Internet users are well-versed with the advertising strategy that is a key revenue generator for companies and publications alike. If you cannot stand ads while browsing your favourite websites using Safari browser, Apple iOS 9 has opened doors for a new app category: ad blockers. As the name suggests, these apps will sway adverts on the website you visit and increase your browsing speed.
Advertisements are essential for news channels that make most of their profits from companies sponsoring their products on their websites. Publications such as NY Times, CNN, CNET and also International Business Times, rely on these ads to pay for the articles published by journalists. On a larger front, Google's main business model depends on mobile advertisements and ad blockers are worrisome.
For users, getting their online purposes served without the need to see ads on websites can be a pleasant experience. Sifting through Apple's new app category, we found some of the best free and paid ad-blockers for iOS 9 powered devices.
1. AdBlock Plus
AdBlock Plus is a free app available on Apple App Store and also one of the most popular apps in the store. Users can choose not to see any advertisement on the websites they visit using Safari browser but the app's developer shared a new feature with its users, where they can opt to see non-annoying ads.
"AdBlock is now participating in the Acceptable Ads program. Acceptable Ads defines strict guidelines to identify non-annoying ads, which AdBlock now shows by default. This way, you can help support your favorite websites -- and if you still want to block every ad, you can disable this easily," the message read, according to CNET.
AdBlocker also has a feature to stop malware from entering your smartphone.
2. 1Blocker
1Blocker is another free app with multiple customisation options. You are in full control of blocking any content on the websites, such as target ads, social media share buttons, adult content, tracking software and more. 1Blocker also lets you set custom blocking packages and includes 7,000 pre-loaded blockers. As a result, the mobile browsing data is cut in half or even more.
The free ad-blocker is available for download on iTunes.
3. Blockr
In simple words, Blockr looks like a paid version of 1Blocker with its own unique features. The app uses Safari extensions to change the settings while browsing the Internet. It also blocks ads, social buttons, cookies and prevents tracking cookies from getting your personal info.
Blockr is available for download from iTunes for $0.99.
4. Crystal
Crystal is a pretty straightforward app and either lets you block all ads or allow them. There are no customisation options unlike other apps in the store. The service comes at a cost as Crystal is priced at $0.99. You can download the app from App Store.
5. Purify
The most expensive ad-blocker in the list, Purify justifies the cost by packing several customisation options. Using the app, users can block ads, trackers and additionally choose to block images, script and custom fonts to keep your browsing speed high and mobile data consumption low.
Purify is available in Apple App Store with a price tag of $4.99.
All apps in the list require your iPhone or iPad to run the latest iOS 9 version.
