilla does NOT own user data
🔍 The clause was only meant to explain Firefox’s basic functionality
📝 The wording has now been updated to avoid confusion

While this explanation may have calmed some users, another major change added fuel to the fire:

📝 Mozilla quietly removed its promise that Firefox does not sell user data.

Firefox’s Privacy Policy: What’s Missing?

Previously, Mozilla proudly stated:

“Firefox is the only major browser backed by a not-for-profit that doesn’t sell your personal data to advertisers.”

Now, this statement has been reworded to:

“Firefox, the only major browser backed by a not-for-profit, helps you protect your personal information.”

Similarly, Mozilla’s response to the FAQ question “Is Firefox free?” previously read:

“Yep! The Firefox Browser is free. Super free, actually. No hidden costs or anything. You don’t pay anything to use it, and we don’t sell your personal data.”

The new version completely omits the data-selling disclaimer, now reading:

“Yep! The Firefox Browser is free. Super free, actually. No hidden costs or anything. You don’t pay anything to use it.”

While Mozilla claims this change was made due to legal variations in how different jurisdictions define ‘selling data’, users see it as a red flag.

Mozilla’s Changing Leadership & Business Direction

Some are speculating that Mozilla’s shift in language may be connected to recent leadership changes. In December 2024, Mozilla brought in several new executives, including:

• Ajit Varma – Formerly with Meta & Google, now VP of Firefox Product
• Anthony Enzor-DeMeo – Ex-Wayfair & Better.com, now Senior VP of Firefox
• Girish Rao – Previously at Warner Bros, EA & Cisco, now SVP of Infrastructure

Mozilla’s CEO Laura Chambers, who took over in early 2024, has been making aggressive changes, including deep staffing cuts at the Mozilla Foundation.

Is Mozilla Heading Toward an Ad-Driven Future?

While Mozilla insists it is not selling user data, critics argue that these policy changes align with a shift toward monetization.

🔹 Mozilla already profits from search partnerships—Google reportedly pays Mozilla $450 million per year to make Google the default search engine in Firefox.
🔹 The company has invested heavily in ad-supported services like Mozilla VPN and Pocket (its content recommendation platform).

Users fear that Mozilla’s move away from clear anti-tracking promises could signal an increased focus on data monetization—bringing it closer to the business models of Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.

The Fallout: What’s Next for Firefox?

The backlash has sparked heated discussions on Mozilla’s official forums, Reddit, and tech communities.

Some users are now exploring privacy-focused Firefox alternatives, such as:
🔹 Waterfox – A Firefox-based browser that removes telemetry and tracking
🔹 LibreWolf – A security-focused, open-source browser with enhanced privacy features
🔹 Floorp – A highly customizable, privacy-first alternative

While Firefox remains a strong competitor in the privacy browser market, the latest controversy raises serious concerns about its future direction.

🔹 The file or folder will remain visible but faded. To fully hide it, press Shift + Cmd + . (period) again.

Step 3: Unhide Files in Finder

🔹 Rename the file or folder removing the period.
🔹 Restart Finder by opening Terminal and typing:

bashCopyEditkillall Finder

🔹 Press Enter to apply the changes.

Method 2: Hiding Files Using Terminal

If you prefer not to rename files manually, macOS Terminal provides a command-based method to hide and unhide files.

Step 1: Hide a File or Folder

1️⃣ Open Terminal (Cmd + Space, type “Terminal,” and press Enter).
2️⃣ Type the following command:

bashCopyEditchflags hidden 

3️⃣ Drag the file or folder you want to hide into the Terminal window (this automatically adds the file path).
4️⃣ Press Enter to hide it.
5️⃣ Restart Finder using:

bashCopyEditkillall Finder

🔹 The file is now hidden.

Step 2: Unhide a File or Folder

1️⃣ Open Terminal and enter:

bashCopyEditchflags nohidden 

2️⃣ Drag the hidden file or folder into Terminal and press Enter.
3️⃣ If the file remains hidden, press Shift + Cmd + . (period) to reveal it in Finder.

