The extension store includes ad-blockers as well. Unfortunately, Google has decided to handicap ad-blockers in the upcoming Chrome release. Since most of the websites, including MSPU, runs on ad-revenue, this move is definitely long overdue for publishers. That said, the internet is filled with websites that fill the screen with ads including those annoying pop-up adverts. When it comes to those websites, it’s necessary to have an ad-blocker to ensure you can get the actual content without getting flooded by advertisements.
The new proposal put forward by Google is called Manifest V3. The new proposal will change the permission system and will remove the webRequest API’s ability to block a request before it’s loaded. Unfortunately, all the ad-blockers that use the webRequest API will stop working once the update is rolled out.
Google has noted earlier that the new protocol dubbed as declarativeNetRequest API will allow ad-blockers to work but it will have limits which will reduce the effectiveness of ad-blockers. Even then, developers will need to release updates to the ad-blockers to make them compatible with the new API.
The controversy here is that users who sought to browse without ad interference might be forced to dump Chrome for other browsers. Google has been in user’s black book with data privacy and protection concerns, this ad interference will further strain the relationship. In fact, Google users might consider porting to Microsoft Edge, Firefox or, Brave even Opera.
These are your alternatives
Brave
If you’re looking for a Chrome-like experience then Brave is the obvious choice. The browser comes with the look and feel of Google Chrome with access to the Chrome Web Store so you can download all the extensions.
Chromium-based Edge
Alternatively, you can also go with the new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge as it has the same Chromium foundation and supports Chrome web extensions including ad-blockers. However, Edge is currently in beta and is not ready for day-to-day use so the best option at the moment is to either switch to Brave or try Mozilla Firefox. Once Microsoft has officially rolled out the new Edge browser, it might be worth trying since it offers the same features as Chrome and has some extra ones from Microsoft.
Firefox
Firefox is the browser least likely to be affected by Google’s changes to the Chromium API. Current ad blockers will remain unaffected and will not need to be rewritten. Firefox has become much faster in recent years after shedding some bloat and despite efforts to monetize the browser with ads it remains an extremely privacy focussed product.
Opera
Opera is another Chromium-based browser that includes numerous features, including a built-in free VPN service which is perfect for circumventing network-based logging. Opera is also able to use Chrome’s extensions which is a real boon. The browser is however currently in Chinese ownership, which has troubled many users concerned about whether to trust Opera with their data.
Source: mspower
