Some Chrome users have noticed that the uBlock Origin extension no longer works. Developers explain this by the transition to the Manifest V3 specification, which limits the capabilities of ad blockers and other privacy tools based on the older Manifest V2 standard.
Manifest V3 is a new Chrome browser specification aimed at restricting extensions’ access to user network requests, blocking developers from using remote content, and improving overall browser performance. However, these changes reduce the functionality of many extensions, particularly those related to ad blocking and privacy protection, BleepingComputer reports.
Mass Disabling of Extensions Begins
BleepingComputer journalists found that on some of their devices, uBlock Origin was automatically disabled with a notification about the end of support. Users were prompted to either uninstall the extension or visit the extension settings page. Reports of mass disabling of uBlock Origin and other Manifest V2-based extensions have also appeared on Reddit.
Google previously stated that the phasing out of Manifest V2 would occur in stages. Enterprise customers and some users will be able to continue using old extensions until June 2025 through a special group policy. However, for most users, the transition to Manifest V3 has already begun, and Chrome will actively encourage them to use the new extensions.
Alternatives and Future Updates
Users can switch to extensions that support Manifest V3, such as uBlock Origin Lite (uBOL), developed by the creator of uBlock Origin. However, this version offers less flexible filtering capabilities than the full version, notes NIX Solutions.
BleepingComputer has reached out to Google for comments on the situation and the further implementation of Manifest V3 but has not yet received a response. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.