Chrome's manifest v3 ends uBlock Origin support; users adapt

The uBlock Origin blocker is no longer supported by Google Chrome and, as a result, fails to block unwanted content. Users are encouraged to explore alternative tools, such as uBlock Origin Lite—a new version of the tool, theoretically the successor of the original. However, Manifest V3 restricts the extension's ability to operate as effectively as it did under the older extension management rules.

Further details about the changes are available in the comprehensive documentation on GitHub. From the perspective of a typical user who simply wants to block unwanted ads online, installing uBlock Origin Lite based on Manifest V3 or another blocker compliant with the new regulations may suffice. According to the creators of uBlock Origin, the new Manifest in Chrome differs significantly from the previous version, meaning that automatic updating of the extension to the new "Lite" version cannot be enforced. Users must make this change manually.

Manifest V3 is introduced by Google in Chrome, limiting extensions' access to certain APIs. As a result, they cannot function as efficiently, particularly affecting unwanted content blockers. The creators plainly state that content filtering will not work as effectively, and modifying existing extensions may not be cost-effective. In some cases, abandoning the project or creating new extensions may be preferable.

Users of other browsers do not need to take such drastic measures. Firefox, at present, continues to operate using Manifest V2, and Mozilla has already declared in 2023 a smart approach that will not exclude the operation of currently functioning extensions if a newer system is implemented. For users dedicated to their favourite extensions, this may be an opportunity to change habits and switch to other software potentially.