I have been using the beta version of Firefox since last weekend. I love it! You can try it here.

The main thing I needed and that I’m experiencing is that it stays perky even with a ton  of tabbed windows open. Yes, my browsing habits include opening and keeping open lots of windows at once. Firefox has had the ability to support this for a while, but memory use grew, sluggishness crept in, and Firefox sometimes crashed.

Keeping in mind that Firefox 3 is still in test stage, I have had only two crashes, and both under special circumstances. And I love how the tab bar flies when you move from one open browser pane to another.

Firefox extensions are a key attraction. Most of mine updated fine to the new release, and I believe you will find that as well. The process seems much smoother than in past Firefox major upgrades.

The only real set-back is that the del.icio.us buttons don’t work yet. I read that this is partly because del.icio.us itself is also getting ready for a major upgrade. Work on extensions has focused on supporting that upgrade. But I truly miss the easy access to my bookmarks, especially this week right after NTC. I have been trying to use the standalone Netlicious instead, but it’s not as convenient.

Firefox 3 has lots of other improvements, which you can read about here.  It’s ready, even as a beta, so go for it.

Yes, you have to go looking for the new Firefox. If you want something snuck in without much conscious action, just try updating your iTunes these days, and you likely get the new Safari. Haven't tried it; will stick with Firefox thanks.