Google Chrome users may soon be facing a dilemma as the popular ad blocker uBlock Origin and other extensions are at risk of being blocked due to Google’s deprecation of the Manifest V2 extension specification. The Chrome Web Store is now issuing warnings that these extensions may no longer be supported because they do not adhere to the best practices for Chrome extensions.
The warning on the Chrome Web Store page for uBlock Origin states, “This extension may soon no longer be supported because it doesn’t follow best practices for Chrome extensions.” This message is accompanied by a link to a Google support bulletin that emphasizes the need for extensions to be up-to-date with new requirements to protect users’ privacy and security.
According to Google’s support bulletin, Chrome may disable extensions that fail to meet these requirements in order to ensure the privacy and security of its users. The recent warnings have caused concern among Chrome users who rely on uBlock Origin and other affected extensions to enhance their browsing experience.
Users on X first reported the new warnings, prompting speculation about the future support for these extensions. While some users saw a message on the Chrome Web Store stating that the extension is no longer available, others, like those at BleepingComputer, did not encounter this alert and instead received the warning mentioned earlier.
In response to the impending deprecation of the Manifest V2 extension specification, Google is urging users to consider alternative ad blockers that support Manifest V3, such as Hill’s uBlock Origin Lite. However, many Chrome users have expressed their intent to switch to other browsers if uBlock Origin is blocked, highlighting the importance of these extensions in their daily browsing routines.
It is important to note that there is no inherent insecurity with uBlock Origin and other extensions displaying these alerts. The warnings are simply a result of Google’s transition from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3, which introduces new requirements and guidelines for Chrome extensions.
The lead developer of uBlock Origin, Raymond Hill, clarified that the browser’s warnings are related to the deprecation of Manifest V2 in favor of Manifest V3. As a Manifest V2 extension, uBlock Origin is being phased out in compliance with Google’s updated extension specifications.
While alternative versions like uBlock Origin Lite aim to offer a similar ad-blocking experience, some users may find that they require more advanced filtering or specific functionalities that are limited in the Manifest V3 version. As a result, users are encouraged to explore their options and understand the differences between the two versions to make an informed decision.
Despite the upcoming deprecation of Manifest V2, users can still use the extension until June 2025 through the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy, which allows for continued support on various operating systems. Additionally, alternative browsers like Firefox, Brave Browser, and Vivaldi have expressed their commitment to supporting Chrome Manifest V2, providing users with options to continue using uBlock Origin without disruption.
In conclusion, the warnings issued by the Chrome Web Store regarding uBlock Origin and other extensions signal a pivotal moment for Chrome users who rely on these tools for a seamless browsing experience. While the transition to Manifest V3 may present challenges for extension developers and users alike, there are alternative solutions and policies in place to mitigate any potential disruptions. By staying informed and exploring options, users can adapt to the changing landscape of Chrome extensions and continue to enjoy a safe and secure browsing experience.