The Transition from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3 – What’s Happening?

In recent developments, both Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge have initiated the phase-out of extensions built on the Manifest V2 framework. This shift aims to enhance browser security, privacy, and performance by adopting the updated Manifest V3 specification.

 

Manifest V2, introduced over a decade ago, allowed developers to create extensions with extensive capabilities. However, some of these features posed security risks and performance issues. To address these concerns, Manifest V3 was developed with stricter guidelines, aiming to offer a more secure and efficient browsing experience.

 

Manifest V2 vs. V3

 

All the information is published on Chrome's website: Link

 

One significant change in Manifest V3 is the modification of the WebRequest API, which many content-blocking extensions, such as uBlock Origin, rely on. The new specification limits the ability of extensions to intercept and modify network requests, impacting the functionality of certain ad blockers and privacy tools.

 

 

This transition has been in progress for some time. According to the Chromium Blog, the phase-out of Manifest V2 began in June 2024, with extensions being disabled in stages to ensure a smooth transition for users and developers.

 

Similarly, Microsoft Edge has followed suit, aligning its extension platform with the Chromium project's direction. Recent updates indicate that Edge is also disabling Manifest V2 extensions, prompting users to switch to Manifest V3-compatible versions.

 

For users in Singapore and globally, this means certain extensions, particularly those related to content blocking, may no longer function as expected unless updated to comply with Manifest V3 standards. It's advisable to check for updates or alternatives to ensure continued functionality.

 

 

Impact on Users and Developers – What Changes?

 

The shift from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3 is not just a technical update—it directly affects millions of users and thousands of developers worldwide. With Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge disabling older extensions, both groups must adapt quickly to avoid disruptions in functionality.

 

For users, the most noticeable change is the potential loss of functionality in certain extensions, especially ad blockers, privacy tools, and automation extensions. Many of these relied on the WebRequest API, which is significantly restricted in Manifest V3. This change reduces the ability of extensions to modify network requests before they reach the browser, impacting the effectiveness of some content-filtering tools.

 

In Singapore, where digital privacy concerns are rising, users who depend on enhanced ad-blocking and tracker-blocking extensions may find limited options available. Popular extensions such as uBlock Origin have already stated that some of their advanced filtering capabilities will be lost under Manifest V3, prompting users to explore alternative browsers like Firefox or Brave.

 

 

For developers, this transition brings both challenges and opportunities. Many extension creators now need to rewrite large parts of their code to comply with Manifest V3 standards. The removal of background scripts, along with stricter permissions, forces developers to rethink how their extensions function.

 

While Google has provided tools and documentation to assist in the transition, some developers argue that Manifest V3 limits innovation and customization, making it harder to build powerful extensions. In response, some open-source developers are looking at alternative platforms or creating privacy-focused forks of Chromium that maintain Manifest V2 compatibility.

 

In Singapore’s fast-growing tech community, where many startups and developers create browser extensions for security and e-commerce, adapting to Manifest V3 is now a priority. Those developing ad-tech and automation extensions must adjust to service worker-based architecture and declarativeNetRequest rules, which offer more security but reduce flexibility.

 

To stay ahead, developers should explore Google’s migration tools, update their extensions early, and communicate changes to their user base. Failing to adapt could result in their extensions being removed from the Chrome Web Store and Edge Add-ons marketplace.

 

 

 

What’s Next? Alternative Browsers and Future Outlook

 

As Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge continue phasing out Manifest V2, users and developers must explore new options. While adapting to Manifest V3 is necessary for many, some users may prefer alternative browsers that still support Manifest V2 or offer better privacy-focused features.

 

Currently, Mozilla Firefox remains one of the few mainstream browsers that continue to support Manifest V2 extensions. Firefox developers have stated that they will maintain compatibility for privacy extensions and ad blockers while working on a long-term strategy to balance security and functionality. This makes Firefox a strong option for users who rely on extensions affected by Manifest V3.

 

Another alternative is Brave Browser, which comes with built-in ad and tracker blocking. Since Brave is based on Chromium but has its own filtering technology, many users see it as a suitable replacement for Chrome, especially in regions like Singapore, where digital privacy concerns are rising.

 

 

For businesses and developers, the future of browser extensions will depend on how well they adapt to Manifest V3. While Google claims the update improves security, many developers believe it limits innovation and may drive users toward alternative platforms. Some experts predict the rise of third-party Chromium forks that maintain Manifest V2 support.

 

In the Singapore market, where many tech startups and cybersecurity firms rely on browser extensions for automation and data analytics, this shift could encourage innovation in independent browser development. Developers who focus on privacy tools and productivity solutions will need to rethink their strategies to align with the new API limitations.

 

 

Final thoughts

 

The transition from Manifest V2 to V3 marks a significant change in the way browser extensions function. While enhanced security and performance improvements are beneficial, users and developers must navigate the trade-offs carefully.

 

If you rely on privacy-focused extensions or advanced automation tools, consider switching to Firefox, Brave, or other privacy-first browsers. Developers should start updating their extensions to comply with Manifest V3 requirements or explore alternative distribution platforms.