Ka-Block!

What Ka-Block! is

Ka-Block! is a free Safari content blocker that filters a curated selection of advertisements and trackers. It is available as an extension and for iOS and macOS, with desktop and mobile device coverage. The project’s goal is to block most ads and trackers without slowing pages, though some ads may still get through. Its maker says blocking third-party scripts can reduce page load time, data use, and battery drain.

The project says its filtering code makes no network connections and that the extension does not access pages loaded by the browser. Apple’s listing reports the developer’s disclosure that the app does not collect data. Ka-Block! is released under the MIT license, but users cannot supply custom filter lists. The blocked-domain list changes only when the extension is released in a new version. Users can submit a pull request with an ad-serving domain and a site where its ads appear. The App Store version history lists version 3.5, dated November 6, 2021. The iOS listing requires iOS 12.0 or later; the iPad listing requires iPadOS 12.0 or later.

Who it suits

Ka-Block! suits Safari users who want a free, curated way to block ads and trackers across desktop and mobile devices. Its MIT-licensed project and pull-request route may also suit people who want to contribute domain suggestions.

Limits

The filter list is curated and cannot be supplemented with custom lists. The blocked-domain list is updated only through a new extension version, and some ads may get through.

Getting started

1. Visit https://kablock.com/ to access the project.
2. Choose the extension or iOS/macOS option for your device.
3. For iOS, use a device running iOS 12.0 or later; iPad requires iPadOS 12.0 or later.
4. Use the free Safari content blocker.

Verdict

Choose Ka-Block! if you use Safari and want a free, open-source blocker with a curated filter list. Look elsewhere if you need custom filter lists or want domain updates independent of new extension releases.