Shift Browser Launches Blocker to Give Users More Control Over Ads, Pop-Ups and Interruptions

Built-in Blocker filters unwanted ads and tracking - no extensions needed

VICTORIA, BC, Oct. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Shift Browser today announced the launch of Blocker, a configurable, built-in tool that stops tracking scripts and video ads with no extensions required.

Blocker comes standard in Shift and allows users to select trusted filter lists and favorite sites, putting control over the browsing experience directly in their hands.

"Our users come to Shift because they want more say in how they browse," said Neil Henderson, CEO at Shift. "Blocker brings that same idea to privacy and advertising. It's built directly into the browser, is upfront about what it's doing and is customizable so users can decide exactly what they want to block or allow."

Putting Users In Control

Most browsers make decisions on behalf of users, including tab layout and default ad and tracker handling. Shift takes a different approach, allowing users to customize their browser around how they actually work.

Under the hood, Blocker runs on adblock-rust, the same trusted, open-source ad-blocking engine already used by other privacy-focused browsers. It works quietly in the background, checking pages against continuously updated filter lists and stopping selected ads, tracking scripts before they reach the screen.

With Shift Advanced, users additionally get video ad blocking, which blocks pre-roll, mid-roll and post-roll advertising. For users who rely heavily on video for research, learning or entertainment, this means no more interruptions in their browsing experience.

"People should get to decide what their browsing experience looks like," Henderson said. "That means real choices, not a one-size-fits-all default. Blocker is one more way we're handing that control back to our users."

Key Features of Blocker

• Built-in ad blocking: Native to Shift, with no separate extension to install or manage.
• Video ad blocking: Skip pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll video ads (Shift Advanced).
• Tracker blocking: Stops common scripts that track browsing activity.
• Customizable filter lists: Choose from a curated selection of filter lists and easily toggle them on or off based on your preferences.
• Allowlisting controls: Simple controls to allowlist ads and trackers per page or per site.

Blocker is free for all Shift users starting today, with video ad blocking included as part of Shift Advanced.

Download Shift Browser at shift.com/download.

About Shift

Shift is a customizable browser built to give people greater choice and control over how they work and browse online. Shift brings apps, accounts, tabs and tools into customizable Spaces, helping users organize their digital lives around the way they actually work.

With privacy-conscious features, optional AI and tools designed to reduce digital overload, Shift is building an alternative to one-size-fits-all browsing.

As part of the Redbrick portfolio of companies, Shift is a Certified B Corp and a pioneer in carbon-neutral browsing.

SOURCE Shift Technologies Inc.