Google to Phase Out Classic Extensions in Chrome Soon

Understanding the Deprecation of Manifest V2 Extensions in Chrome

Google recently announced the phased deprecation of Manifest V2 extensions in the Chrome web browser, informing users about the transition through a blog post. Starting in June, users relying on these classic extensions will receive notifications regarding their impending removal.

What is a Manifest?

Manifests serve as a guideline for browser extensions, outlining their functionalities and permissions. The introduction of Manifest V3 garnered considerable backlash due to its restrictive nature, particularly impacting upgrades and functionalities of essential tools like ad blockers and privacy extensions.

Challenges with Manifest V3

Despite Google’s attempts to adapt Manifest V3 through updates, significant limitations still exist. Developers of renowned extensions, such as uBlock Origin, have pointed out critical features that are now unsupported, including:

Dynamic Filtering: Users may not enjoy the flexibility of modifying filtering rules on-the-fly.
Per-Site Switches: Users could face constraints in enabling or disabling features specific to certain sites.
Regex-Based Filters: This will limit users’ ability to fine-tune their ad-blocking preferences.

Timeline for Manifest V2 Deprecation

The deprecation process is set to unfold as follows:

June 3, 2024: Chrome will initiate notifications for users on development editions (Beta, Dev, and Canary) featuring Manifest V2 extensions.
Feature Badge Removal: Manifest V2 extensions will lose their “Feature”status on the same day.
Extension Management: Users can observe unsupported extensions listed on their management page, along with guidance to find alternatives.
Subsequent Months: Automatic disabling of Manifest V2 extensions will occur, with a temporary option for re-enabling prior to complete removal.
Enterprise Customers: A grace period until June 2025 is available for enterprises that set specific policies for extension use.

What Lies Ahead?

As more browsers based on Chromium follow suit, the landscape for extensions is changing dramatically. Some alternatives may persist in limited forms, while Firefox plans to keep supporting Manifest V2 alongside Manifest V3. Nonetheless, many existing extensions won’t transition smoothly to V3 without compromising functionality.

Content Blockers: The Future

The effectiveness of content blockers is under scrutiny in the context of these changes. While integrated content blockers in browsers like Brave, Vivaldi, and Opera will remain effective without additional installations, the vast majority of ad blockers may become less adept at filtering content in Chromium-based environments.

Overall, while users may not perceive immediate effects, the limitations imposed by Manifest V3 will subtly reshape the way users engage with content blockers and privacy tools on Chrome.

For ongoing updates and further details, you can follow

Additional Insights

1. What should users do to prepare for the Manifest V2 deprecation?

Users should regularly check the extensions page in Chrome for any unsupported extensions and start looking for alternatives. Transitioning to compatible extensions ahead of time can minimize disruption.

2. Will all Chrome extensions lose support?

No, only those based on Manifest V2 will be phased out. Extensions that are updated to comply with Manifest V3 will remain operational, though they may lack certain features.

3. Are there any recommended alternatives to popular extensions?

For users of popular extensions like uBlock Origin, consider checking out options like Firefox’s built-in features or alternative privacy-focused browsers that still support similar functionalities without the limitations of Manifest V3.

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