Google's Chrome Browser to Phase Out Ad-Blocking Extensions

Major Changes Coming Next Week

Impactful Storytelling

Since June 3, Google has been rolling out a warning accompanying all Manifest V2 extensions, signaling the upcoming changes in the Chrome browser that will limit ad-blocking extensions.

Google claims to have raised the number of filtering rulesets allowed by Manifest V3, which should help ad blockers operate more effectively. However, critics argue that these changes will not be sufficient to protect user privacy and allow for effective ad blocking.

Google has announced that Manifest V2 extensions will be automatically disabled in their browser and will no longer function. Users will have to switch to alternatives like Firefox or any of its derivatives, such as Brave, to continue using ad-blocking extensions.

Despite protests from users and advocacy groups, Google is rolling out these changes in the Chrome browser, making it harder for users to block unwanted advertisements.

Google's plan to phase out Manifest V2 extensions in Chrome will take effect starting in early June 2024. Users who rely on ad-blocking extensions should prepare to switch to alternative browsers or explore other methods of protecting their privacy and controlling the content they view online.