Microsoft surprises Xbox users with a built-in Ad blocker for Edge

Microsoft is reportedly testing built-in ad blocker for Edge in Xbox. The feature uses Easylist for this, aims to reduce webpage size by blocking some content.

Microsoft Edge on Xbox has is a simplified browser, designed for use with a controller and on a TV screen. Unlike its desktop counterpart, the Xbox version does not support browser extensions, including ad blockers.

We have some good news as highlighted by a Reddit user, Microsoft appears to be addressing this limitation. A screenshot shared on the platform reveals of enabled built-in ad blocking feature under the “Optimize Performance” settings in Edge on Xbox.

The text reads: “Reduce webpage size by blocking some content. This feature uses an open-source list of URLs and page elements to block content. The URLs on the list are blocked from downloading content during page load. The page elements on the list are removed during the page load. The Easylist can be reviewed here and is maintained by the Easylist Project.”

This indicates that Microsoft is using the Easylist, a widely used open-source filter list maintained by the Easylist Project, to block ads and other unwanted content.

The introduction of this feature comes at an interesting time. Amidst the heated debate over ad blockers, Microsoft’s move to incorporate ad-blocking functionality into Edge on Xbox might be viewed as a reaction to user expectations. On the other hand, it could simply be a coincidence, as the company persistently works on enhancing its browser for gaming consoles.

The addition of built in Ad blocker to Microsoft Edge on Xbox helps reducing intrusive ads and improve browsing performance.