Open selected links, developed by c-yan, is a Firefox extension designed to open multiple web addresses from a single text selection. It parses both clickable hyperlinks and plain text URLs, then launches detected addresses into new tabs via a right-click action. Key points include context-menu integration, automatic URL filtering, and a zero-configuration approach. The extension targets researchers, developers, and power users who extract lists of references or unlinked URLs and want a low-friction way to open them all at once.

What the extension does and how it changes browsing

The extension converts a highlighted block of text into multiple browser tabs, using a context-menu command after selection. It recognizes both HTML links and plain text URLs, so users can select forum posts, documentation snippets, or copied lists of addresses and instruct the extension to open every detected address at once. This replaces repetitive clicking when working through collections of references or pasted URL lists.

How much configuration and control it offers

The tool follows a minimalist design and offers no options panel, which keeps interaction simple but limits customization. There are no toolbar icons or adjustable filters; behavior is immediate after installation because the extension uses a zero-configuration model. That design suits people who prefer instant utility, while users who need per-site rules or link-whitelisting do not get built-in controls.

Resource footprint and background presence in the browser

The extension is extremely small, about 11 KB, and requests only minimal browser permissions, so it does not add persistent UI elements to the toolbar. That small installer size and permission scope mean the extension imposes negligible storage footprint and is unlikely to affect tab performance under normal browsing. Its lightweight design aligns with users who avoid bulky add-ons.

Compatibility limits and where it may fail

The extension is offered as a WebExtension for Firefox version 57.0 and later and runs on desktop platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It does not operate on some pages that restrict extensions, for example certain official Mozilla domains, due to browser security restrictions. Historical compatibility notes mention older Firefox for Android releases, but the primary focus is desktop use.

A focused utility for users who accept minimal control

Open selected links is a pragmatic choice for desktop users who need a quick way to turn highlighted text into multiple tabs without adding interface clutter. Its tiny footprint and immediate operation suit workflows that process long lists of references, while the lack of settings means power users who require filtering or per-site exceptions should consider more configurable alternatives. For straightforward batch opening tasks, it is a practical, low-overhead option.