Tor Browser 14.0 has officially arrived and is now available for download from the Tor Project website. This latest stable release is built on Firefox ESR 128 and integrates a year’s worth of updates from the development team.
A Refreshed Look and Enhanced Functionality
With Tor Browser 14.0, users will notice subtle but impactful changes, especially when it comes to design and functionality. The new version inherits updated typography from Firefox, featuring heavier headings and adjusted line heights for better accessibility.
In addition to the visual updates, Tor Browser tackled significant technical challenges. Some key achievements include consolidating the Android codebase, improving APK reproducibility, reducing APK size, and enhancing the way Tor Browser spoofs its user agent to ensure user privacy.
This release also brings usability improvements without compromising privacy. Users can now enjoy features like picture-in-picture and taking screenshotsโconveniences that previously had been limited due to privacy concerns.
New Circuit Feature for Android
A notable improvement in Tor Browser 14.0 is introducing the “New circuit for this site” feature for Android. Previously, Android users could only refresh all circuits through a workaround involving a persistent notification.
However, this did not fully replicate the “New identity” feature available on desktop versions, which resets cookies and clears browsing history. Now, Android users have a more straightforward and targeted option for requesting new circuits without resetting their identity entirely.
Extended Support for Legacy Platforms
Earlier, the Tor Project announced that version 13.5 would be the last major release supporting Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, as well as macOS 10.12 to 10.14. However, circumstances have changed, and users on these older platforms will continue receiving critical security updates until at least March 2025.
This is thanks to Mozilla extending support for Firefox ESR 115, which allows Tor Browser 13.5 to continue receiving crucial patches.
It is important to note that Tor Browser users will now be split across two update paths. Users on Windows 10 or later and macOS 10.15 or later will be updated to version 14.0, while those on older systems will remain on version 13.5. The Tor Project strongly recommends upgrading your operating system to ensure you receive the latest features and maximum security.
Tor Browser 14.0: Known Issues
As with any major release, Tor Browser 14.0 has some known issues. Android users who have installed the browser via Guardian Project’s F-Droid repo might face difficulties updating due to an unresolved issue with the repository.
In the meantime, users can either download the updated version directly from the Tor Browser website or use Google Play, where the update is available.
Lastly, windows users running Tor Browser in compatibility mode on Windows 10 or 11 may find that the browser mistakenly identifies the system as Windows 7, preventing the update to version 14.0. To resolve this, ensure compatibility mode is turned off before proceeding with the update.
For more information and technical details, refer to the release announcements.