Google Postpones Manifest V3 Rollout: What it Means for Ad Blockers and Chrome Users

Google has once again delayed the rollout of Manifest V3, its controversial new browser extension platform. But what does this mean for your favorite ad blockers and your browsing experience? Let's break down the changes, the concerns, and what alternatives you have.

What is Manifest V3 and Why the Controversy?

Manifest V3 is the latest version of Google Chrome's browser extension API, intended to replace Manifest V2. While Google claims it will improve privacy, security, and performance, many developers and privacy advocates disagree.

• The Core Issue: Manifest V3 changes how ad blockers function, potentially making them less effective.
• How it Works: V3 limits the use of webRequest API, which ad blockers use to block HTTP requests. Instead, it relies on declarativeNetRequest, which uses a pre-defined list of URLs to block.
• The Problem: declarativeNetRequest has a limit of 30,000 URLs, a fraction of the 300,000 URLs that many ad blockers currently use.

Why the Delay? What's the New Timeline?

Google initially planned to phase out Manifest V2 in January 2023, but has repeatedly pushed back the deadline. The current status is indefinite, with Google planning to provide an updated deprecation plan by March 2023.

• Original Deadline: January 2023
• First Delay: June 2023 (forbidding public visibility of Manifest V2 extensions)
• Second Delay: January 2024 (removal of Manifest V2 extensions from Chrome Web Store)
• Current Status: Indefinitely delayed as of December 2022

This delay is due to feedback from developers who face challenges migrating to V3, specifically issues with the service worker's inability to use DOM capabilities and limitations on extension service worker lifetimes.

How Does Manifest V3 Affect Ad Blockers?

The limitations imposed by Manifest V3 significantly impact ad blocker functionality. Here's how:

• Reduced Effectiveness: Ad blockers may not be able to block as many ads and trackers due to the URL limit.
• Impact on Dynamic Rules: Creating custom filters becomes more difficult, limiting user control.
• Community Filter Development: It restricts the ability of individual users to create and share custom filters.

AdGuard, a popular ad blocker, has found ways to work within Manifest V3's limits, but acknowledges the restrictions on filtering quality and user experience.

The Debate: Privacy, Security, or Profit?

Critics argue that Manifest V3 benefits Google's advertising business more than users' privacy and security.

• Google's Stance: Claims V3 improves privacy, security, and performance.
• Critics' View: Argue it limits user choice and harms privacy by reducing the effectiveness of ad blockers.
• The Conflict of Interest: A significant portion of Google's revenue comes from advertising, raising questions about their motives.

Alternative Browsers to Consider

If you're concerned about the impact of Manifest V3 on ad blocking, consider these alternative browsers:

• Brave: Has built-in ad blocking and will continue to support Manifest V2 alongside V3.
• Firefox: Will extend support for Manifest V3 without ending support for V2.
• Vivaldi: Supports Manifest V3 without dropping support for V2.

These browsers offer more flexibility and prioritize user privacy, giving you more control over your browsing experience.

What's Next? Stay Tuned

The future of Manifest V3 is uncertain. Google's delay suggests they are facing challenges in balancing their interests with the needs of developers and users. Keep an eye out for updates in March 2023, when Google is expected to release a new timeline.

In the meantime, explore alternative browsers and ad blockers to protect your privacy and enjoy an ad-free browsing experience.