uBlock Origin No Longer Supported On Chrome

Why is uBlock Origin No Longer Supported on Chrome?

uBlock Origin was removed from the Chrome Web Store due to Google's transition from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3.

Manifest V3 is a new extension framework designed to protect user security and privacy by limiting the execution of remote code. This change has affected many popular extensions that relied on the older Manifest V2 framework.

As a result, users will need to switch to a different ad blocker if they continue using Chrome, one which is compatible with Manifest V3 but offers fewer features.

We've written previously about Google's upcoming changes to adblock extensions and the technical changes they include.

Are All Adblockers Affected?

Many users have expressed frustration as uBlock Origin is no longer supported.

They have also complained that uBlock Origin is not working as expected — or just outright disabled — due to recent changes in Chrome's extension policies.

Recent Chrome versions will show the message, This extension is no longer supported. Chrome recommends that you remove them.

The uBlock Origin subreddit includes temporary workarounds to re-enable the extension until June 2025. However, these fixes are a stopgap solution rather than a long-term replacement for deprecated ad blockers.

Best uBlock Origin Replacements

uBlock Origin Chrome users are now exploring other extensions that offer similar functionality under the new framework.

Manifest V3 impacts adblockers by imposing restrictions on how they can filter content. Some adblocker adapted to the manifest. We'll recommend the top three alternatives if you're wanting to stick with Chrome.

1) Ghostery Tracker & Ad Blocker

Ghostery has been around since 2009. Ghostery easily blocks ads, stops trackers, and speeds up websites.

What's more, Ghostery automatically blocks annoying cookie consent notices and prevents Google from redirecting search result links through their servers.

We also offer a private search engine and a tool called WhoTracks.Me to provide insights into online tracking.

All this on top of a great ad blocking experience. For free.

2) uBlock Origin Lite

uBlock Origin Lite works within Manifest V3 constraints, but requires adjustments to match the experience of its original version.

This is because uBlock Origin Lite needs additional permissions to use advanced filters. You can do this by changing the default filtering mode for all websites or adjusting filtering modes for specific sites as needed.

Check out the FAQ on the differences between uBlock Origin and uBlock Origin Lite.

Ghostery works instantly without requiring you to toggle between filtering modes like uBlock Origin Lite. You can also compare uBlock Origin Lite and Ghostery to see which is best for you moving forward.

3) AdGuard AdBlocker

AdGuard also made their extension Manfiest V3 compliant in late 2024. AdGuard remains effective in blocking ads and trackers under the new conditions.

However, similar to uBlock Origin Lite, you'll need to dive into the settings to get all the benefits.

AdGuard only blocks ads when you first install it. The extension won't block trackers, annoyances, or security threats without tinkering with the settings.

Moving away from Chrome

There are some filtering capabilities which can't be moved over to Manifest V3 adblockers. If you're an advanced user with lots of customized settings, you can migrate over to Firefox.

Firefox (and browsers built on Firefox) are the last remaining browsers that will support uBlock Origin fully. Adblockers are not restricted in Firefox like they will be in Chrome moving forward.

How to switch from Chrome to Firefox

Does Ghostery Adblocker Work on YouTube?

Yes, Ghostery works on YouTube. Our extension still removes YouTube ads so you can watch without interruptions.

Note that YouTube continues to fight back against ad blockers, so blocking ads remains a cat-and-mouse game.

Summary

The fact that uBlock Origin is no longer supported has disgruntled many long-time Chrome users, who now need to adapt to new ad-blocking tools.

Manifest V3 has led to the removal of uBlock Origin from the Chrome Web Store, but alternatives like Ghostery and uBlock Origin Lite are the best solutions.

As always, get in touch with our team if you have any questions.