FF is my browser of choice and has been for a few years now, their version numbering is slightly unconventional in that they step up in whole numbers even if, in my opinion, the changes are only 'point release'. I.e. v1.6 to v1.7.
In programming the difference between a major release and a minor release is the compatibility of the Application Programming Interface. A minor release normally conserves compatibility while for a major release any plugins need to be recompiled to ensure continuing compatibility and any problems corrected.
Consequently a minor release places impediments on the program designer to change how the program works. Allowing changes at the interface facilitates faster development. This is why Firefox has decided to only make major releases.
However rapid cycle major releases places a burden on the plugin developers. It has put some developers off maintaining their plugins because it is too much work.
It has other drawbacks. Major changes to the API introduce greater potential for new bugs.
At least Mozilla inform users when it's going to be updated - Chrome in the few years that it has been around is already up to v22, Google doesn't tend to advertise the updates.
p.s. FF17 is on 27 Nov, FF18 on 8 Jan, FF19 on 19 Feb.
ethandron...I have now replied to your posting in 'Food and Drink' and, as you have made reference to your now using an iPad, it would be interesting to know what Browser does it have.? The following may be of interest to you:-
Ours is safari (I've been reliably informed), no plans to change it apparently as it does the job. Thanks for the link, my techie person found it very interesting. I had to wait till he'd finished cutting the grass to find out what browser we have, or indeed what a browser is ;) x