safari ipad youtube ad blocker

Too Many Ads! 9 Ad Blockers for iPad That Restores Peace

Websites are increasingly becoming ad minefields. Here are nine overlooked ways you can adblock on your iPad.

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iPads are more than just tablets these days . They’re productivity powerhouses that can easily replace your laptop for the right workflow. As with most devices connected to the internet, there’s an enemy behind the curtain: annoying ads.

Pop-ups, flashy banners, and autoplay videos can shatter your focus faster than a dropped Apple Pencil. This is where ad blockers or content blockers come in.

Also Read: The Only Apple Pencil Guide You Need to Read

Content Blockers or Ad Blockers for iPad We Trust

We tested several content blockers on our iPad Air 5 , and these apps emerged as the most reliable ones. 

At the top is Total AdBlock. It is free and lives up to its name, offering exceptional content blocking. AdGuard is a close runner-up as it provides a wealth of customization options. Lastly, 1Blocker goes beyond Safari, giving other browser users a safe and reliable blocker.

Mainstream Content Blockers for iPad Apps We Tested

Total adblock: one of the best ad blockers for ipad.

One of the best content and ad blockers for iPad that we’ve tried is Total AdBlock. It prevents pop-ups and autoplay videos from ruining your flow, especially if you’re working. Now, I’m relatively patient when it comes to website ads. However, I do draw the line when they’re flying all over the place.

That’s where my experience with Total AdBlock comes in. It is one of the first content blockers I’ve tried that tames ad-filled websites. It shines in its core function, but it also eliminates banners, pop-ups, and video ads that will surely disrupt your browsing experience.

In my case, doing online research means opening a ton of websites and tabs. Some of them have annoying ads that autoplay a video, and you’ll never know which tab it is coming from. To my surprise, Total AdBlock does its job, allowing me to breathe a much-needed sigh of relief.

Content and ad blockers could be better at this, so expect a few ads to pop up here and there. However, Total AdBlock generally tames these annoying ads, which is good enough for me.

Also Read: How to Play YouTube Videos in the Background on Your Tablet

For one, you’ll need to get the subscription plan for it to work. It has a free trial, but it is only seven days. At least it gives you a chance to try out its capabilities and see if it matches your filtering needs. On the plus side, continuing their premium plan is still budget-friendly, so getting it won’t hurt your wallet.

As someone who always watches videos on YouTube, Total AdBlock is a lifesaver. It offers a way to get rid of those pesky ads. Simply open the video on YouTube and share it with the Total AdBlock app so it plays ad-free.

AdGuard: Ad Blocker with Manual Controls

A reliable alternative to Total AdBlock, where you don’t need to sign up for a premium plan right away, is AdGuard. It is an efficient blocker that works on Safari without being intrusive. After setting it up, you’ll feel like it is not even there.

I recently switched to Safari after using Chrome on both desktop and mobile for more than a decade. Since Chrome on iOS didn’t offer much content and ad blocking, it made sense that I moved over to Apple’s browser.

Also Read: 6 Best Browsers for Your iPad

The biggest difference between AdGuard and other similar apps and services is that it is not too aggressive in getting you to upgrade to its premium version. It lets its features do the talking and convince you.

The moment I completed setting it up, I noticed a significant reduction in ads. In particular, the pesky banner and autoplay video ads don’t appear as often. I’ll still see ads occasionally, but not on every webpage I open. 

As with most content and ad blockers for iOS, AdGuard also has a premium version that allows you to block more complex ads. Subscribing to the premium tier will block YouTube ads on Safari, suspicious content, and trackers. It will also give you better control over which sites to turn on blocking.

1Blocker: Versatile Ad Blocker for iOS Devices

If there’s a content blocker built exclusively for iOS devices, it is 1Blocker. It performs relatively better than others. There are instances when a wayward ad goes through the filter, but they are few and far between.

However, it is a lot more reliable when blocking pop-up video ads, no matter how many times I refresh the website.

Since it is a blocker designed for iOS, it only works in Safari. Unfortunately, you must deal with all the ads using a different browser, like Chrome or Firefox. However, now that I’m a Safari user, I can enjoy the robustness of the blocking solution that 1Blocker offers.

As with most blockers, you can’t run all the features simultaneously. 1Blocker’s free version only allows you to use one filter, so you’ll have to choose whether you want to block ads, trackers, widgets, app banners, or other annoyances.

If you want to activate all the filters to block all possible things that can disrupt your experience, I recommend getting the Premium version. You can try two weeks for free before deciding to get their monthly package for only $2.99. This is great if you have multiple Apple devices, as one subscription will cover all of them from your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Also Read: The Best iPads You Can Get

AdLock: Best Free Ad Blocker

AdLock is one of those unique blocking apps that gives you access to most of its features even if you haven’t signed up for their Premium plan. Not all content blockers are this generous, especially when giving you access to customization settings.

AdLock allows you to enjoy ad-free surfing on Safari and YouTube. It also allows you to set up a whitelist to enable ads on sites you support. However, if you want heavy-duty features like stopping online tracking and protecting your personal data, you will have to opt-in to their Premium Tier.

The best part is that you can try it out for seven days and see if the plan fits your privacy and annoyance-blocking needs.

Even with the free version of AdBlock, the ad-stopping features are impeccable. As soon as I turned it on and refreshed a website in Safari, I didn’t find a trace of an ad or even a video pop-up. Compared to the free versions of other blockers here, AdLock is the one I recommend if you’re not keen on upgrading to a Premium plan.

Safari Pop-Up Blocker: Built-in Ad Blocker

Okay, so Safari’s built-in pop-up blocker might not be the best. It won’t get rid of ads like these other content blockers. However, since it is built-in and you don’t have to install or purchase anything, it is a tool worth recommending.

The only downside to this tool is that it is less comprehensive than the others. It blocks only pop-ups that easily crowd Safari tabs. Still, that’s a win, as most harmful content on the net comes in pop-up form.

It is certainly enough if you’re not a power user and don’t mind seeing a few non-intrusive ads here and there. Plus, you can continue supporting websites by allowing ads to appear on your browser. As long as you’re going to reputable sites, there’s no harm in reading a few ads. Who knows, some of them may come in handy and interest you.

Yes, Safari’s built-in pop-up blocker will probably not make it to number one on this list. But, if you think it fits your needs, it is a handy free option.

To make sure that this feature is activated, here’s how you do it:

• Go to your iPad’s Settings app.
• Scroll down and tap on Safari.
• Find the Block Pop-ups item.
• Toggle the switch to the ON position.

Also Read: Our Comprehensive iPad 10 Review

How to Activate Your Content Blockers

If you’re using content blockers, there’s still a step you need to take to ensure that they’re turned on. It is not enough to simply download and install them. Instead, you’ll have to set them up before you can see them working their magic. Here’s how you do it:

• Open your iPad’s Settings app.
• Navigate to the Safari option.
• Scroll down and tap Extensions.
• Set all of the Extensions for AdGuard to On.
• Open Safari and browse your favorite websites.

Also Read: How to Set Up Your New iPad

Overlooked Content Blockers: Browser-Based

I don’t know if you’ve noticed it, but so far, most of our options on this list are apps for Safari. Don’t get me wrong; they’re good and reliable and get the job done, especially if you get their premium subscriptions.

However, we’re here to tell you that other options are available. There are overlooked ones that not many users know about. Let’s look at browser-based possibilities that you can use if you’re not a fan of Safari.

Brave Browser

I was instantly impressed the first time I fired up Brave and accessed a website I know has quite a few ads. There was no ad or pop-up in sight. It also gave me a quick snapshot of how many ads and trackers it has blocked on the website.

It makes you wonder how other browsers can follow Brave’s footsteps, especially regarding transparency. Even with all the blocked content filtered out, you won’t notice anything different with the website. I compared the same site on Safari, Chrome, and Brave, and you’ll see the same content.

