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Google has disabled uBlock Origin on Chrome as part of its transition to Manifest V3, changing how browser extensions operate. The update limits the effectiveness of ad blockers by restricting access to certain APIs. As a result, many users are now searching for alternative ways to block ads, including switching to other browsers or using compliant extensions like uBlock Origin Lite.
The Manifest V3 update aims to improve browser security. It restricts extensions from using certain APIs and therefore makes it harder for ad blockers to function. The new rules also prevent extensions from remotely hosting code, increasing Google’s control over Chrome Web Store submissions. Many users have reported seeing messages stating that their extensions are "no longer supported."
Some ad blockers have responded to the changes. uBlock Origin Lite is a lightweight version of the original version. The version can be used as an alternative and it is still functional. The only limitation is its limited functionality. There are several others such as AdGuard, Ghostery and AdBlock Plus. These extensions are compliant with Manifest V3 and are still available on Chrome.
The change has implications beyond ad blockers. Some other extensions that used the old Web Request API are also impacted. Now, users seeking an effective way to keep blocking ads are looking into switching to other browsers.
Many users choose Mozilla Firefox as the preferred alternative because this browser maintains support for uBlock Origin. Opera, Brave and Vivaldi have dedicated themselves to upholding their support for specific ad blocker functionality. Vivaldi’s support for Manifest V2 extension infrastructure is scheduled to end in June 2025.
VPN services with ad-blocking features such as NordVPN and Surfshark offer another alternative. Some users are also exploring domain blockers like Pi-hole, only that these come with a few limitations.
Google’s crackdown on ad blockers comes after its previous restrictions on YouTube ad-blocking extensions. As Chrome users adjust to these new changes, solutions for effective ad-blocking continue to be sourced. Users now face major changes in their ability to manage their online experience as Chrome implements Manifest V3.
