It was unfortunate news for some Google Chrome users today as they encountered a message indicating that uBlock Origin extension has stopped functioning on their browser, according to multiple Reddit users. For some time now, it had been predicted that uBlock Origin and various other extensions would cease to work on Chrome, but it appears the deadline is now taking effect.
The phased implementation means that uBlock Origin and certain other extensions might still function on Google Chrome for a while. However, it’s important to note that Google Chrome will eventually disable the extension in the near term. Similarly, other browsers plan to halt the functionality of uBlock Origin as well.
What happened to uBlock Origin?
It seems that the reason uBlock Origin isn’t functioning properly on Google Chrome for several users is due to Chrome transitioning to Manifest Version 3 (Manifest 3) for its extensions. This shift began some time ago, but it has been a gradual process because developers required ample time to transfer their extension codes from the older Manifest V2 to the newer Manifest V3 format.
Manifest V3 represents a secure and private extension development framework within Google Chrome. It’s designed to enhance the performance of extensions created with it, compared to their counterparts built on Manifest V2. However, transitioning from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3 offers numerous advantages but also comes with some potential drawbacks.
A significant alteration is that Manifest V3 restricts the use of the WebRequest API, a key tool for uBlock Origin. This API enables uBlock Origin to prevent specific content from loading prior to its being displayed.
Without WebRequest API support, uBlock Origin is unable to work.
Does uBlock Origin still work on Chrome?
It looks like Google Chrome users may soon find themselves unable to utilize uBlock Origin. Unfortunately, a significant number of users have already encountered issues using this ad-blocker due to ongoing updates that prevent its operation. These changes, which are being implemented progressively, are causing uBlock Origin to stop functioning on the platform.
For individuals who depend on uBlock Origin, choosing Firefox could be the most secure option. Mozilla, the creators of Firefox, plan to keep supporting the WebRequest API, even with Manifest V3. This implies that content blockers like uBlock Origin, which rely on the WebRequest API, will still function effectively within Firefox.
Mozilla explains the situation in a blog post:
Mozilla intends to keep WebRequest blockage in its Version 3 (MV3) while also introducing support for declarativeNetRequest. This move aims to align with other browsers and ensure compatibility. We will collaborate with content blocker developers and other significant users of this API to explore suitable alternatives when necessary. Content blocking is a crucial aspect of extensions, and we are dedicated to providing Firefox users with top-tier privacy tools.
It seems that Mozilla is particularly dedicated to making sure content blockers function effectively, whereas other browsers are transitioning to Manifest V3 and do not currently appear to be planning on maintaining support for the WebRequest API.
Does uBlock Origin work on Microsoft Edge?
It appears that Microsoft Edge is planning to stop supporting Manifest V2 extensions, although their timeline might differ from Google’s schedule.
Microsoft stopped accepting Manifest V2 extensions in July 2022, but the chart with a timeline lists “TBD” for the next stages. Below is a copy of the table from that document:
As a tech enthusiast,
At some point down the line, Microsoft is planning to phase out support for Manifest V2 extensions within their Edge browser. However, this won’t happen immediately for our valued enterprise customers; they’ll still be able to use these extensions during an unspecified period. Yet, it’s crucial to note that eventually, even enterprise users will no longer be able to run Manifest V2 extensions within Edge.
Unfortunately, Microsoft has not shared dates on its timeline.
uBlock Origin alternatives
If you’re not keen on Firefox and looking for alternatives to uBlock Origin, consider uBlock Origin Lite. It’s compatible with Manifest V3 but may not offer all the fine-tuning options found in the original uBlock Origin. Despite its limitations, it still has a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 on the Chrome Web Store.
Additionally, you might opt for a different content filtering tool. There are numerous options available nowadays, each offering varying levels of control. AdGuard, for instance, is highly praised by users and earned 4.5 out of 5 stars in TechRadar’s AdGuard review. Popular browsers like Brave, Firefox, and Edge also come equipped with integrated ad blockers.
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2025-02-25 23:10