It shows that Brave has figured out its filtering technology and is as reliable as most paid options on this list. Another upside of using Brave is it gives you customization options that you’ll only find in Premium versions of the apps we reviewed here.

Now, I’m not saying that you should switch to Brave. Content-blocking apps still exist in your App Library, especially if you use Safari. However, if you want to switch browsers, consider using Brave and solving your app problems simultaneously.

Opera Browser

Opera is another browser you can use as an alternative to Safari. It is a lightweight browser that’s fast and more secure as it has ad and tracker blocking activated by default. There’s no need to set it up, and as soon as you reach the website you want to check out, you won’t see any ads or pop-ups.

If you’ve been using Chrome or Safari, browsing on Opera is a breath of fresh air. There are no distractions, and you’re more focused on the content than the next thing that appears. Opera also blocks ads and protects you from crypto-mining scripts that can ruin your experience. 

Although blocking and filtering customization options are not as robust as Brave’s, they’re more than enough to improve your browsing experience. An advantage of Opera over Brave is that it comes with a free VPN, which you can use to boost your privacy further.

When it comes to rendering websites, Opera is as reliable as other major players like Safari, Chrome, and Firefox. Ad blocking is also reliable, and you won’t see one in any form, no matter which website you go to. I highly recommend it if you want that added layer of privacy.

Overlooked Content Blockers: VPN-Based

In most apps we showcased here, there’s one theme: They only work with Safari. There’s a type of content blocker that will help you get rid of ads and trackers no matter which browser you use, including Chrome and Firefox.

Surfshark Cleanweb: VPN with Ad Blocker Feature

To be honest with you, I subscribed to Surfshark years ago primarily for entertainment. But its Cleanweb feature is one of my favorites. I did mention earlier that I’m a big Chrome user, even on my mobile devices. I did switch to Safari, but Google’s browser still has its place, and I still use it.

On an iPad, your ad blocker choices are mostly limited to those that work with Safari. However, with Surfshark Cleanweb, you can enjoy them on every other browser. And based on my experience using it for over two years, it works reliably.

Also Read: Best Free Apps for Your Tablet

No matter what browser you open, there’s no ad or pop-up in sight, which gives you a more streamlined and distraction-free experience. On top of its ad-blocking features, it blocks trackers and protects your device from malicious websites by alerting you before you open them.

You do need a Surfshark VPN subscription for it to work. But their packages are affordable, especially if you get their annual or multi-year plans. As I said, I got my Surfshark subscription for the VPN, but I’ll be happy to do it for the Cleanweb feature.

Proton VPN NetShield: Reliable and Budget-Friendly

If you’re looking for a free version of Surfshark’s Cleanweb, Proton VPN’s Netshield is the tool you’re looking for. I got a ProtonMail account mainly for its security and privacy, but I didn’t know that signing up for one would grant me perks like access to their powerful VPN service.

First, Proton VPN’s NetShield only works when you activate their VPN. Now, their app’s UI can get confusing since you won’t be able to connect to a server you want unless you upgrade to their paid subscriptions. However, all you need to do is press the Connect button, and you can start to enjoy ad-free and tracker-free browsing.

It will also say that NetShield is only available with their paid subscriptions, but a free version works as long as you’re connected to one of their VPN servers.

A few ads may sneak through the blockers if you’re on the free version. However, it will still eliminate most of the ads on the page, which is still significant. For a more robust solution, I recommend upgrading to their paid subscription.

Content Blockers vs Ad Blockers

These two may sound the same, and they do have similar functions. Think of them as bouncers for your iPad, filtering out unwanted content before they disrupt your groove. 

Also Read: iPad Mini vs iPad Air Comparison

If you have a browser like Firefox or Chrome on your laptop, you’re probably familiar with ad blockers. However, due to Apple’s restrictions, traditional ad blockers can only do so much. On the other hand, content blockers are the new blood because they offer a more comprehensive solution shield.

Think of content blockers as having a broader reach as they deal with ads and block trackers. The best part is that content blockers offer a surprising amount of customization, as you can block ads on certain websites and allow them for some.

Before You Go

These blockers are excellent ways to filter unwanted and malicious content from your browsing experience. If you have an Android tablet, here are the best VPNs for a more private and secure connection.

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Best ad-blocks for Safari in 2024: Browse ad-free on Mac & iOS

The web is full to the brim with adverts for all sorts of products and services, so what better piece of kit to invest in than a high-functioning and reliable ad-blocker?

In this article, we've taken a look at the best ad-blockers for Safari. These apps make for a faster, safer, and better browsing experience. 

What is the best ad-block for Safari?

Here's a quick look at the best ad-blockers for Safari. A more detailed analysis can be found further on in this article. 

• Total Adblock - Best adblocker for Safari. A secure ad-blocker Safari extension for iOS devices. Premium plan includes anti-virus protection and an exclusive YouTube ad-blocker.
• CleanWeb - Surfshark’s multi-purpose ad-blocker removes all ads from Safari before the page displays – including video ads. The blocker forms part of the Surfshark CleanWeb service, which comes free with all subscriptions.
• AdLock - A great standalone solution, which works with browsers and apps across all popular platforms.
• AdGuard - The best buy ad-blocker for Safari. Another great choice for blocking ads on this popular browser, with loads of customization.
• Wipr - A beginner-friendly ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a solid service for Safari that's a breeze to set up and even simpler to use.

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Why are these the best ad-blockers for Safari?

If you have looked for an adblocker for Safari before, then you will know that there are hundreds of services out there. We have chosen services with the following properties:

• Great apps and browser extensions
• Works on iOS and Mac
• Secure services

Not all of the services on the list have a free option, however, four of the five services on the list do. 

An in-depth look at the best ad-blockers for Safari

Below we take a closer look at the best ad-block software for Safari. If you still need more information about any of the services in this list, click through to the provider's website. 

1. Total Adblock Editor's Choice | June 2024

Total Adblock is a very secure ad-blocker for Safari browser on iOS devices. If you upgrade to premium, you get full protection with malware and TotalAV (anti-virus) protection.

• Premium: Block Unlimited Ads + FREE Total AV: $2.42/mth 70% OFF
• Free: $0/mth

Total AdBlock is an excellent adblocking solution for Safari on iOS devices. Unfortunately, Safari extension with this ad-blocker is not yet available for Mac devices, however, it efficiently removes all types of annoying ads on iPhones and iPads. But don't worry! If you're a Mac user, you can still use this ad-blocker with all the other popular browsers, including Chrome , Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Opera.

Total Adblock also takes care of your online privacy by blocking trackers and third-party cookies. So you can surf on Safari (and other browsers) without worrying that some advertisers and third-party companies might snoop on your activities or collect your data. And, with its exclusive features like YouTube ad-blocker, your overall online experience becomes much more pleasant, faster, and safer.

If you're looking to enhance browsing in your whole household, consider subscribing to premium, which allows you to block unlimited ads throughout the year. Plus, you'll get anti-malware and anti-virus protection for free, and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee to try all these out with peace of mind.

2. CleanWeb

CleanWeb is Surfshark’s combined ad-blocker, pop-up blocker, and malware and data breach alert service. It’s free with Surfshark subscriptions and easily enabled within the iOS and macOS apps.

• 1 month: $12.95/mth
• 24 months + 2 months FREE: $2.3/mth 82% OFF
• 12 months: $3.99/mth 69% OFF

Surfshark’s CleanWeb is an ad-blocker and pop-up blocker, as well as a way of finding out about data breaches and occurrences of site-based malware. The service is available as part of every Surfshark VPN subscription, and available for Safari via the iOS and macOS apps.

The ad-blocker removes all adverts from pages you start the process of opening – including the video ads favored by streaming platforms.

The pop-up blocker stops cookie requests from appearing every time you visit a site. The feature acts in the background to reject any that are possible to reject. Of those that can’t be rejected, the blocker only accepts those that are strictly necessary in order to use the site.

