Chrome users worldwide are experiencing a jarring change as Google finalizes its crackdown on uBlock Origin, once the gold standard of ad blocking extensions. Since late February 2025, users have reported their trusted ad blocker being automatically disabled, with Chrome displaying notifications that the extension is "no longer supported." This development marks the culmination of Google's transition to the Manifest V3 extension framework, leaving millions searching for alternatives. Ad blocking adoption has shown consistent growth, with approximately 27% of US internet users employing ad blocking software by 2021. Among technical audiences, this rate reached an impressive 58%, demonstrating strong preference for ad-free browsing experiences. This growth occurred despite increasing resistance from publishers and platform operators concerned about revenue impacts.

Google's Manifest V3: Security Enhancement or Ad Strategy?

Google's justification for disabling uBlock Origin stems from its transition to Manifest V3, a new extension framework positioned as improving security, privacy, and performance. According to Google's official announcements, the changes aim to reduce risks associated with potentially malicious extensions.

The critical change in Manifest V3 involves restrictions on how extensions can intercept and filter web requests – functionality essential for comprehensive ad blockers like uBlock Origin. While Google maintains that content filtering remains possible, critics argue that the implementation severely hampers effectiveness. The Electronic Frontier Foundation described Google's characterization of Manifest V3 as "Deceitful and Threatening," expressing doubt that it would meaningfully improve security. As of March 2025, Google has accelerated the removal process, with users encountering messages stating that uBlock Origin is "no longer supported." While temporary workarounds exist, they're likely to disappear as Google completes its transition.

Brave: The Browser Built for Ad Blocking

Rather than struggling with increasingly limited Chrome extensions, I'm switching to Brave browser which ad blocking. Brave's built-in blocker effectively removes most advertisements, including pop-ups, banners, and even YouTube ads, resulting in cleaner and faster webpage loading. Its tracking protection prevents third parties from monitoring browsing habits, providing significant privacy benefits. With Brave I don't have to be concern over Google conflict of interest with ads.