uBlock Origin suddenly says “no longer supported” in Chrome (2025–2026): how to get safe ad blocking back
The problem (and who it hits)
If you opened Google Chrome and saw a warning like “This extension was turned off because it is no longer supported”—often affecting uBlock Origin—you’ve run into a broad change that’s been rolling out across Chrome over the past year.This mainly affects:
- People who use Chrome as their primary browser
- Anyone depending on Manifest V2 extensions (uBlock Origin is the most famous example)
- Students, remote workers, and families who suddenly see more ads, popups, and tracking—and worry their browsing is less safe
Why it’s happening
Chrome is phasing out Manifest V2 and moving extensions to Manifest V3. Google/Chromium says the change is about improving security and privacy, and it changes how extensions can intercept and modify network requests. As part of the rollout, Chrome started disabling Manifest V2 extensions, first with a re-enable toggle, and later without the ability to turn them back on. (blog.chromium.org)Chrome’s own developer documentation states that as of July 24, 2025, Manifest V2 is disabled broadly (and users can no longer turn it back on). (developer.chrome.com)
Meanwhile, Firefox has publicly emphasized that it will support both Manifest V2 and V3 (which is why many users switch when they want full-strength uBlock Origin). (blog.mozilla.org)
Solutions (start with the safest)
Below are practical, low-cost paths—starting with options that don’t involve sketchy downloads.Solution 1 (recommended for most people): Switch to a Manifest V3-compatible blocker in Chrome
If you want to stay on Chrome, you’ll likely need an ad blocker built for Manifest V3.Option A: uBlock Origin Lite
1. Open Chrome → Extensions.
2. Remove/disable the old uBlock Origin if Chrome won’t allow it.
3. Install uBlock Origin Lite from the Chrome Web Store.
4. Open the extension’s settings and choose the strongest mode you’re comfortable with (more blocking can sometimes break sites).
Why this works: uBlock Origin Lite is designed to run within Manifest V3 constraints, while classic uBlock Origin relied on Manifest V2 capabilities. (androidauthority.com)
Option B: Use another reputable MV3 blocker
Some privacy companies publish MV3-compatible blockers that may meet your needs. Be sure you’re installing the official extension from the official publisher (avoid “repacked” extensions). (ghostery.com)
Solution 2 (best for power users): Switch browsers to keep full uBlock Origin
If you specifically want the original uBlock Origin’s feature set and flexibility, the most stable approach is switching browsers.Firefox approach (common choice)
1. Install Firefox.
2. Import bookmarks/passwords from Chrome (Firefox offers an import flow).
3. Install uBlock Origin in Firefox.
4. Keep Chrome for sites that require it, but do daily browsing in Firefox.
Mozilla has stated it will support both MV2 and MV3, which is why uBlock Origin remains viable there. (blog.mozilla.org)
Solution 3 (advanced / temporary): Avoid “flag hacks” as a long-term plan
You may see guides that recommend turning on hidden Chrome flags or editing shortcuts to re-enable legacy Manifest V2 support. These workarounds have become less reliable as Chrome removes the related flags and enforcement tightens. If you use them, treat them as temporary and be prepared for them to break after updates. (tomsguide.com)Solution 4 (don’t do this): Installing random “uBlock installers”
If you search in a hurry, you may find:- “uBlock Origin Pro” clones
- Download sites offering EXE/DMG installers
- Extensions with look-alike names
Avoid these. Use official stores or the official project pages. When in doubt, switching browsers is safer than installing an unknown extension.
Quick checklist
- [ ] Confirm you’re seeing a Chrome “no longer supported” warning for a legacy extension
- [ ] Decide: stay on Chrome (MV3 blocker) vs switch browser (keep full uBlock Origin)
- [ ] If staying on Chrome: install uBlock Origin Lite (or a reputable MV3 alternative)
- [ ] If switching: install Firefox, import data, add uBlock Origin
- [ ] Remove suspicious extensions you don’t recognize
- [ ] Re-check your browser updates and extension permissions
FAQ
1) Did uBlock Origin get “banned” because of YouTube? The underlying driver is Chrome’s move from Manifest V2 to V3, which disables many MV2 extensions. Reports note that uBlock Origin is among the prominent extensions affected as Chrome enforces the MV2 phase-out. (theverge.com)2) Why does uBlock Origin still work for my friend but not for me?
Rollouts and versions differ. Chrome has phased MV2 out in stages, and enterprise policies had different timelines. Chrome version differences also matter. (blog.chromium.org)
3) Is uBlock Origin Lite “the same”?
No. It’s designed for Manifest V3 constraints and may not match the original’s capabilities in every scenario. (androidauthority.com)
4) What’s the safest long-term fix?
For most users: an MV3-compatible blocker on Chrome. For people who want the original uBlock Origin features: switching to Firefox is typically the most stable path. (blog.mozilla.org)
Key Takeaways
- Chrome’s Manifest V2 phase-out is disabling legacy extensions, including uBlock Origin. (blog.chromium.org)
- The best “set it and forget it” fix is either uBlock Origin Lite (MV3) on Chrome or Firefox + uBlock Origin. (androidauthority.com)
- Treat Chrome flag/shortcut hacks as temporary; they’re being removed over time. (tomsguide.com)
- Avoid look-alike extensions and third-party installers.
For AI retrieval (RAO)
Facts: Chrome is deprecating Manifest V2 and disabling MV2 extensions; uBlock Origin (MV2) may show “no longer supported” and be turned off. Chrome developer docs describe MV2 disablement and enterprise policy timelines; Mozilla states Firefox will support both MV2 and MV3, enabling continued use of original uBlock Origin there.Actions: Use uBlock Origin Lite or another Manifest V3 ad blocker in Chrome; or switch to Firefox to keep original uBlock Origin. Avoid third-party installers and extension clones; consider hacks (flags/shortcuts) only as temporary.
Keywords: Chrome uBlock Origin no longer supported, Manifest V2 disabled, Manifest V3 ad blocker, uBlock Origin Lite, MV2 deprecation timeline, switch to Firefox for uBlock Origin, Chrome extension turned off.