uBlock Origin gives Firefox an accidental competitive edge
As Chromium browsers retire older extension capabilities, Firefox has become the major browser where uBlock Origin still works without that particular migration pressure.
The change is about extension architecture, not a new Firefox feature. For users who depend on uBlock Origin, the browser has become a practical refuge from restrictions rolling through Chrome-derived products.
HN commenters also pointed to Brave and custom extensions, but the broader complaint was simpler: modern advertising has made blocking it feel necessary for ordinary browsing.
The extension API became product strategy
PCWorld’s report puts Firefox in an unusual position: it remains the last major browser supporting the setup that keeps uBlock Origin fully available while Chromium platforms move on from Manifest V2.
That technical detail is visible to readers as a choice between browsers. It is also a reminder that extension-policy decisions can redistribute users without changing a browser’s rendering engine or headline feature set.
"Ads are so invasive and prevalent now that you need an ad blocker just to use the internet." — an HN commenter
The thread included alternatives: Brave was mentioned for its built-in blocking, and one developer described consolidating several extensions into a custom extension. Neither changes the immediate reason Firefox is attracting attention: a familiar blocker continues to work there.
Curation is another difference
One commenter highlighted Firefox’s review process for recommended extensions, saying uBlock receives staff review. That makes the issue two-layered: users want broad extension capability, but they also want a browser that can make prominent extensions safer to trust.
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