How to Block Ads on iPhone: A Quick Guide

Ads can be incredibly intrusive on your iPhone, disrupting your browsing experience and invading your privacy. Blocking these ads not only enhances your user experience but also secures your online data.

As an app developer, I’ve seen countless users struggle with disabling these unwanted advertisements in iOS applications and browsers. By the end of this article, you’ll learn effective methods and tools to block ads on your iPhone, including specific applications such as AdGuard, 1Blocker, and Purify.

We will delve into Safari browser settings and content blockers, along with privacy features in iOS 16. This guide will also cover steps to disable ads in apps available on the App Store, and the role of Norton Ad Blocker and Kaspersky Internet Security in securing your device.

Whether it’s blocking pop-ups, removing banner ads, or preventing ad tracking, this article has your comprehensive guide to a smoother, ad-free iPhone experience.

How to Block Ads on iPhone: Quick Workflow

Using Built-in Settings

1. Block Pop-ups in Safari:
   • Go to Settings > Safari.
   • Toggle on Block Pop-ups to prevent pop-up ads from appearing while browsing.
2. Prevent Cross-Site Tracking:
   • In the Safari settings menu, scroll down to Privacy & Security.
   • Enable Prevent Cross-Site Tracking and Hide IP Address from Trackers to enhance your privacy and reduce targeted ads.
3. Disable Personalized Ads:
   • Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising.
   • Turn off Personalized Ads to stop ads tailored to your browsing habits.

Installing an Ad Blocker

1. Choose a Reliable Ad Blocker:
   • Download a reputable ad blocker such as AdGuard, Total Adblock, or 1Blocker from the App Store. These apps can block ads across various browsers and apps.
2. Set Up the Ad Blocker:
   • After installation, go to Settings > Safari > Extensions or Content Blockers.
   • Enable the content blockers you installed.

Alternative Browsing Options

1. Use an Ad-Free Browser:
   • Consider downloading browsers like Brave, which blocks ads and trackers by default, providing a smoother browsing experience without additional setup.
2. DNS-Based Ad Blocking:
   • For a more comprehensive solution, you can set up a custom DNS service like AdGuard DNS. This method blocks many ads across different apps without needing an app installation:
     • Visit the AdGuard DNS website and follow instructions to install the DNS profile on your iPhone.
     • Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, then install the downloaded profile.

Summary of Steps

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce or eliminate ads while using your iPhone, enhancing both your browsing experience and privacy.

Ad Blocking Capabilities on iPhone

Native Ad Blocking Features in iOS

iPhones have come a long way in providing ad-blocking capabilities. Since iOS 9, we’ve seen significant improvements. Safari brought in built-in ad-blocking features which were a game-changer. Safari’s pop-up blocker is just the beginning.

Introduction of iOS Ad-Blocking Features

Since iOS 9, the advancements have been steady. With Apple’s updates, users got tools to make their browsing experience smoother. Safari’s capabilities, combined with the Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) feature, work wonders. ITP limits advertisers’ ability to track your online behavior.

Built-in Safari Ad-Blocking Capabilities

Safari now offers various layers of protection. The default pop-up blocker helps, but it’s the integration of content blockers that truly stands out. Through Safari settings, users can enable content blocking, hide their IP address from trackers, and block cookies.

Apple’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) Feature

The ITP feature fights back against cross-site tracking. This innovation doesn’t just block ads; it shields your privacy. Advertisers crave your data, but ITP keeps them at bay. It’s a silent guardian, ensuring your online moves remain your own.

Compatibility of iPhones with Third-Party Ad Blockers

Apple’s native tools are robust, but sometimes, you need that extra layer of security. Third-party ad blockers step in here, amplifying iPhone’s capabilities.

How Third-Party Ad Blockers Enhance iPhone Security

These tools offer more than just blocking pop-ups. They add extra layers of protection by filtering out malicious ads that Apple’s native system might miss. Enhanced security from apps like AdGuard and Total Adblock can give peace of mind, especially against adware.

