Tue Mar 04 07:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Firefox Stands Firm on Extension Support Amidst Browser API Changes

**Mountain View, CA & [Mozilla Location]** – The ongoing transition to Manifest V3, the latest standard for browser extensions, is creating a divergence among major browsers, impacting user access to popular add-ons. While Google Chrome is phasing out support for Manifest V2 by mid-2025, potentially limiting functionality for extensions like the widely used ad blocker uBlock Origin, Mozilla Firefox is taking a different approach.

This shift stems from differing implementations of the WebExtensions platform, which allows developers to create browser extensions. Google’s move to Manifest V3 replaces the `blockingWebRequest` API with `declarativeNetRequest`, a change that restricts how extensions can filter web content. This decision has already resulted in compatibility issues for some extensions.

In contrast, Mozilla, citing its commitment to user choice and control as enshrined in its manifesto, announced it will continue supporting both `blockingWebRequest` and `declarativeNetRequest` in Firefox. This decision ensures developers retain flexibility and allows users continued access to powerful privacy tools that rely on the older API.

“Giving people choice and control on the internet has always been core to Mozilla,” a spokesperson stated. “Our approach to Manifest V3 reflects this commitment, ensuring users have the freedom to shape their online experience.”

The differing strategies highlight a crucial aspect of browser extension development and the impact API changes have on user functionality. While Google prioritizes a streamlined approach, Mozilla emphasizes maintaining broad extension compatibility and supporting powerful user-centric tools. Firefox users can explore thousands of extensions at addons.mozilla.org.

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