Google pulls the plug on uBlock Origin, leaving over 30 million Chrome users susceptible to intrusive ads

Google pulls the plug on uBlock Origin, leaving over 30 million Chrome users susceptible to intrusive ads

What you need to know

  • Google is transitioning Chrome’s extension support from the Manifest V2 framework to the V3.
  • This means users won’t be able to use uBlock Origin to block ads on Google Chrome.
  • However, there’s a new iteration of the app — uBlock Origin Lite, which is Manifest V3 compliant but doesn’t boast the original version’s comprehensive ad-blocking features.

As a seasoned analyst with over two decades of experience in the digital landscape, I’ve seen the ebb and flow of tech giants like Google. This latest move by Google to transition Chrome’s extension support from Manifest V2 to V3 is no exception.


Google’s approach towards ad blockers on its platforms has become more assertive, as per a report by PC World. The tech giant has recently implemented changes in the way it supports extensions on Google Chrome.

Google Chrome has shifted its extension support from the older Manifest V2 structure to the latest Manifest V3 structure, which may affect a widely-used adblocker such as uBlock Origin due to browser policy changes.

In simpler terms, the shift to the Manifest V3 framework restricts extensions like uBlock Origin from using external codes for safety reasons. Google states that this policy change is necessary because it prevents unverified code from running within extensions, which could potentially pose security threats. Under the new rules, an extension will only be allowed to execute JavaScript that comes with its own package.

Approximately 30 million Google Chrome users rely on uBlock Origin, but soon, due to an update, this tool will be turned off automatically. However, Google will allow users to reactivate it through settings for a brief period before its permanent removal. After that, users may need to switch to a different browser or find another ad blocker since they won’t have the uBlock Origin option anymore.

A new version of uBlock Origin

Google pulls the plug on uBlock Origin, leaving over 30 million Chrome users susceptible to intrusive ads

As a dedicated researcher of digital solutions, I am thrilled to announce that uBlock Origin enthusiasts can now upgrade to an enhanced edition: uBlock Origin Lite. While this new app retains many of the core features found in the original version, such as ad-blocking capabilities, it does not support dynamic filters for blocking scriptlet injection due to its alignment with the Manifest V3 framework limitations. Keep in mind that these restrictions lead to somewhat limited functionalities compared to the full version, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a more streamlined experience.

According to uBlock Origin’s developer Raymond Hill

“In my opinion, uBO Lite is distinct enough from uBO that it’s not an immediate swap. To find a suitable alternative for uBO, you should look for a content blocker based on your specific needs and preferences. It’s possible that uBO Lite meets those expectations, but it might not always be the case.”

uBlock Origin will carry on functioning seamlessly across various web browsers, such as Microsoft Edge, Opera, and others.

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2024-08-13 13:39