Google Chrome's Ad Blockers to Stop Working in 2024: Which Browser to Switch To
Date: 2023-11-25 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: TECHNOLOGY
The End of Chrome's Ad Blockers
In a significant development for web browsing, Google has announced changes that will render ad-blocking extensions ineffective by the summer of 2024. This alteration, shifting Chrome to the Manifest V3 platform, is poised to affect not only ad blockers but also other browsers operating on the Chromium engine, including Edge and Opera.
Manifest V3: Optimizing Security or Silencing Ad Blockers?
The transition from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3 claims to optimize and secure the outdated API. However, industry experts, as reported by TechRadar, speculate that this move primarily targets ad blockers, causing concern among users who heavily rely on these extensions.
Google, not only a search giant but also heavily reliant on advertisement revenue, perceives ad blockers as a detriment to their business. Recent actions, including YouTube (a Google subsidiary) declaring war on ad-blocking software earlier this month, underscore this standpoint.
Potential Risks and Concerns
Experts fear that the updated Chrome might not only lack positive improvements but could potentially harm users. Disabling ad blockers may also deactivate plugins responsible for content filtration on websites, encompassing functionalities like parental controls and antivirus features. Consequently, apart from intrusive ads, advertisements might carry harmful programs, posing risks beyond Google's ability to curb their spread.
Moreover, the update's ramifications extend to other Chromium-based browsers. Thus, alternatives like Edge or Opera might not be viable replacements due to similar underlying infrastructures.
Best Alternatives to Google Chrome
For those seeking refuge from impending advertising woes, exploring alternative browsers becomes imperative. Firefox stands out as a robust substitute, boasting superior privacy protection coupled with remarkable flexibility and cross-platform support.
Additionally, experts highlight Brave, DuckDuckGo, and Safari as competent replacements for Chrome's ad-blocking functionality.
Market Dynamics
Data from October 2023 reveals Google Chrome's dominance, commanding over 63% of the browser market. Safari follows with a more modest 20%, while Microsoft Edge trails with a mere 5.5% market share.
