(For Firefox for Android)
Currently, when on a page with no browsing history (e.g. a newly opened tab, or a page opened directly from an external app), using the back gesture or system back button causes Firefox to create a new blank tab.
However:
In multi-tab workflows, users usually intend to return to the previously viewed tab, not to stay on an empty page.
Creating a new tab here is redundant, since โNew Tabโ is already accessible via the Home button or long-press menu.
Proposal:
When the current tab has no back history, make the Back action switch to the previously active tab, aligning with user expectations and reducing unnecessary steps.
Benefits:
Smoother navigation when working with multiple tabs.
Saves time switching tabs manually.
Matches the intuitive meaning of โBackโ as returning to the source, even across tabs.
๐ If you like this idea, please give it kudos so it gains more visibility and has a chance to be adopted.