I would like to propose a new native feature for Firefox that automatically groups open tabs based on their host (domain). This feature should add an option in Firefox’s settings so that when enabled, tabs sharing the same host are consolidated into a single tab element in the native tabs bar (positioned above the address bar as usual). Feature Requirements: Automatic Grouping by Host: When multiple tabs from the same website (i.e., same host) are open, they should automatically be grouped together in the native tabs bar. The grouping should be based strictly on the host portion of the URL (e.g., all tabs from “example.com” are grouped together). Visual Indicator: Each grouped tab should display a small badge or symbol indicating the number of “subtabs” contained within the group. This visual cue must be clearly visible at all times, ensuring users are aware of how many individual tabs are combined in the group. Integrated Dropdown for Subtabs: When the grouped tab is clicked, a dropdown list (or similar UI element) should immediately open, displaying all the individual subtabs within that group. The dropdown should enable users to switch directly to the desired tab with minimal effort (ideally in just two clicks). Native UI Integration: The feature should integrate seamlessly into Firefox’s native tabs bar, preserving the standard tab placement and functionality. This implementation should enhance tab management without requiring any additional UI elements or separate toolbars. User Configurability: An option in Firefox’s settings (or preferences) should allow users to enable or disable this feature. Additional configuration options (if feasible) might include grouping based on additional criteria (e.g., subdomains) or customization of the visual indicators. Advantages Over Existing Extensions: Reduced Clicks and Streamlined Workflow: Unlike existing extensions where users often need to manually group tabs or open an additional overview via extra clicks, this native solution automates grouping and presents the subtabs with a simple two-click process. Optimized Screen Real Estate: Existing solutions sometimes rely on sidebars or additional panels that occupy valuable browser space. Integrating the feature directly into the native tabs bar ensures that maximum content area is maintained for the webpage itself. Seamless Native Integration: As a built-in feature, it benefits from full integration with Firefox’s performance and stability. Users will experience a consistent look and feel that aligns with other native UI elements, avoiding the overhead and potential inconsistencies introduced by third-party extensions. User-Friendly and Intuitive: The proposed design mimics familiar interfaces, providing a more intuitive and efficient navigation model. Improved Efficiency: With automatic grouping and a clear visual indicator of the number of subtabs, users can quickly identify and switch between related tabs, significantly enhancing tab management and reducing clutter. Benefits: Clutter Reduction: Reduces clutter on the native tabs bar when multiple tabs from the same site are open. Efficiency: Improves user experience by enabling quick and easy switching between related tabs with minimal clicks. Intuitive Navigation: Emulates the convenient behavior seen in application grouping on some operating systems, providing a familiar and efficient navigation model for users. E.g. in Linux Mint (XFCE) see the screenshot below: What do you think about this?
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