Chrome’s new rules ruined ad blockers. Here are 4 things that still work

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A few years ago, Chrome introduced Manifest V3 and began phasing out the older Manifest V2 technology used by some of the most advanced browser extensions. According to Google, the older version was harder to maintain and had its own real security risks, but we suspect it’s also because Google wanted to rein in extension capabilities.

Unfortunately, this also made it harder to install extensions like the highly popular uBlock Origin. While workarounds still existed by using Chrome flags, that’s no longer the case . It is now virtually impossible to get MV2 extensions to work in Chrome.

So, what are your options when it comes to ad-blocking? These days, you won’t find full ad-blocking support on Chrome, but there are still a few solutions for those set on sticking with Google’s popular browser.

The new changes to the Chrome browser make it hard to add truly comprehensive, high-level blocking directly. But what if you didn’t need to in the first place? AdGuard is an app that runs outside your browser and can do much more than just block ads on the sites you use.

Not only can AdGuard block ads in other apps and services beyond the browser, but it can also protect you from trackers, malware, phishing, social widgets, and other security threats. It’s also extremely easy to set up and get started, with a wide range of supported platforms including iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.

AdGuard is free for just one device, but if you want multi-device coverage, parental controls, and the ability to block ads in apps and games, you’ll need a personal account starting at $2.49 a month. Honestly, in 2026, you won’t find a better option if you need Chrome support and robust blocking that covers malware, tracking, and more.

Please be aware that while you can download this app from Google Play, this version removes Chrome support and makes a few other tweaks. Thankfully, the AdGuard website has an APK you can sideload if you want to keep using Chrome.