Starting in June 2024, Google Chrome will implement significant changes to its extension system. Chrome will transition from using Manifest V2 to Manifest V3. According to Google, this update aims to enhance security, privacy, and performance for users.
Impact of Manifest V3 on Ad Blockers
One of the key changes brought by Manifest V3 is the new restrictions on how extensions can access certain data within the browser. These restrictions make it more difficult for ad blockers to function as effectively as they did before.
Popular ad blockers like uBlock Origin are developing versions compatible with Manifest V3, such as uBO Lite. However, these new versions may face some limitations compared to the previous versions, meaning they might not work as efficiently.
Users who heavily rely on these tools should be prepared to adapt to the new situation or look for alternative solutions. One option is to switch to the Firefox browser instead of Chrome. Another viable alternative is the Brave browser. Although it is based on Chromium and functions similarly to Chrome, Brave offers a built-in ad blocker, eliminating the need to download an ad-blocking extension from the Chrome Web Store.
We also recommend using the following extensions to enhance security and privacy while browsing the internet:
- uBlock Origin: This ad blocker allows you to browse without pop-ups or other advertisements.
- Privacy Badger: Prevents advertisers and others from tracking your browsing activities.
- Decentraleyes: Protects against online trackers to enhance your privacy.
In related news, YouTube has already started taking strict measures against users of ad blockers. Some users have reported unusual behavior while browsing YouTube with ad blockers enabled, such as videos skipping to the end or the sound being muted automatically.
