Opera has announced that it will continue supporting older Chrome extensions despite Google Chrome’s transition to the Manifest V3 standard. By retaining Manifest V2, Opera ensures compatibility with popular ad blockers like uBlock Origin, unlike Chrome, which now restricts their use.
While Google promotes Manifest V3 as a more secure framework, Opera maintains functionality that appeals to many users. According to TechSpot, Opera’s decision could attract users concerned about losing access to effective ad blockers, which are increasingly limited in Chrome.
Why Opera Supports Manifest V2
In 2023, Google mandated the switch to Manifest V3 for extension developers, requiring them to adopt new, less effective methods to block intrusive ads. Although positioned as a security upgrade, many users feel the new standard compromises the quality of ad filtering. Opera and other Chromium-based browsers have opted to preserve Manifest V2, retaining the advantages it provides in ad-blocking functionality.
The newly launched Opera One R2 browser also reflects the company’s focus on innovation. It emphasizes integration with generative AI technologies, making it a standout among browsers. Introduced as the “best Opera browser to date,” Opera One features an enhanced command line for AI interactions, image generation capabilities, and other novel tools.
Continued Innovation with AI and Independent Development
Opera One R2 comes with design improvements, including dynamic themes, animated backgrounds, and sound effects. The company aims to enhance the browsing experience by seamlessly combining AI capabilities with visual upgrades.
Opera also reaffirmed its ability to make independent development decisions, even as Chromium evolves, adds NIX Solutions. This independence ensures users can still access extensions like uBlock Origin without needing to switch to alternatives such as uBlock Origin Lite. Users can also rely on Opera’s built-in ad blocker, which has been available since 2016.
We’ll keep you updated as Opera continues evolving, balancing new technologies with user needs.