Ad-blocking extension uBlock Origin now available for Google-owned Edge browser on Android devices, effectively ending its run on Chrome
Enjoy Ad-Free Surfing with uBlock Origin on Microsoft Edge for Android
Fed up with those pesky ads popping up on your mobile browsing sessions? good news! Microsoft Edge for Android now packs two fan-favorite ad blockers - uBlock Origin and its lite version, all readily available within the browser.
Previously, enabling uBlock Origin necessitated switching Edge to another language. However, that's a thing of the past as the extension has made its way into the general stable version of Edge. Thanks to tech enthusiast Leo Varela for highlighting this addition on X.
UBlock Origin, a well-liked ad blocker, has run into snags recently. Google Chrome transitioned to Manifest V3, which resulted in the extension ceasing to function. The extension stopped working on numerous browsers as well, but fear not, as Firefox will carry on supporting the API essential for uBlock Origin to run.
Microsoft's support document discussing Manifest V3 still lists "TBD" (to be determined) regarding the cutoff date for Manifest V2 extensions. If Microsoft carries on supporting such extensions, Edge would stand out over Chrome with another distinct advantage.
A Rough Ride with uBlock Origin
Since uBlock Origin rolled out to the stable version of Edge for Android, we've tested it on various sites. The extension functions as you'd expect, blocking ads effortlessly and offering fine-tuned controls for blocking specific types of content.
However, uBlock Origin seems to encounter occasional issues on Edge for Android. While using the extension, Edge may crash periodically. Reports have been mixed, suggesting the issue cropping up sporadically. Varela hasn't encountered any crashes, but others have experienced constant problems. Here's hoping the glitches get rectified soon! AdGuard Adblocker is another alternativeEdge supports as well.
Enabling uBlock Origin on Microsoft Edge for Android
It's believed uBlock Origin and its lite version found their way into Edge for Android without needing an update. Regardless, ensure your Edge is updated because it's always a good idea!
To enable uBlock Origin or uBlock Origin Lite:
- Open Microsoft Edge for Android.
- Tap the menu button (three lines).
- Tap Extensions.
- Scroll down to uBlock Origin or uBlock Origin Lite and tap Get on the right-hand side of the extension name.
The same steps apply to installing other extensions like Dark Reader, Keepa, and NordVPN. Happy browsing, ad-free!
- The recent update on Microsoft Edge for Android has brought two popular ad blockers – uBlock Origin and its lighter version – directly into the browser.
- In the past, enabling uBlock Origin on Edge required switching the browser to another language, but that's no longer necessary as the extension is now part of the general stable version.
- UBlock Origin, a well-known ad blocker, has faced challenges recently due to Google Chrome's transition to Manifest V3, causing the extension to stop functioning.
- However, Firefox continues to support the API necessary for uBlock Origin to operate, providing an alternative for users.
- Microsoft's support document regarding Manifest V3 is still undecided about the cutoff date for Manifest V2 extensions, leaving the possibility open for Edge to stand out against Chrome with another unique advantage.
- Since uBlock Origin's integration into the stable version of Edge for Android, it has been tested on various sites and functions well, effortlessly blocking ads and offering fine-tuned controls.
- While using uBlock Origin on Edge for Android, occasional issues have been noted, with the browser sometimes crashing periodically. These issues seem to occur sporadically, and users are advised to update their Edge browser for the best experience, as this also applies to installing other extensions like Dark Reader, Keepa, NordVPN, and AdGuard Adblocker.
