Google’s latest Chrome update has left many users frustrated, as it disables popular ad-blocking extensions like uBlock Origin. This change is part of Google’s move to a new extension framework called Manifest V3, which the company says is designed to improve security, privacy, and performance. However, the update has also stripped away some key features that ad-blockers rely on, leaving users scrambling for alternatives.
Google Chrome Update
Google’s transition to Manifest V3 significantly shifts how browser extensions operate. The new framework aims to reduce the risks of malicious extensions and protect user data by limiting how extensions interact with web requests. While these changes are meant to enhance security, they’ve also had an unintended consequence, Many ad-blocking extensions, includinguBlock Origin, no longer work as they used to.
Under Manifest V3, extensions can no longer use certain tools to block ads effectively. This has led to a wave of frustration among users who rely on these tools to keep their browsing experience clean and fast.
Google Chrome Update: Ad-Blockers Like uBlock Disabled
If you’re a Chrome user, you may have noticed that some of your favourite ad-blocking extensions have stopped working. A notification in the browser’s extensions tab alerts users that their extensions are no longer supported and have been turned off.
According to a report, any extension that hasn’t been updated to work with Manifest V3 is being disabled. This includes uBlock Origin, which has long been a go-to solution for blocking ads. For many users, this change feels like a step backward, as they’re now left with fewer options to control the ads they see online.
Google Chrome isn’t the only browser impacted by this shift. Other Chromium-based browsers, such as Microsoft Edge, are also phasing out support for older extensions. However, not all browsers are following Google’s lead.
Brave, a browser known for its strong privacy features, has announced it will offer limited support for Manifest V2 extensions even after Google removes them from the Chrome Web Store. Mozilla Firefox has taken a different approach, confirming it will continue to support both Manifest V2 and Manifest V3 extensions. This makes Firefox a standout option for users who want to keep using their favourite ad-blockers without restrictions.
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Ad Blocker Alternatives
If you’re unhappy with Chrome’s changes, there are a few options to consider:
- Switch to Firefox: Mozilla’s commitment to supporting older extensions makes it a great choice for users who want to keep using tools like uBlock Origin.
- Try Brave or Vivaldi: These privacy-focused browsers come with built-in ad-blocking features, so you won’t need to rely on third-party extensions.
- Use uBlock Origin Lite: Google has introduced a lighter version of uBlock Origin that’s compatible with Manifest V3. However, it comes with fewer features and may not be as effective as the original.
Google has defended the move to Manifest V3, arguing that it’s necessary to improve browser security and prevent malicious extensions from exploiting user data. The company believes that the long-term benefits of the update—such as reduced risks of malware and better privacy protections—will outweigh the short-term inconvenience for users.
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