The third feature – the data breach alert – lets you know if a site you’re visiting has ever been breached. If so, it provides details of the number of exposed accounts and the date the breach happened.

The malware detector lets you know whether any website you’re visiting has ever been corrupted by malware or a virus.

AdLock will transform your Safari browsing experience with its great filtering and customization. Plus, it's affordable and offers multiple subscription plans.

• 60 months: $1.05/mth 70% OFF
• 12 months: $2.28/mth 35% OFF
• 1 month: $3.5/mth

AdLock is certainly one of the pricier ad-blockers around, but still a steal for what you're getting. For a little over $22 dollars a year, you'll have an ultra-reliable piece of kit that works extremely well with Safari. It's available as both an iPhone app and a Mac app, blocking both adverts and the tracking that goes on when you visit websites.

AdLock does not pander to the acceptable ads policy, meaning it blocks all adverts without compromise. This ad-blocker seems to work with just about every site we visit, from streaming sites to social media, but you can also whitelist sites you'd like to support financially. 

AdLock can be installed on up to 5 devices at the same time, which means you can use it on any device for which Safari is your default browser. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can road-test its product and decide for yourself if it does what it says on the tin. Overall, it's easy to use and one of the best additions to your day-to-day browsing experience you could invest in.

AdGuard is the best value-for-money ad-blocker for Safari. A widely used, open-source ad-blocker, with apps for all your devices.

• Free extensions: $0/mth
• 1 yr personal license/3 devices: $29.88/mth
• lifetime personal license/3 devices: $59.99/mth
• 1 yr family license/9 devices: $65.88/mth
• lifetime family license/9 devices: $129.99/mth

AdGuard is an ad-blocker I use regularly. Set up takes a matter of seconds and once you download it, it works brilliantly with Safari. You can choose exactly which kind of adverts and tracking script you'd like to block; it's highly configurable software but the user interface on devices like iPhone are quite easy to navigate.

By blocking tracking scripts, AdGuard will make the pages you open appear quicker simply because they have much less to load. If AdGuard does miss things – a rarity, but something does occasionally happen – there's a feature that allows you to identify certain adverts and remove them. 

The above function is one thing that can be performed with Adguard Assistant, an AdGuard extension that lets you change things up without having to leave the browser. You can add a specific website to a "do not block" list and report the website if it somehow manages to serve you ads, as well as block them as mentioned previously. AdGuard now also operates a VPN service with 44 locations across the globe too and runs a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Wipr is an easy-to-use ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a dedicated ad-blocker for iOS and macOS operating systems.

Wipr is available exclusively on macOS and iOS. It is designed to be set up once and left alone to run on Safari in the background, with its blocklist automatically updating twice a week. Although it isn't a hugely customizable app, it blocks both the adverts and the trackers that become active when you visit websites, as well as also dealing with any cryptocurrency miners and things like EU/GDPR notices that might cause you problems. 

Wipr has an active developer that regularly updates a blog on Wipr's main page, and you can contact him yourself if you have any issues with the app or suggestions you'd like to make. At just $1.99, too, it's a very small price to pay for a significant increase in page loading speed when you use Safari. 

Adblock is the original ad-blocker for iOS.

Adblock is another ad-blocker that works excellently with Safari. It has a local DNS proxy service – which you can enable and disable at will – that will let you see exactly what domains your device is contacting, and you can create your own blocking rules, which Adblock recommends you tie to rules you can find online. You can use it on multiple devices and sync up all your rules with iCloud. 

The vast majority of customers report an excellent experience with Adblock on the App Store too, which is always a good sign, and Adblock's ad-serves update automatically, so once you have it downloaded, there's not much more you need to do!

7. 1Blocker

1Blocker X is the descendant of one of the first blocking apps for Apple and optimised for Safari.

• Free version: $0/mth
• Premium: $2.99/mth
• /year: $14.99/mth

1Blocker X has over 43,000 blocking rules at its disposal to remove ads from the websites you visit, as well as 13,000 known trackers that it can block without breaking a sweat. 1Blocker X makes the lofty but evidenced claim that you can reduce your data usage by 50% by installing its app, which will also stop your browsing time draining your battery too. 

One thing I really like about 1Blocker X is its support section on its website, which takes you through how to create groups of custom rules as well as various troubleshooting methods for different problems you may encounter. There is also a blog that describes in detail updates and new features and they've got a Safari extension that will allow you to block ads straight from your browser.

What is an ad-blocker?

An ad-blocker is an application that will remove or alter adverts on the web pages you visit. When you click on a website, the webpage loads a number of scripts in order to display the content. Some of these scripts are related to adverts on the page. Ad-blockers analyze these scripts whilst webpages load, compare them to a list of known advertising scripts, and block what they recognize (with varying degrees of success). 

Due to the fact that advertisements are necessarily connected to tracking (a lot of adverts you'll see are served to you because of information gathered by trackers from your browsing history and activity on websites), the other crucial thing ad-blockers do is to prevent tracking scripts from running on your device. 

If you're in the market for an ad-blocker, remember that they come in all shapes and sizes, from browser extensions to fully-fledged apps. VPN companies like NordVPN and Surfshark provide ad-blockers as part of their services – which is an excellent way to get ad-blocking that will work on any browser – including Safari.

Safari browser vs Safari app 

When you're using a handheld Apple product like an iPhone or an iPad, you can head over to the App Store to download an ad-blocking app. On a Mac or a Macbook, ad-blockers are available as both Safari extensions or standalone Mac apps . 

However, these are, for the purpose of getting you up and running with an ad-blocker, essentially the same thing. They're just found in slightly different places. 

How to install an ad-blocker on Safari 

Ad-blocker apps.

• Search the app store for your chosen ad-blocker. 
• Download and install the app on your chosen device. 
• Go to your device settings and tap ' Safari '. 
• Scroll down to and click on the menu item entitled ' Content Blockers '. 
• Toggle on the ad-blocker settings you'd like active. 

Ad-blocker browser extensions

Make sure you have the latest macOS update installed and Safari up to date. Extensions are only available on devices with Safari 12 onwards. 

• Click on Safari in the top left-hand corner. 
• Select Safari Extensions from the drop-down menu. 
• Wait for the App Store to automatically open on the extensions page. 
• Search for the ad-blocker you'd like to add. 
• Click Get underneath the ad-blocker extension.
• Sign in with your Apple ID if required and start the download. 
• Click install to get the app up and running.
• Open the extension and follow any subsequent instructions.
• Click on Safari in the top right corner once more.
• Select Preferences from the drop-down menu. 
• Tick the checkbox next to the ad-blocker you downloaded. 

Ad-blocker apps on the Mac App store

• Search for your chosen Ad-blocker on the Mac App Store. 
• Click Get . 
• Select Install to set the ad-blocker up on your device.
• Click Open .
• Enable the app in Safari.
• Check  the relevant boxes in Safari Preferences. 

Can I whitelist certain websites or ads while using an ad-blocker on Safari?

Most ad blockers let you whitelist specific websites and services. This is an important feature as it allows you to support websites that are funded by ads - by allowing them to load on that domain (or subdomain). This also allows you to comply when a website refuses to load until you have turned off your ad-block.

Some ad blockers even give you granular control over which ads you can see. This allows you to allow certain ads to be displayed, while still keeping the ad blocker turned on for that website.

Are ad-blockers legal to use in Safari?

Yes. There is nothing illegal about blocking ads and trackers on Safari. It is your right to use an ad blocker to save data and get better page load times. However, some services may ask you to turn off your ad blocker to continue.

Those services are supported financially by ads, and they cannot afford for users to bypass ads, which are often the only (or a primary) source of revenue. If you choose to support that website and its operations, you may decide to allow ads on that website in order to help support them financially. 

Despite the fact that some services are funded by ads, it is not illegal to block ads, and you will not be prosecuted for using an ad blocker. On the other hand, it may be against the Terms of Services to use an ad block on some websites and services. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis, so be sure to understand the terms before using an ad blocker. This is the case with Twitch, for example.

