The Google Chrome browser, updated to the latest version, began warning uBlock Origin users about the need to switch to other ad blockers due to the upcoming disabling of Manifest v2 sample extensions.
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The original uBlock Origin extension has the Manifest v2 format, but there is no fully functional version for Manifest v3 – the new sample format only supports uBlock Origin Lite with reduced capabilities, explained its developer Raymond Hill. Google intends to disable support for Manifest v2 in Chrome, so the browser suggests switching to more modern alternatives: the aforementioned uBlock Origin Lite, as well as Adblock Plus, Stands AdBlocker or Ghostery.
After updating to Chrome 127, a warning banner appears on the browser extensions page for all Manifest v2 titles. Chrome Beta, Dev, and Canary preview users will see these warnings starting June 3, 2024. In the coming months, the company will disable support for Manifest v2 in the browser by default, but will temporarily leave the option to enable it manually, and then it will no longer be available. Users of legacy extensions will be directed to the Chrome Web Store, where they will be offered alternatives. The transition to Manifest v2 for users of the consumer version of Chrome Stable is expected to be completed by early 2025.
Chrome enterprise users with the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy deployed will be able to use Manifest v2 extensions on Linux, Mac, Windows, and ChromeOS until June 2025. Google announced the launch of Manifest V3 with the release of Chrome 88 in December 2020. The new standard has resulted in serious technical problems for extension developers – mainly those who require broad control over browser functions.