Google is Phasing Out uBlock Origin on Chrome: What Users Need to Know
Google is disabling the original uBlock Origin ad blocker for more Chrome users, alongside other extensions that are no longer supported as the browser transitions to Manifest V3, its new extension specification. While Google claims that Manifest V3 is intended to improve privacy and security, it also removes a key feature that ad blockers rely on, significantly affecting their functionality. Meanwhile, Mozilla has stated that it will continue supporting both Manifest V2 and V3 in its Firefox browser.
How Google’s Changes Impact uBlock Origin Users
1. Disabling of uBlock Origin
Many Chrome users have reported via Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) that their browsers are automatically disabling outdated extensions. When Chrome detects an unsupported extension, users see a notification prompting them to remove the impacted add-on, stating that it has been turned off and is “no longer supported.” They are then given two options: delete the extension or manage their settings.
2. Gradual Phaseout Since October
Google began phasing out Manifest V2 extensions, including uBlock Origin, in October 2023. However, its impact has grown more noticeable in recent weeks. Reports from Bleeping Computer and other tech publications confirm that Chrome users, including staff at The Verge, are seeing their extensions automatically disabled.
3. The Shift to Manifest V3 and Its Consequences
With the transition to Manifest V3, Google is enforcing stricter extension policies, eliminating support for older APIs that ad blockers like uBlock Origin rely on. As a result:
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uBlock Origin will no longer function on Chrome.
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Users will be forced to switch to uBlock Origin Lite, which offers more limited filtering capabilities due to Manifest V3’s ad blocking restrictions.
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Other Chromium-based browsers like Microsoft Edge will also be affected.
4. Firefox: A Potential Alternative for Users
Unlike Google, Mozilla has announced that it will continue to support both Manifest V2 and V3 in its Firefox browser. This means that Firefox users can continue using the full-featured uBlock Origin without restrictions. Brave, another Chromium-based browser, has stated that it will provide only limited support once Manifest V2 extensions are removed entirely from the Chrome Web Store.
What Can Users Do?
If you’re a Chrome user relying on uBlock Origin, here are some options:
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Switch to uBlock Origin Lite – Though limited, it still provides basic ad-blocking functionality.
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Migrate to Mozilla Firefox – Since Firefox will continue supporting Manifest V2, users can maintain their original ad-blocking experience.
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Explore alternative browsers – Privacy-focused browsers like Brave or Vivaldi may offer partial solutions to Manifest V3’s limitations.
Conclusion
The Manifest V3 rollout marks a major shift in Chrome’s extension ecosystem, significantly impacting ad blockers like uBlock Origin. While Google frames the update as an improvement in security and privacy, many users see it as a move that ultimately benefits advertisers. If you’re an avid uBlock Origin user, now might be the time to consider switching browsers to continue enjoying an unrestricted ad-free experience.
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