Under these circumstances, you could potentially have your account or membership canceled for breaking the rules. However, in our experience, it is pretty unheard of for someone to lose an account simply for blocking ads. 

Are free ad blockers for Safari safe?

Free ad blockers for Safari can be safe, but it depends on the specific one and its developers. However, they need access to your data to work, which can raise privacy concerns.

Ad blockers function by identifying and blocking ads on web pages, which requires access to the information on the pages you visit. Some free ad blockers may not block all ads, may break some websites, or may collect or sell your data.

Paid ad blockers often offer more features and better privacy protection, but the choice between free and paid depends on your needs and preferences. Our list of the best ad blockers above and this article will help you make an informed decision.

Final thoughts

If you're a Safari user, investing in an ad-blocker is a no-brainer. To save you scrolling back up, here's a reminder of our top picks for the browser:

From $0.00 /month

Best adblocker for Safari. A secure ad-blocker Safari extension for iOS devices. Premium plan includes anti-virus protection and an exclusive YouTube ad-blocker.

From $2.30 /month

Surfshark’s multi-purpose ad-blocker removes all ads from Safari before the page displays – including video ads. The blocker forms part of the Surfshark CleanWeb service, which comes free with all subscriptions.

From $1.05 /month

A great standalone solution, which works with browsers and apps across all popular platforms.

The best buy ad-blocker for Safari. Another great choice for blocking ads on this popular browser, with loads of customization.

A beginner-friendly ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a solid service for Safari that's a breeze to set up and even simpler to use.

wasn't right for you?

We recommend you check out one of these alternatives:

What is the Best Free Ad Blocker for Safari?

Key points:.

• Online ads can harm your browsing experience, privacy, and security, especially on Safari, which lacks built-in ad blocking.
• Ghostery is one of the best ad blockers for Safari which blocks ads, prevents tracking, rejects cookie consent requests, and works across multiple devices.
• Download Ghostery’s free ad blocker extension for Safari and enjoy a faster, cleaner, and safer browsing experience.

Safari is one of the most popular web browsers in the world. It offers a fast, smooth, and user-friendly interface that makes browsing a pleasure.

But you probably know how annoying and intrusive online ads can be. They can slow down your browsing, distract you from the content you want to see, and even compromise your security and privacy.

That’s why using one of the best ad blockers is essential for enhancing your online experience.

Benefits of Using Safari

Safari is a web browser that offers many privacy and security features:

• Intelligent Tracking Prevention limits third-party cookies and data by default, preventing advertisers from tracking your online activity and collecting your personal information.
• Privacy Reports show you how many trackers Safari has blocked on each site you visit, and which websites are the most common sources of trackers.
• Private Browsing Windows stops Safari from remembering the websites you’ve visited, storing any new usernames, passwords, payments cards, and other information you input, and forgetting any search engine queries you’ve run.
• Security indicators and malware protection warn you if you’re visiting a suspected phishing website or a site that contains malicious content, and display a lock icon next to the URL if the site is secure.
• Control over what information you share online , such as preventing cross-site tracking, hiding your IP address from known trackers.

These features make Safari a safe and reliable web browser that protects your data and enhances your online experience. ( Read more about Safari’s privacy features.)

However, Safari is not immune to the problems caused by online advertising due to Safari’s lack of built-in ad blocking features.

What is an Ad Blocker Extension?

An ad blocker extension is a software program that you can install on your web browser to block or filter out unwanted online ads.

The extension works by scanning the web pages you visit and identifying the elements that are related to advertising. Then, it prevents those elements from loading or displaying on your screen.

The benefits of using an ad blocker extension are numerous. For example, an ad blocker extension can:

• Speed up your browsing by reducing the amount of data and resources used by ads.
• Protect your privacy by preventing advertisers from tracking your online activity and collecting your personal information for later targeting.
• Improve your user experience by eliminating annoying and distracting ads and pup-ups that interfere with the content you want to see.

Why Use an Ad Blocker Extension for Safari?

Safari is a great web browser that offers many advantages to its users. However, it also has some drawbacks when it comes to online advertising.

For instance:

• Safari does not have a built-in ad blocker feature to block ads, unlike some other browsers such as Chrome or Firefox.
• Safari’s underlying technology for ad blocker extensions is limited compared to other browsers that give developers more options and variety to thoroughly block trackers and ads.

These factors make Safari users more vulnerable to the negative effects of online advertising. That’s why ad blockers for Safari is highly recommended if you want to enjoy a better and safer browsing experience.

Ghostery, The Best Free Ad Blocker Extension for Safari

There are many ad blockers for Safari, but not all of them are equally effective or reliable. Some of them may not block all types of ads, slow down your browser performance, and even sell your data to third parties.

However, Ghostery is a trusted and reputable brand that has been providing ad blocking and privacy protection solutions for close to 15 years. Ghostery’s Safari ad blocker extension has several features that make it stand out from the rest:

• Ad Blocking: Blocks ads, including banners, pop-ups, video ads, and social media ads.
• Anti-Tracking: Prevents advertisers from tracking your online activity and collecting your personal information. You can also see who is tracking you on each site and why they’re blocked.
• Never-Consent : Automatically rejects cookie consent requests that pop up on many websites. This way, you don’t have to waste time clicking on them or giving away your consent to unwanted cookies.
• Ghostery Panel: Gives you access to a handy panel that shows you the number of ads and trackers blocked on each site. You can also access Ghostery’s settings and support from the panel.

Ad Blocker for Safari on iPad, iPhone, & Mac

One of the best things about Ghostery’s ad blocker on Safari is that it works across multiple devices and operating systems.

Whether you use Safari on your iPad, iPhone, or Mac, you can enjoy the same level of ad blocking and privacy protection with Ghostery.

How to Install Ghostery's Ad Blocker Extension on Safari

To install Ghostery’s ad blocker extension for Safari on your device:

• Go to our website and click on Get Ghostery .
• Follow the on-screen instructions to add the extension to your browser.
• Enjoy an ad-free browsing experience with Ghostery!

Never installed a browser extension on Safari? No worries. Check out our instructions on how to get started or watch our YouTube video guide .

Once you’re finished, you can start blocking ads on your iPhone on any website you visit.

Final Thoughts

Online advertising can be a nuisance and a threat to your experience. That’s why you need an ad blocker extension for Safari, the web browser that millions of people use every day. And the best ad blocker for Safari for you might be Ghostery.

Block all kinds of online ads (including functioning as a Safari YouTube ad blocker), prevent advertisers from tracking you, and reject cookie consent popups. And you can do all that on any device that runs Safari, whether it’s an iPad, an iPhone, or a Mac.

Get in touch if you have any questions. We’re always happy to help.

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Block all YouTube ads with the best Safari extension ever [Awesome Apps]

By D. Griffin Jones • 8:00 am, November 16, 2023

• Top stories

If you love YouTube but hate YouTube ads, Vinegar is the best Safari extension you can download. It blocks all ads on YouTube and restores many iOS-native features like playing videos in the background, picture-in-picture, and more on iPhone, iPad and Mac alike.

YouTube ads are freaking insufferable. But if you don’t want to put down the dough for YouTube Premium (currently $13.99 per month), you can pay a one-time fee of just $1.99 to buy Vinegar for all your Apple devices.

If you ever watch YouTube, Vinegar is life-changing. Get it now on the App Store for iOS, iPadOS and macOS .

Vinegar: Block YouTube ads with native video playback on iPhone, iPad and Mac

Effectively, what Vinegar does is really simple. It replaces the YouTube video player with the built-in iOS (or macOS) video player. That gives you all kinds of benefits.

First of all, you won’t see any ads. Nothing before the video, nothing interrupting the video, nothing in the sidebar. Need I say more? With Vinegar, you always jump straight into the YouTube content you want to watch.

