Google Chrome to disable uBlock Origin ad blocker soon
What's the story
Google Chrome is alerting users that the popular ad blocker extension, uBlock Origin (uBO), may soon be deactivated. This decision is part of Google's plan to phase out support for Manifest v2 (MV2) extensions, including uBO, and transition to Manifest v3 (MV3). Raymond Hill, the lead developer of uBlock Origin, confirmed this development by stating that "uBO is a Manifest v2 extension...there is no Manifest v3 version of uBO."
Transition phase
Google recommends alternative ad blockers
In anticipation of the deactivation, Google is advising uBO users to consider other ad blockers. The company has provided a "Find alternative" link that leads to a Chrome Web Store page with suggestions like uBO Lite, Adblock Plus, Stands AdBlocker, and Ghostery. This warning is not limited to uBlock Origin users, but extends to all MV2 extensions after updating to Chrome version 127.
Future steps
Google's plan for MV2 extension deactivation
Over the next few months, Google intends to deactivate any extensions still using the MV2 platform and will prompt users to choose an MV3 alternative. There will be a brief period where users can temporarily reactivate their MV2 extensions, but this choice will eventually be removed.
Rollout plan
Transition to MV3 standard by early 2025
The changes are scheduled to be implemented for all users on the Chrome Stable channel over the coming months. The goal is to complete the transition to the MV3 standard by early 2025. However, businesses using the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy will be exempt from these browser changes until June 2025, when Google begins its enterprise rollout for phasing out MV2 support.