Google Chrome to Cut Off Support for Older Ad Blockers

Google Chrome version 150 and 151, expected in late June and July, respectively, will cut off support for the last remaining workarounds for running older ad blockers, 9to5Google reports. Google phased out support for ad-blocking extensions built for Manifest V2, like uBlock Origin, in 2024. At that point, most Chrome users either switched to newer Manifest V3 ad blockers like uBlock Origin Lite or switched to a different browser.

Google is now removing the final bits of code referencing its previous Manifest V2 extensions platform, so only ad blockers that work on the Manifest V3 platform will work in Chrome version 151 onward. The shift to Manifest V3 has been a significant effort by Google to enhance browser security and performance. By ending support for older ad blockers, Google aims to ensure that users have a more secure and efficient browsing experience.

The move also reflects Google's ongoing efforts to balance user needs with the requirements of content creators and advertisers. As the web evolves, browser developers like Google must continually adapt their approaches to extension development. Why this matters: The discontinuation of support for older ad blockers marks another step in Google's broader strategy to standardize and secure browser extension development.

For developers, this means a clearer path forward for building extensions that meet the latest security and performance standards. For businesses and consumers, it implies a more streamlined and secure browsing experience, with potentially fewer vulnerabilities associated with outdated ad-blocking technologies. However, this change may also raise questions about the future of ad-blocking on Chrome and whether Manifest V3 ad blockers can effectively meet user demands for comprehensive ad-blocking capabilities.

As the web continues to evolve, the interplay between browser developers, ad-blocking technology providers, and content creators will remain a critical area to watch.