Many users of Google Chrome are currently facing an issue with a popular ad-blocking extension called uBlock Origin. Reports on platforms like Reddit indicate that users have noticed that uBlock Origin no longer functions properly in Chrome. It’s been evident for some time that both uBlock Origin and various other extensions would eventually stop working in Chrome, but the changes are now starting to take effect.
The reason for uBlock Origin and similar extensions becoming inactive is due to Chrome transitioning to a new standard called Manifest V3 for its extensions. This change began several years ago, and developers have been given time to adjust their extensions from the previous version, Manifest V2, to this new version. Manifest V3 is designed to make extensions safer and more efficient, but it comes with certain drawbacks as well.
One major disadvantage is that Manifest V3 imposes restrictions on the WebRequest API, which is crucial for how uBlock Origin functions. This API enables uBlock Origin to block ads and other unwanted content before it even gets loaded on a webpage. Since this support is now absent, uBlock Origin cannot operate effectively on Chrome.
As a result, many Chrome users are already unable to use uBlock Origin, and this issue is expected to spread to more users soon. If you rely heavily on this extension and want to ensure your ad-blocking needs are met, it may be worth considering using a different web browser—specifically, Firefox. Mozilla, the company behind Firefox, has stated they will continue to support the WebRequest API, even with Manifest V3. This means that users of uBlock Origin and other similar content blockers will still be able to use them without any issues in Firefox.
In a blog post, Mozilla mentioned their commitment to maximizing compatibility with other browsers while keeping essential features available for content blockers. This demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that users have access to effective privacy tools.
On the other hand, Microsoft Edge is also moving toward supporting only Manifest V3, with plans to phase out support for Manifest V2 extensions, including uBlock Origin. Although Microsoft stopped accepting new Manifest V2 extensions in July 2022, the timeline for when existing extensions will completely stop functioning remains unclear. For now, enterprise users may still have some leeway, but eventually, all Manifest V2 extensions will be disabled in Microsoft Edge.
For those who are not keen on switching to Firefox, there are alternative options available for ad blocking. One option is uBlock Origin Lite, which is designed to work with Manifest V3. However, it does not offer all the benefits and controls of the original uBlock Origin. Nonetheless, it has received a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 in the Chrome Web Store.
Additionally, users can consider other content blockers like AdGuard, which has also been well-reviewed. Many modern browsers, such as Brave, Firefox, and Edge, come with built-in ad blockers that can provide an adequate level of protection against ads.
In summary, as uBlock Origin and similar extensions face challenges with the shift to Manifest V3, users may need to seek alternatives or switch to different browsers to keep their browsing experience ad-free.