Mozilla to Shut Down Pocket Read-It-Later App

Mozilla to Discontinue Pocket and Fakespot

On Thursday, Mozilla announced the forthcoming closure of Pocket, the read-it-later application it purchased in 2017. The shutdown is scheduled for July 8th. Simultaneously, the company will also be discontinuing Fakespot, a browser extension designed to detect untrustworthy online reviews.

Pocket's Legacy and Future Plans

According to a statement published on Mozilla’s blog, Pocket has successfully assisted millions in saving articles and uncovering valuable content. However, the company asserts that user behavior on the internet has undergone significant changes.

Consequently, Mozilla is redirecting its efforts towards initiatives that align more closely with contemporary browsing patterns and online requirements.

Timeline for Pocket Users

The Pocket app and its associated browser extensions will remain functional until July 8th. Following this date, the service will transition into an export-only mode.

Users will have until October 8th to export their saved articles. This includes all items within their lists, archives, favorites, notes, and highlighted sections.

Rationale Behind the Decisions

While Mozilla refrained from detailing a precise reason for Pocket’s discontinuation, the company emphasized its ongoing commitment to facilitating the discovery and access of high-quality web content.

This will be achieved through enhancements to its New Tab experience, its email newsletter, and other related projects.

Fakespot's Closure Explained

Regarding Fakespot, Mozilla explained that despite the appeal of the concept, a sustainable business model could not be established. Therefore, the service will be retired.

User Reaction and Mozilla's Vision

Although the exact number of Pocket users remains undisclosed, the service had amassed a dedicated following. Disappointment regarding the news has been expressed by users on various social media platforms.

“This strategic shift empowers us to define the future of the internet,” Mozilla stated. “We are focused on developing tools such as vertical tabs, intelligent search, and further AI-powered functionalities.”

Mozilla intends to continue developing a browser that is more personalized, more robust, and remains steadfastly independent.