Second, you get a bunch of features back that YouTube takes away from you. You can play a video picture-in-picture to keep watching while you send a text, scroll through social media or play a game. Or, you can play audio in the background without the video: Just start a video, go back to the Home Screen and hit the play button from Control Center.

Finally, if you care about such things, Vinegar uses Apple’s own video player instead of the YouTube interface. It’s a matter of personal preference, but I’m biased toward Apple’s design. I find the YouTube player cluttered and messy.

What’s the catch? Not much.

Keep in mind that, since Vinegar is a Safari extension, this only works on the youtube.com website, not the YouTube app. For best results, you should actually uninstall the YouTube app to prevent links from opening in it instead of Safari. That’s the only major downside to using Vinegar.

On a more minor note, some YouTube-specific features don’t work — information cards that show up in the middle of a video and endscreen buttons. But that’s a small price to pay in exchange for ad-free watching, in my opinion.

This YouTube ad blocker is astonishingly cheap

The literal price you must pay for Vinegar is $1.99, an absolute steal compared to the $13.99 monthly subscription fee for YouTube Premium. Vinegar has a totally clean App Privacy Report, with no data collected at all. And it’s a universal purchase that supports Family Sharing, so you only have to buy it once for your whole household to enjoy ad-free YouTube on all their devices.

Vinegar is a no-brainer to block YouTube ads on iPhone, iPad and Mac. I recommend it for everyone.

Download from: App Store

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5 Best Ad blockers for iPhone and iPad

If, like me, you’re getting increasingly annoyed by pop-ups appearing on your iPhone and iPad, you’ll be glad to know there’s a simple solution. Quality ad blockers for iOS will run silently on your device, preventing chatboxes, banners, pop ads, and other annoyances from bothering you.

Apple’s app store is full of free ad blocker options for iPhones, but in my experience, these are often less robust. Our recommended ad-blocking apps will intercept websites from spying, cookies from tracking, malicious connections and can even block ads on streaming sites like YouTube – features you’ll rarely find on a free app.

To help you cut through the notice, I’ve sifted through and tested ad blockers on the App Store to find the very best. If you don’t have time to read through the rest of the article, our results are summarized below.

The Best Ad blockers for iPhone and iPad List:

• Total Adblock : My best pick for an iPhone and iPad ad-blocker. Able to stop ads from streaming sites and prevent social media trackers too. 
• Adlock : Best budget adblocker or iPhone and iPad. Comprehensive blocking abilities and plenty of scope for customization. 
• AdGuard : An open-source ad-blocker for iOS. Packed with features and has a wide range of filters to choose from. 
• 1Blocker : One of the original ad-blocking apps for iPhone. One of the first companies to make a decent ad-blocker for iPhones and iPads. Still quality.
• Wipr : An easy-to-use ad-blocker for iPhone users. It will also block cookies and trackers but is easy on the wallet. 

How we picked the best iOS ad-blocking apps

As I was testing the ad-blocking apps on the App Store, I had a very strict criteria for adblockers:

• Value for money
• Blocks ads beyond Safari
• Customization
• Additional safety

If you’re interested in knowing more about our testing methodology I cover it in more depth later in this guide.

The Best iPhone and iPad ad blockers: In-depth analysis

Here’s a list of the best adblockers for iPhone and iPad:

1. TotalAdblock

TotalAdblock is a seemingly simple app that can nevertheless deal with all types of ads, notifications and trackers.  

It removes banners, video ads and pop-ups from Safari by default, and provides custom filters to block web elements that you don’t approve of. These don’t necessarily need to be ads, but anything that you’d rather not be there while you browse.  

TotalAdblock also stops ads from appearing on sites using free-with-ad models, such as YouTube and Crunchyroll.  Cookies and trackers are removed and TotalAdblock also provides a dedicated filter for preventing social media sites from tracking you and placing “like” and “share” buttons on the sites you visit. 

The app can speed up loading times by removing cookie and privacy warnings – though you don’t necessarily want to do this for privacy warnings. Simply removing ads should sufficiently speed up the time it takes for pages to load. 

TotalAdblock can be configured to block websites and webpages known to distribute malware, or whitelist sites that you want left alone.

The basic TotalAdblock app is free, but you’ll need to pay an annual subscription to get access to the features listed above. This will also give you access to TotalAV virus protection and PC Tune-Up software too. 

TotalAdblock is compatible with iPhones running iOS 11.0 or later and iPads running iPadOS or later. 

• Total ad-blocking
• Stops social media tracking
• Enables element blocking
• Stops ads on streaming sites
• Paid plan includes TotalAV antivirus
• Annual subscription only for premium plan

BEST AD-BLOCKER:  app for iPhone and iPad. It offers comprehensive blocking of all types of advert, together with malware and virus protection.

Adlock is a powerful ad-blocker that blocks all pop-ups, auto-play ads, banners and unwanted redirects on both Safari sites and in apps. It also stops video and audio ads on streaming services such as Youtube, Twitch, and Crunchyroll – thanks to being able to evade anti-ad-blocker detection. 

Adlock works by applying a series of advertising filters based on EasyList technology (the most popular list used by ad-blockers). The developers recommend using between three and five filters, though you’re free to test and apply new filters in the app’s settings. Using the filters, you can choose what should be blocked on the web pages you visit – pop-up chat boxes, for example.

Additional features include blocking all forms of online tracking scripts and warnings about malicious websites, viruses, phishing attacks, and other forms of online scam. Adlock also enables you to whitelist particular pages or entire websites as desired.

Adlock is compatible with iPhones running iOS 12.1 or later, and iPad’s running iPadOS or later. 

• Blocks all types of ads, including video
• Bypasses ad-block walls
• Spam and scam links warnings
• Free trial period
• Not the easiest for beginners

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: ad-blocker that stops unwanted ads on both websites and apps. 

AdGuard is a veteran provider in the world of ad-blocking. The open-source app removes all kinds of ads in Safari, including banners, pop-ups and video ads. You can whitelist your favorite websites or use a manual blocking tool to hide any elements on a page.

There are a selection of filters aimed directly at stopping trackers and web analytics – with around 50 to choose from in total. AdGuard also enables protection against malicious or fraudulent websites. 

The user-rules module lets you create your own rules — anything from simple allow-listing of a website to something more sophisticated.

AdGuard is ostensibly free, though you’ll need to pay a subscription to access many of the features mentioned above. Prices are based on either a year’s subscription, or a lifetime’s subscription. 

All plans come with a 60-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can try AdGuard for free with a 14-day trial. AdGuard is compatible with iPhones running iOS 11.2 or later, and iPads running iPadOS 11.2 or later. 

• Removes all types of ad 
• Supports manual blocking
• Plenty of filters to choose from
• Sixty-day money-back guarantee
• The app can sometimes freeze up
• No monthly subscription option

HIGHLY ADAPTABLE:  with features and provides a robust ad-blocking service for iPhones and iPads.  

4. 1Blocker

1Blocker is a powerful, independently built-and-maintained app specifically designed for the iOS operating system. As it’s a web extension, it won’t block anything outside of the Safari browser.

When you launch the app, it tells Safari what should be blocked in advance, rather than blocking filtered elements of the already-downloaded page. This improves display speeds and preserves battery life. 

Blocking ads, cookies, comments and the like is as simple as checking the right boxes. Frequent rule updates ensure that your choices stay blocked. 

There are two versions of 1Blocker, with the free option offering less functionality. The paid-for version provides system-wide firewall protection from in-app trackers, a whitelist extension, and the option to sync your settings across all iOS devices. 

It also allows you to tailor the app using custom rules. These rules are divided into several categories, including: allow list, block sites, block cookies, hide elements, and make site https-only. The website has all the information you need to get started with creating custom rules. 

The app is compatible with iPhones running iOS 14.2 or later, and iPads running iPadOS 14.2 or later. New customers signing up to the free version can take advantage of a two-week free trial of the app’s premium features. 

• Create custom rules
• Whitelist extension available
• Two-week free trial
• Only works within Safari
• Could confuse some users

PROVEN TRACK RECORD:  for iPhones and iPads, with plenty of scope for customization and a low subscription fee. 

