Firefox releases a new Social API and a preview of the first social integration with Facebook Messenger for Firefox.

Much like the OpenSearch standard, Mozilla’s new Social API lets social services integrate into Firefox in a compelling way and makes it easier to use the Web the way you want. The Social API includes features like a social sidebar, toolbar notification buttons and the ability to easily chat with your friends no matter where you are on the Web.

As services integrate with Firefox via the Social API sidebar, it will be easy for you to keep up with friends and family without having to switch between or open new tabs. You can stay connected to your favorite social site even while you are surfing the Web, watching a video or playing a game.

We are excited to offer a preview of our first social integration with Facebook Messenger for Firefox. To test it out, just upgrade to the latest Firefox and then visit the Facebook Messenger for Firefox page and click “Turn On.”

Once you enable the feature, you’ll get a social sidebar with your Facebook chat and updates, like new comments and photo tags. You’ll also get notifications for messages, friend requests and more that you can respond to right from your Firefox toolbar.

Today’s Social API is just the beginning of making Firefox more social. We’ll soon add support for more features and multiple providers. We’ll also be listening to feedback from our early users to understand how Firefox can do more to keep them connected to their social lives online.