Ads are an integral part of the digital landscape, enabling many websites and app developers to provide free content.
For many of your favorite fan sites and apps, ads are essential for keeping costs low.
However, an overabundance of ads can severely diminish user experience, making it hard to enjoy content. Moreover, excessive ads can slow down even the latest Android phones and drain battery life.
If you’re tired of intrusive ads cluttering your Android device, you’re in the right place!
This guide will explore various methods to effectively limit or eliminate ads from your Android phone or tablet, ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable user experience.
1. Block Ads in Google Chrome
Google Chrome has built-in features to help you block unwanted ads, pop-ups, and redirects. Here’s how to get started:
- Open Google Chrome on your Android phone.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top right corner and select Settings.
- Scroll to Site Settings.
- Under the Content section, select Pop-ups and Redirects and turn off the toggle.
- Go back to Site Settings and choose Intrusive Ads, then disable that toggle as well.
If you prefer a more robust ad-blocking solution while browsing the web, consider using an alternative browser like Samsung Internet or Firefox, both of which support ad-blocker extensions.
Recommended Browsers with Built-in Ad Blockers:
- Samsung Internet Browser: Offers an extension store for ad blockers.
- Brave Browser: Provides a native ad-free browsing experience.
- Firefox Fast & Private Browser: Known for its privacy features and ad-blocking capabilities.
2. Manage Notifications from Websites
Allowing every website to send notifications can lead to a torrent of irrelevant alerts. To manage notifications in Chrome:
- Long press the Chrome app icon and tap the i button.
- Open Notifications > Notification Categories.
- Scroll to Sites to see which websites have permission to send notifications.
- Turn off permission for unwanted websites from the list.
For enhanced privacy, consider disabling targeted ad tracking on Google Chrome.
3. Block Home Screen Ads
Ads on your home screen can be particularly annoying, as they often interfere with app functionality. Follow these steps to manage app permissions:
- Long press the app icon that displays ads.
- Select App Info and scroll to Appear on Top.
- Disable the Allow Permission toggle.
If the app isn’t essential, consider uninstalling it to eliminate the ads completely.
4. Disable Wallpaper Services
Some Android devices feature wallpaper services that display ads or content on your lock screen. To disable this feature:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Wallpaper and Style > Change Wallpapers.
- Scroll down to Wallpaper Services and select None.
5. Utilize a DNS Service for Ad Blocking
Setting up a DNS service is a straightforward way to block ads across your device. AdGuard provides two DNS addresses for this purpose:
- Family-friendly: family.adguard-dns.com (blocks adult content)
- Ad blocker: dns.adguard-dns.com
To set up a DNS ad blocker:
- Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Tap Connections > More connection settings.
- Select Private DNS and choose Private DNS provider hostname.
- Enter your chosen AdGuard DNS service, then tap Save.
Keep in mind that while many ads are simply for marketing, some can be malicious. Always prioritize caution when browsing.
6. Consider Premium App Subscriptions
Sometimes, the easiest way to avoid ads is to pay for them. Many apps offer a premium version that removes ads and unlocks additional features. For instance, YouTube and Spotify both offer subscription plans that allow users to enjoy content without interruptions.
7. Be Selective in App Installations
To minimize ad exposure, avoid apps known for heavy advertisements. When downloading apps, pay attention to reviews and steer clear of those with low ratings or numerous complaints about ads. Google Play Protect can help prevent malicious apps, but it’s wise to read reviews before installing any new application.