Wipr is a straightforward and effective ad-blocker for Safari that can be set up in seconds. It blocks all ads, trackers , cryptocurrency miners, EU cookies and GDPR notices on web pages opened in Safari. That said, Wipr specifically states that it is not a security tool, so won’t block malicious, scam or phishing sites. 

Wipr can block ads on some apps, but only those that display websites using the Safari View Controller. This is essentially a screen managed by Safari that apps can use without needing to open the actual Safari browser. Apps like Tweetbot and some other social networking sites use it for all web links. 

If you find that opening sites such as YouTube still results in ads, you can try using the Wipr Extra extension. This provides blocking on a few sites where the Content Blocker API isn’t enough. Wipr Extra isn’t enabled by default as it requires full website access, which raises some privacy issues. If you do want to try it, you’ll need to be running at least iOS 15.

Wipr’s block-list is updated twice a week, which ensures few ads slip past it. You don’t need to do anything – the app will check for updates for you. Indeed, this is the beauty of Wipr on the whole – you don’t need to do anything beyond activating it. While this is great for some, it could be frustrating for those who prefer a little more control. 

The app is compatible with iPhones running iOS 12.0 or later, and iPads running iPadOS 12.0 or later. 

• No acceptable ads
• No custom rules
• No whitelist options

GREAT FOR BEGINNERS:  that’s simple to install and offers impressive blocking ability. 

Methodology: How we chose the 5 best ad-block apps for iPhone and iPad

Being able to block ads is all well and good, but it’s something many people have come to expect from free apps. So what might we expect from a paid-for ad-blocker? We considered the following areas:

• No acceptable ads: The whole point of an ad-blocker is to reduce your exposure to adverts. We don’t like those which allow paid adverts across their threshold. However, some do permit search ads, which are deemed helpful to the user. For example, contextual ads if you’re trying to buy something via a search engine. These types of advert are different to acceptable ads in that the ad-blocker isn’t receiving money for them.
• Value for money: There are plenty of free ad-blockers out there, so we ask that paid-for versions can prove their worth. If they charge too much for a so-so service, then we don’t include them.
• Blocks ads beyond Safari: Ad-blockers that can stop ads beyond just those displayed within Safari are preferred. Ideally, they should prevent ads in apps using free-with-ad models too, such as YouTube , Tubi, and Crunchyroll .
• Customization: We like ad-blockers that allow for the creation of custom rules, and also those that let us add sites to a whitelist.
• Additional safety: A good ad-blocker offers additional features, such as protection against malicious websites, viruses, and phishing attacks . 

Can I use a free ad-block for iPhone and iPad?

If you’ve already spent some time looking for an app to block ads, it’s likely you’ve already come across a number of free options. There are some free ad-block apps that do the job to a basic level. However, I found them to be not as robust as their paid counterparts. They were often employing less stringent blocking rules and came with a lot less customization.

If you come across one that seems to be providing a premium-level service without charging, it’s likely they will be generating an income through other means. Namely your data, or by gatekeeping your ad viewing experience. By limiting the ads you do see to only their “acceptable ads”, they can generate money from advertisers directly. But, this defeats the whole purpose of an ad blocker.

How to enable content blockers on iPhone and iPad

• Download your chosen ad blocker to your iPhone.
• Launch the Settings app.
• Scroll down and tap Safari .
• Under General , tap Content Blockers .
• Activate your chosen content blocker by toggling the switch next to it to the green ON position.

Will these ad blockers work on streaming sites?

Yes, but blocking ads on streaming sites like YouTube is a little more complex. However, some of my recommended ad-blocking apps are up to the task. When testing I had the most success with Total Adblock extension for the Chrome browser.

It does require some setup, but we provide a step-by-step guide in our how to block ads on YouTube guide, so head over there for more information.

FAQs: Best ad-block for iPhone and iPad

Does apple allow ad-blockers.

Yes – Apple first announced that ad blockers would begin working on iPhones in 2015. Developers were quick to react, with the result that the App store now has hundreds to choose from. If you haven’t yet decided on a third-party ad-blocker to use, you can make a start by stopping pop-ups using the iOS built-in pop-up-blocker. Follow these instructions:

• Under General , toggling the switch next to Block Pop-ups to the green ON position.

What are ad-blocking filters?

Ad-blocking sites make frequent reference to filters , which are how ad blockers are told to recognise exactly what an advert – or other element to be blocked – looks like. Filtering rules help them to do this. 

A filtering rule is a line of code that can block an element on a website, or prevent ads from loading. Similar rules are combined into a group called a filter. Example filters include those that remove analytics tags, or one that blocks ads in a particular language. 

Do ad-blockers slow websites down?

No – in fact, they almost always speed things up. Adverts fund a great deal of the content we see online. Research suggests that the code used to generate ads – and also to gather analytical data – is responsible for between 50% and 60% of the total loading time of a page.

A decent ad-blocker – such as TotalAdblock – removes all the offending elements that your computer would otherwise waste time downloading. This includes web banners, pictures, pop-up windows and – worst of all – autoplay audio and video ads. This makes pages easier to read, as well as reducing the amount of bandwidth needed to access them. 

Ad-blockers have the additional benefit of improving online privacy by removing the number of cookies and stopping other behavioral tracking code from running. They can also protect you from malicious content, and will ultimately provide a better user experience overall. 

Do iPhones and iPads have a built-in ad-blocker?

Technically yes, IOS devices come with a built-in ad-blocker. So you might be wondering why you would invest in another. The truth is that these built-in solutions do the bare minimum. They might prevent some pop-ups and banners, but some fall through the cracks. There is also a lot less flexibility with the IOS ad-blocker, as you can’t set specific filters and exceptions like you can on a premium product. This is why we still recommend considering external software to protect your IOS device from ads.

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Roundup - best VPNs for iPhone Adblocker

Privacy alert: websites you visit can find out who you are.

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy.

We recommend using NordVPN - #1 of 72 VPNs in our tests. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available at a discounted rate.

Justin Schamotta

How to block YouTube ads

This article covers AdGuard for iOS, a multifunctional ad blocker that protects your device at the system level. To see how it works, download the AdGuard app

How to block ads in the YouTube app ​

• Open the YouTube app.
• Choose a video and tap Share .
• Tap More , then select Block YouTube Ads (by AdGuard) .

AdGuard will open its ad-free video player.

How to block ads on YouTube in Safari ​

Make sure you've given AdGuard access to all websites. You can check it in Safari → Extensions → AdGuard. Then open AdGuard and enable Advanced protection .

• Open youtube.com in Safari.
• Tap Block YouTube Ads (by AdGuard) .
• How to block ads in the YouTube app
• How to block ads on YouTube in Safari

Best ad blockers for iPhone and iPad in 2022

If you're tired of all the ads but don't want to use Reader View every time you surf the web, you can add content blockers to your iPhone or iPad, which will put them out of sight and help keep your activities private while you're online.

Ad blockers work in Safari and are only available on devices that support 64-bit architecture. In order to use an ad blocker after you've downloaded it, you'll need to enable it in Settings on your iPhone or iPad.

How to block ads on your iPhone and iPad

Here are the best ad blockers for iPhone and iPad.

• AdBlock Pro

1Blocker is really customizable. You can set different rules for blocking ads, trackers, cookies, website comments, Twitter and Facebook widgets, adult websites, and more. Plus, you can add your favorite sites to the Whitelist ( ahem , iMore) and block specific websites from access at all. You can also customize whether to block or allow cookies and page elements from specific sites.

1Blocker is free to download, but it's really more of a trial version. For a $4.99 in-app purchase, you'll be able to unlock the ability to use more than one feature at a time. If your ad-blocking needs are minimal, you'll have a great experience with the free download and just blocking ads or trackers. But if you're looking at 1Blocker, it's probably because you want the advanced features, like custom rules, a Whitelist extension for Safari, and iCloud syncing so your ad block settings are synced across all your iOS devices.

