● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
Firefox for iOS Launches Built-In Ad Blocker Using WebKit and EasyList
Key points
- Firefox for iOS now includes a built-in ad blocker.
- It blocks most third-party ads and trackers.
- The feature uses Apple's WebKit Content Blocker and EasyList filter.
- Ad blocking is off by default and can be enabled in settings.
- Ads served directly by sites or in search results are not blocked.
Overview of New Ad Blocker
Mozilla has officially released a new ad blocking feature for its Firefox browser on iOS. This built-in option is designed to block most third-party ads and trackers before they load, aiming to reduce bandwidth usage and visual clutter on mobile websites.
Technical Implementation
The ad blocker utilizes Apple’s WebKit Content Blocker technology and the EasyList filter. This integration means users do not need to install a separate extension to activate the feature. The ad blocker works alongside existing privacy protections in Firefox, such as Enhanced Tracking Protection.
User Control and Limitations
The ad blocking feature is disabled by default, giving users control over whether to activate it. It can be enabled through the browser's settings under 'Settings > Browsing > Ad Blocker' or toggled during a browsing session from the site menu. However, the feature does not block all ads; ads served directly by a website or those appearing in search results will still be displayed. Sponsored shortcuts and content shown by Firefox on new tabs are also unaffected.
Availability and Impact
This release follows a testing period for the feature. Firefox on Desktop and Android already offers similar ad blocking capabilities. The addition to iOS aligns Firefox with other browsers that provide built-in ad blocking functionality, offering users more control over their browsing experience on Apple devices.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Firefox for iOS has introduced a built-in ad blocker that uses Apple's WebKit Content Blocker technology and the EasyList filter to block many third-party ads and trackers. This feature is off by default and provides users with an option to reduce visual clutter and distractions while browsing.
Mozilla has officially launched a built-in ad blocking feature for Firefox on iOS, which blocks most third-party ads and trackers using Apple's WebKit Content Blocker technology and the EasyList filter. This update reduces bandwidth usage and declutters mobile websites for users, aligning Firefox with other browsers that already offer similar functionality.