news Microsoft begins turning off uBlock Origin and other extensions in Edge

[Cpvr]

If you use the uBlock Origin extension in Google Chrome or Edge, you should probably start looking for alternative browsers or extensions—either way. A few days ago, users noticed that Google had begun disabling uBlock Origin and other Manifest V2-based extensions as part of the migration to Manifest V3. Now, Microsoft Edge appears to be following suit.

The latest Edge Canary version started disabling Manifest V2-based extensions with the following message: "This extension is no longer supported. Microsoft Edge recommends that you remove it." Although the browser turns off old extensions without asking, you can still make them work by clicking "Manage extension" and toggling it back (you will have to acknowledge another prompt).


At this point, it is not entirely clear what is going on. Google started phasing out Manifest V2 extensions in June 2024, and it has a clear roadmap for the process. Microsoft's documentation, however, still says "TBD," so the exact dates are not known yet. This leads to some speculating about the situation being one of "unexpected changes" coming from Chromium. Either way, sooner or later, Microsoft will ditch MV2-based extensions, so get ready as we wait for Microsoft to shine some light on its plans.

Another thing worth noting is that the change does not appear to be affecting Edge's stable release or Beta/Dev Channels. For now, only Canary versions disable uBlock Origin and other MV2 extensions, leaving users a way to toggle them back on. Also, the uBlock Origin is still available in the Edge Add-ons store, which recently received a big update.

In August 2024, when Google started flagging uBlock Origin as unsupported, the extension's maker stepped in and recommended users switch to uBlock Origin Lite, a Manifest V3-based extension, and accept some of its limitations. Another option is to switch to Firefox. Mozilla recently announced its plans to keep Manifest V2 extensions working, including uBlock Origin, based on Mozilla Manifesto, which claims that "individuals must have the ability to shape the internet and their own experiences on it."

Now, users can either switch to a browser that still supports MV2 extensions or move to MV3-based ad blockers. Of course, not all MV2 extensions have "more modern" versions, so for many, switching to Firefox or another browser with MV2 support will be the only option to keep old extensions working.


Source: https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-begins-turning-off-ublock-origin-and-other-extensions-in-edge/

 

[Ashake]

This is a major blow to the users. I do believe that there should be ways around this decision. But there seems to be a hint of Edge push toward Manifest V3 extensions, which may not cater to the needs of the user in terms of functionality.

 

[Shawn]

It's a blow to users who don't want to see ads but it could be good for websites trying to stay online with ads.

I have mixed feelings. I've never tried to restrict those using ad-blockers but eventually stuff like that might lead to more website closures and social media being your only option for information which is great for them, bad for the little guy.

 

[Unvarnished]

Seems like the axe is falling on uBlock Origin and others. I found Microsoft taking such a decision because they're all-in for that Manifest V3. Maybe it is time to check and evaluate alternative browsers-or even extensions.

 

[Reelz]

To me, this is absurd despite the improvement it brings to the table. The implementation of Manifest V3 extension changes has been underway for some time now while Google and Microsoft are quietly making moves to eliminate old extensions.

Well, I still find it interesting to see how new extensions will develop to replace the lost functionality of uBlock Origin even though the present situation creates inconveniences.

 

[lens]

This modification gives me serious doubts. The restrictions in Manifest V3 extension functionality could affect our capacity to personalize and protect our browser because uBlock Origin is an essential security tool for numerous users.

I'm left in the dark as to the whole idea about this change. It will definitely have consequences on the users. I just hope that it won't be too much to bear.