If you really want to customize your web browsing experience, and like the idea of being able to set up rules for different websites, the full, in-app purchase of 1Blocker is worth it.

Master your iPhone in minutes

iMore offers spot-on advice and guidance from our team of experts, with decades of Apple device experience to lean on. Learn more with iMore!

Free with in-app purchases - Download now

AdGuard blocks dozens of different types of ads to speed up your Safari browsing on iPhone and iPad. You can set up rules for specific websites and manually block ads from sites as you visit them using the Share sheet in Safari. You can also use at least two dozen preset filter lists, like EasyList, Malware Domains, and EasyPrivacy, on top of the AdGuard filters. It blocks trackers from social media sites and basically cleans up Safari so your browsing experience is smoother.

With the pro version of AdGuard for $1.99, you can add the ability to use a local DNS proxy to block ads outside of Safari in other web browsers and apps.

Get AdGuard for a clean, fast web browsing experience in Safari.

Free - Download now

If you want a simple ad blocker for iOS Safari, then you should give Wipr a try. This lightweight blocker provides hassle-free blocking just by activating it. Wipr automatically updates itself to make sure that you don't see unwanted ads. However, due to the barebones simplicity that Wipr is known for, you won't find any customizable settings or whitelist options for the sites that you want to support. And best of all, Wipr does not take money in order to let certain ads show up, unlike some other ad blockers that have caused controversy in the past.

Wipr also has an active developer who is always available for support if you have issues.

$2 with in-app purchases - Download now

AdBlock Pro for Safari

If you're serious about blocking ads and want the best feature set, then AdBlock Pro for Safari is what you need. AdBlock will improve your overall Safari experience by blocking all ads, including normal ads and banners, autoplay ads, those pesky fake "x" button ads, scrolling banners, timed popups, redirects to "xxx" sites, YouTube ads in Safari, and no more online tracking. With all of these available ad-blocking options, you will get 2x faster browsing in Safari and over 50 percent lower data usage. AdBlock Pro can even bypass those anti-adblock detectors, sync your settings between devices via iCloud, and much more.

AdBlock Pro is a beefy ad-blocker that gives you a ton of options to improve your online experience. It may have a higher price tag than you would expect, but it's well worth the cost to have a little less annoyance in your online life.

$9 - Download now

Ka-Block! is an open-sourced content blocker for iOS that works with Safari through an extension. With Ka-Block!, you're going to find a fast and curated filter list that will eliminate pretty much all of those annoying ads you'll find on the Internet. The pesky trackers are also blocked with Ka-Block!, so you don't need to worry about those.

With Ka-Block!, you're getting a fast and lightweight content blocker that costs nothing and is constantly updated.

How do you block ads?

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How are you currently blocking ads on YouTube from safari on iPad?

• Thread starter Hori
• Start date May 30, 2021
• Sort by reaction score
• iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
• iOS and iPadOS
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macrumors newbie

• May 30, 2021

Ad block plus has completely stopped working for everybody.  

macrumors member

ad block plus or better way without safari is use altstore and download cercube ipa  

macrumors 68020

I subscribed YouTube premium instead of Apple Music / Spotify due to this reason.  

macrumors 68000

• May 31, 2021

Adguard, google dont need more money..  

YouTube ads in Safari: why do you see them and can they be removed?

macrumors 6502a

Brave browser works great for avoiding ads  

macrumors 603

EM2013 said: AdGuard but it seems like google is going to war against adblockers or something. I don’t know but they’ll never get a dime from me for YT. YouTube ads in Safari: why do you see them and can they be removed? Content blocking in Safari is a thing in and of itself, and it's not good. One of the consequences is ads appearing in YouTube. Why does it happen and can it be prevented? adguard.com Click to expand...

macrumors 6502

• Jun 1, 2021

Gave up on yt on mobile, when I can I use a computer. Not much for the ads, but for the subtitles that just won't stay off. Now, I'm looking for a browser plugin that disables the auto translation of video titles...  

biffuz said: Gave up on yt on mobile, when I can I use a computer. Not much for the ads, but for the subtitles that just won't stay off. Now, I'm looking for a browser plugin that disables the auto translation of video titles... Click to expand...

macrumors 601

PhillyGuy72

Macrumors 68040.

• Jun 2, 2021

Yeah, both iMac Safari and iPadOS Safari, seems like YouTube / Google figured out bypassing the AdBlock. Ugh. I am running Google Chrome on my older iMac and AdBlock, AdBlock for Youtube still works great though.  

Similar to others, I have YouTube Premium via Mexico - $9 USD/month for a family subscription.  

How to efficiently block YouTube ads in Safari

ghostface147

Sucks for the Mac that AdGuard isn’t free like iOS. Wish 1Blocker would figure it out.  

• Jun 4, 2021

ghostface147 said: Sucks for the Mac that AdGuard isn’t free like iOS. Wish 1Blocker would figure it out. Click to expand...

macrumors 65816

• Jun 6, 2021

Hori said: Ad block plus has completely stopped working for everybody. Click to expand...

Samdh90 said: It still is not free but adguard is running a 40% off of all licenses right now. Can't advise how long it will be like this but if you want to act, now would be the best time. Click to expand...

• Jun 7, 2021

BeatCrazy said: Is there a paid solution that works across both macOS and iOS? Preferably one-time purchase. Click to expand...

Bubble99 said: You could look at adblock guard app or use the Brave browser is other option. Click to expand...

macrumors regular

• Jun 21, 2021

I'm having the same problem with Youtube.  

• Jun 22, 2021

minimo3 said: Brave browser works great for avoiding ads Click to expand...

Flight Plan

YouTube has demonitized and even shut down people for putting bonafide TRAINING videos up, or just for having a not-so-politically-correct viewpoint on life. So I've demonitized YouTube by blocking ads. And I skip any that might come through. To Google: Your interpretation of copyright law sucks. Your automatic methods suck for copyright demonitization and shutdowns. You get it wrong more than you get it right. I could play a sequence of chords for a Led Zep song and you'd block it. It's not even the melody. You and your methods suck, and that hurts good people trying to do good things. So come at me, bro. I'll respond by helping all of my friends and family demonitize you back! You've already p*ssed me off more than enough for a lifetime. I'm ready to tear it all down and I'm ready to change copyright law so that public domain is eligible after 10 years, not the stupid 70 that's currently in place. THIS is where we are right now and I'm ready to start hassling my legislators to do this. When I'm done, EVERY DAMNED THING MADE OLDER THAN 2012 WILL BE FREE TO PLAY IN PUBLIC AND FREE TO POST ON YOU*TUBE. Tell me, Google, what will you do when there are suddenly 452,000 versions of "Stairway to Heaven", and half of them are mine? Things that make you go "hmmmm...." ?  

More From Forbes

Youtube’s ad blocker ban just got even bigger.

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Google YouTube’s crackdown on ad blockers has just ramped up further, with the streaming platform introducing new measures to stop users from using the privacy-preserving technology on its site.

YouTube is currently experimenting with server-side ad injection, ad blocking tool SponsorBlock has discovered. This means that the ad is being added directly into the video stream, the developers wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

YouTube is currently experimenting with server-side ad injection, ad blocking tool SponsorBlock has ... [+] discovered.

This breaks SponsorBlock since now all timestamps are offset by the ad times, it says.

“For now, I set up the server to detect when someone is submitting from a browser with this happening and rejecting the submission to prevent the database from getting filled with incorrect submissions,” SponsorBlock wrote.

Previously, when YouTube detected people were using ad blockers, it followed this up with a pop-up box. A warning message would tell the user to disable their ad blocker, pay for YouTube premium, or stop using the platform.

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But some ad blockers couldn’t be detected by YouTube, apparently leaving the Google -owned platform with no choice but to use more involved methods to detect the privacy-preserving tools.