🔹 Note: This method is quick and easy but not entirely secure—anyone familiar with macOS can still reveal hidden files.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software for Extra Security

If you need stronger protection than Finder or Terminal, consider third-party tools that offer password-protected file encryption.

1️⃣ Funter (Basic File Hiding Tool – Free)

Funter is a menu bar utility that allows you to hide and unhide files with a single toggle switch.

🔹 Key Features:
✔️ Quickly hide/unhide files from the menu bar.
✔️ Search for hidden files on your Mac.
✔️ Works similarly to the Shift + Cmd + . shortcut but with a simpler interface.

🔹 Limitations:
❌ Files can still be revealed without a password, meaning it’s not a fully secure solution.

How to Use Encrypto to Secure Files on macOS

1️⃣ Download and install Encrypto.
2️⃣ Open the Encrypto app.
3️⃣ Drag and drop the file or folder you want to hide into the app.
4️⃣ Enter a password to encrypt the file.
5️⃣ Click Encrypt to lock it.
6️⃣ Save the encrypted file anywhere on your system.

🔹 To decrypt the file, simply double-click it, enter the password, and retrieve your data.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra security, use Finder or Terminal to hide the Encrypto-protected file so that even if someone finds it, they won’t be able to open it without the password.

Final Thoughts: Which Method Should You Use?

🔹 If you just want to temporarily hide files, use Finder or Terminal.
🔹 If you need quick access to hidden files, try Funter.
🔹 If you require serious security and password protection, Encrypto is the best option.

By following these methods, you can effectively hide and secure your files on macOS, ensuring your privacy remains intact. Whether you’re protecting personal documents, sensitive work files, or private media, macOS offers multiple ways to keep your data safe from prying eyes.

What the NKS Hardware Partner Program Offers

The NKS Hardware Partner Program enables basic integration for partner controllers, giving users access to Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol desktop software. With this, musicians can fully explore the 2,000+ NKS-compatible instruments and effects library. Supported hardware now benefits from:

• Intuitive Mappings: Supported controllers offer plug-and-play functionality, allowing hands-on control without the need for extensive configuration.
• Future-Ready Features: The program sets the stage for advanced functionality in upcoming products, ensuring creators remain at the forefront of innovation.
• Streamlined Workflows: Producers can stay immersed in their music-making process without unnecessary distractions.

Industry Leaders Joining the NKS Ecosystem

The partnership with Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg, and M-Audio is a game-changer for music production. Here’s how each brand’s hardware integrates with NKS:

• Akai Professional:
  The MPK Mini Series (MPK Mini, MPK Mini Play, and MPK Mini Plus) now features NKS compatibility, bringing Akai’s widely loved compact controllers into the Native Instruments fold.
• Novation:
  NKS integration enhances the Launchkey MK3 and MK4, FLkey, and SL MK3 controllers, expanding their already exceptional DAW workflows. The addition of NKS compatibility means creators can now combine Novation’s ease of use with Komplete Kontrol’s powerful sound library.
• Nektar:
  The LX MK3 Series gains velocity-sensitive NKS functionality, enabling producers to enjoy expressive control and streamlined creative workflows.
• Korg:
  With MIDI 2.0-ready Keystage controllers, Korg brings its signature innovation into the NKS ecosystem. These controllers cater to both live performers and studio producers, offering advanced sound design possibilities.
• M-Audio:
  The Oxygen Series keyboards now boast NKS integration, empowering music makers with cutting-edge tools for studio and stage performances alike.

Why This Matters

For producers, this expansion eliminates the frustration of incompatible hardware and software. By integrating their favourite controllers with Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol platform, music makers gain a seamless and expressive workflow that fosters creativity and innovation. The addition of industry-leading hardware ensures that the NKS ecosystem continues to set the standard for music production.

What’s Next for Native Instruments?

This launch is just the beginning. Native Instruments has hinted at upcoming advanced features and hardware updates within the NKS framework, promising even greater possibilities for musicians. As the ecosystem grows, users can expect enhanced tools to further connect their creative processes.