Mozilla is expanding Firefox for iOS with an experimental network-level ad blocker designed to reduce unwanted advertising while browsing. The feature uses an EasyList-based filter to block many ads before they load, along with ad-related trackers, third-party advertising networks, pop-ups and overlays. The rollout is gradual, and the feature is turned off by default.
Firefox for iOS gets optional ad blocking
According to Mozilla’s support information, the new blocker can identify and filter many advertisements delivered through third-party networks, exchanges and websites. However, it does not block every ad because websites use different technologies that may not be covered by the current filter list.
Search-result advertisements are also excluded. Ads appearing on Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo and other search engines will continue to be displayed. Sponsored content shown on the Firefox Home or New Tab page is also not blocked.
Users can activate the feature from Firefox’s main settings by opening the menu, selecting Settings, scrolling to Browsing and switching on Ad Blocker under the Content section. The setting can also be changed directly while visiting a website through the Site menu.
To manage it while browsing, users can open a webpage, tap the menu button and select Ad Blocker. Firefox will open the relevant setting, allowing the feature to be enabled or disabled for that browsing session.
The blocker remains disabled by default and can be switched on or off at any time. Mozilla is introducing it through a progressive rollout, so it may not yet be available to all Firefox for iOS users.
The company has not provided a timeline for when the feature will reach the entire iOS user base. For now, availability depends on the ongoing rollout, while the experimental blocker remains subject to the limitations of its current filtering system.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.