Server side ad injection sees adverts inserted directly into the stream so they can’t be picked up by ad blocking tools. Ad blocking app AdGuard told TechCrunch that while the server-side approach is new to YouTube on the web, the service has already been doing something similar in its mobile apps.

Server side injection is apparently still in testing, but users on social media site Reddit are already reporting problems.

Why Is YouTube Banning Ad Blockers?

YouTube is cracking down on ad blockers because they violate its Terms of Service . Shortly after the ban started last year, Google targeted browser extensions, before cracking down on third party apps available on smartphones and tablets.

It’s “hardly surprising” that YouTube is taking this stance, given that “advertising is an extremely large part of Google’s revenue stream,” says Sean Wright, head of application security at Featurespace.

Unfortunately, this latest move will likely cause most—if not all—current methods of blocking ads to no longer work, says Wright.

Currently ad blockers work on the client side, either via the network layer—blocking the DNS requests to known advertising domains—or by allowing the browser to render or process advertising-related content, such as scripts, Wright says.

If it is done at the server side, there little the client can do prevent this from being rendered in the browser—especially if it is embedded into a video, Wright says. “It’s well-established that any security control must be done on the server side for this very reason, to prevent any client side tampering.”

YouTube Cracks Down on VPN Users

If you are thinking of trying to get a cheaper YouTube Premium subscription by using a virtual private network (VPN) to spoof your location, think again. YouTube appears to be cracking down on Premium subscribers who attempt to use a VPN to access cheaper subscription prices in other countries, according to a report in TechCrunch .

It came after people complained on Reddit when their Premium plans were canceled after they used a VPN to buy a subscription outside of their region.

YouTube confirmed to TechCrunch that it can tell if you are lying about your sign up country, leading to a system prompt that will force you to update your billing information.

What To Do About The YouTube Ad Blocker Crackdown

In the future, Wright suggests someone could launch some type of AI-enabled advertising blocking technology. But for now, users will likely have two choices, says Wright. “Put up with the adverts, or pay up the costs for a subscription that removes adverts.”

Sadly, YouTube’s ad blocking crackdown is set to continue and make no mistake, it will ramp up further. You could always move to another streaming platform—such as Vimeo or Dailymotion—but these don’t tend to have the same breadth of content and often charge a fee themselves.

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YouTube Tries a New, Harder-to-Bypass Method for Stopping Ad Blockers

YouTube is continuing its ad blocker crackdown by testing server-side ad injection.

Typically, a YouTube video will play and then YouTube pauses the video to run an advertisement. Ad blockers can generally bypass the ad by blocking JavaScript that YouTube uses to inject the ads. With server-side ad injection, the user is fed one continuous stream of video with the ad included, thus bypassing the ad blocker.

The change was first spotted by SponsorBlock, an ad blocker that uses crowd-sourced timestamps to block ads based on when they appear in the video. Server-side ad injection breaks SponsorBlock entirely. For now, the developer is filtering out submissions from people who spot server-side ads to avoid messing up its existing database, but it's looking for solutions.

"If YouTube displays any UI such as a clickable link, that means it has to know how long the ad is. SponsorBlock could find this data as well," it says . "There is also the feature for clicking on a timestamp in a comment that would need to know the duration of the ad, so it should be findable somewhere, it just might be kind of hard."

In a statement provided to BleepingComputer , YouTube reiterated that "ad blockers violate YouTube's Terms of Service, and we've been urging viewers for some time to support their favorite creators and allow ads on YouTube or Try YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience."

YouTube has been going after ad blockers for more than a year. Last year, it experimented with a pop-up message that stopped video playback until either the ad blocker was disabled or users signed up for YouTube Premium . More recently, people with ad blockers installed found that videos were randomly skipping to the end or staying muted no matter what they did.

Turning off ad blockers largely fixes these issues, though ad blockers have also done a pretty decent job of adapting .

Easy Adblock for Safari 4+

Block ads & browse faster, andrew shephard.

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Blocks ads from pages and streaming videos! No subscriptions... No Acceptable Ads... Just buy once and block forever on all your devices - Supports iOS, macOS & visionOS. Welcome to Easy Adblock – your one-stop solution for an uninterrupted and private browsing experience! Tired of incessant ads, trackers sneakily collecting your data, and pop-ups disrupting your browsing? Easy Adblock is here to rescue your online world from clutter and intrusion. With our user-friendly app, empower your web experience across all sites and enjoy the web the way it was meant to be: clean, fast, and private. Features: Adblock: Say goodbye to all kinds of unwanted ads. Our advanced ad-blocking technology keeps annoying banners, video ads, and pop-ups at bay. Anti Adblock: Some sites detect adblockers and limit functionality – not on our watch! Browse freely without sites blocking you for using an adblocker. Privacy Shield: Protect your digital footprint. Our Privacy Shield stops trackers in their tracks, ensuring your browsing habits remain yours alone. Cookie Cruncher: Fed up with constant cookie consent notices? Our Cookie Cruncher hides these notifications, keeping your browsing smooth and uninterrupted. Popup Purge: Eliminate distractions. Chat widgets, newsletter popovers, and social widgets won’t bother you anymore. Global Adblock: Our Global Adblock feature targets and blocks region-specific ads, giving you a tailored ad-free experience no matter where you are. Easy Adblock is more than just an ad blocker; it's a comprehensive tool designed to enhance your browsing experience while maintaining your privacy. With just a few taps, you can customize your settings and enjoy a seamless, ad-free journey across the internet. Whether you're reading your favorite blog, watching videos, or shopping online, Easy Adblock works silently in the background, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what matters most. Why Choose Easy Adblock? User-Centric Design: Easy to install and effortless to use. Customize your preferences with our simple interface. Light on Resources: Unlike other adblockers, Easy Adblock won’t slow down your device. It’s lightweight and efficient, designed for optimal performance. Regular Updates: We stay ahead of advertisers. Regular updates ensure that even the newest ad strategies are blocked. Customer Support: Have questions? Our dedicated support team is here to help you with any issues or concerns. Download Easy Adblock now and transform your browsing experience! Keep your focus on content that matters, free from the hassle of ads and trackers.

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After activating per the instructions, Safari websites are still stuffed with ads. No change. What’s the point? Purchase doesn’t work.

Doesnt block anything and apple won’t refund

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YouTube is testing another way to combat ad blockers

YouTube continues its efforts to circumvent ad blockers. Earlier this week, ad blocker SponsorBlock posted that the Google-owned video service is testing out server-side ad injection with a limited number of users.

Essentially, this means that the ad is injected into the video before it arrives on your device (in contrast to client-side ad injection, where the ads arrive at your device separately), making it harder for software to detect and block the ad.

“This breaks sponsorblock since now all timestamps are offset by the ad times,” SponsorBlock said.

A Google spokesperson seemed to confirm the test in a statement, writing that the service is “improving its performance and reliability in serving both organic and ad video content,” with an update that “may result in suboptimal viewing experiences for viewers with ad blockers installed.”

Google reiterated its position that ad blockers “violate YouTube’s Terms of Service” and that viewers who want an ad-free experience should sign up for YouTube Premium.

This is just the latest move in an ongoing battle, with YouTube constantly finding new ways to get around ad blockers and the ad blockers then trying to adapt. In fact, the company rolled out a pop-up message last year that essentially prevented visitors from watching videos on YouTube unless they disabled their ad blockers.

When I spoke to the companies behind several ad blockers last fall, Ghostery’s director of product and engineering Krzysztof Modras told me that “as one of the world’s largest publishers, YouTube constantly invests in circumventing ad blocking” and that it “seems to be adapting [its] methods more frequently than ever before.”

More recently, an email from another ad blocker, AdGuard, suggested that while the server-side approach is new to YouTube on the web, the service has already been doing something similar in its mobile apps. 

AdGuard said it remains “optimistic that solutions will emerge, albeit requiring concerted efforts and innovative approaches from ad-blocking developers and ad filtering community.”

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