Opera has announced it will retain support for current Chrome extensions, including uBlock Origin.
The alternative browser is not ready to phase out Manifest V2 just yet.
A major shift for Chrome extension developers
Google is prompting a major shift for Chrome extension developers by mandating the use of the newer Manifest V3 framework. In contrast, several other Chromium-based browsers are opting not to follow this path, preserving stronger ad-blocking capabilities compared to Chrome.
This move places Google Chrome at risk of being seen as a lesser option, particularly in terms of blocking intrusive ads. By replacing Manifest V2 with Manifest V3, Google is pushing extension developers to adopt a less effective solution in favor of what it claims is greater browser security. However, Opera Software has recently confirmed it will retain support for Manifest V2 in its Chromium-based browser.
Opera’s latest release, Opera One R2—which the company promotes as its “best Opera browser” to date—is designed with a focus on enhanced support for generative AI capabilities. Launched in 2023, the Opera One rebranding reflects a commitment to developing an entirely new browser from the ground up, centered around AI services.
Opera One R2 introduces new AI-powered features
Opera One R2 introduces new AI-powered features, including an upgraded command line for interacting with its AI assistant, Aria, along with image generation and other advanced capabilities. Additionally, Opera unveiled a refreshed design that highlights the future of web browsers, featuring dynamic themes, animated backgrounds, and "browser sounds." Although sound effects in browsers date back to the Windows 98 era, AI integration now aims to create a more immersive browsing experience.
In terms of ad blockers and legacy extensions, Opera One R2 will continue supporting Manifest V2 add-ons, even as Google phases out the technology from Chromium. Opera has also offered a built-in ad-blocking feature since 2016, which requires no additional components and can reportedly improve web page load speeds by up to 90 percent.
Opera affirmed its commitment to supporting Manifest V2 extensions
A few days prior to releasing Opera One R2, Opera affirmed its commitment to supporting Manifest V2 extensions, regardless of shifts in other browsers. While updates to the Chromium layout engine generally influence Opera, the company emphasized its autonomy in making independent decisions and customizing the shared codebase.
This commitment allows Opera users to continue using extensions like uBlock Origin without disruption, avoiding a forced switch to more limited options like uBlock Origin Lite. Alternatively, users can take advantage of Opera’s built-in ad-blocking feature.
Brave and Mozilla Firefox maintain support for uBlock Origin
Other browsers maintaining support for uBlock Origin include Brave and Mozilla Firefox, with the latter recommended by uBlock developers as currently offering the best ad-blocking experience available.