Integration of Ad Blockers with Safari

Third-party ad blockers seamlessly integrate with Safari. Once installed, they work harmoniously with Safari’s own blocking features. It’s like fortifying a strong wall with an even stronger gate. This symbiotic relationship makes browsing faster and safer.

Examples of Popular iOS Ad Blockers

AdGuard and Total Adblock are top choices. AdGuard offers extensive filters for different ad types. You can even manually block page elements you find intrusive. Total Adblock, on the other hand, provides comprehensive ad blocking and privacy protection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blocking Ads on iPhone

Updating iOS for Enhanced Ad Blocking

To block ads effectively, keeping your iOS updated is crucial. Not only do updates fix bugs, but they also enhance security features, including ad-blocking capabilities.

Importance of using the latest iOS version

Latest iOS versions come packed with improved ad blocking features. They enhance compatibility with various ad blockers and bolster Apple’s built-in privacy settings. Staying current ensures optimal performance against ads and trackers.

How to update your iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to General.
3. Tap on Software Update.
4. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Keeping your iPhone updated ensures you have the latest tools for blocking intrusive ads.

Blocking Ads in Safari

Apple’s built-in Safari browser comes with a host of settings to keep ads at bay. By leveraging these settings, you can significantly reduce ad interruptions.

Enabling built-in pop-up blocking in Safari

Navigate to Settings > Safari > Block Pop-ups. Toggle it on. This feature prevents those annoying pop-up ads that clutter your screen.

Enabling content blockers through Safari settings

Content blockers are a potent weapon in your ad-blocking arsenal.

Preventing cross-site tracking

Go to Settings > Safari > Prevent Cross-Site Tracking. Toggle it on. This stops advertisers from following you around the web.

Hiding IP address from trackers

Still within Settings > Safari, find the setting for Hide IP Address. Toggle it to Trackers and Websites. This ensures your IP stays hidden, making it harder for ads to target you.

Blocking cookies and enabling fraud prevention

Head to Settings > Safari > Block All Cookies. While you’re there, ensure Fraudulent Website Warning is toggled on. This blocks cookies and helps prevent you from visiting phishing sites.

Disabling Personalized and Location-Based Ads

These ads use your data to target you specifically. Turning them off can drastically reduce their appearance.

How to turn off personalized ads via Apple Advertising settings

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Privacy > Apple Advertising.
3. Toggle Personalized Ads off.

Disabling location-based ads in Location Services

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Privacy > Location Services.
3. Scroll to System Services.
4. Toggle Location-Based Apple Ads off.

Managing Cellular Data and App-Specific Ad Blocking

Sometimes, ads are tied to specific apps or datasets. By managing these settings, you can cut them off at the source.

Turning off cellular data for specific apps to block ads

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Cellular.
3. Scroll to find the app you want to restrict.
4. Toggle off Cellular Data for that app.

Using airplane mode to block ads that require internet

Airplane mode disables all internet access, which in turn stops ads that need a connection from appearing. Simply:

1. Open Control Center.
2. Tap on the Airplane icon.

This method is a bit extreme and limits functionality but can be handy in a pinch.

Exploring Third-Party Ad Blockers for iPhone

Popular Ad Blockers for iOS

Ad blockers add an extra layer of protection. Let’s dive into AdGuard and Total Adblock.

Overview of AdGuard and Total Adblock

AdGuard—a name that stands out. Shields you from online annoyances while ensuring privacy. Total Adblock—another contender, formidable in its ad-blocking prowess. Both excel in stopping ads dead in their tracks.

How these blockers function within Safari and apps

They work seamlessly with Safari and other apps. AdGuard and Total Adblock integrate smoothly, filtering out intrusive ads as you browse. They enhance the built-in capabilities of Safari, offering a fortified browsing experience.

Advanced Features of Ad Blockers

The magic lies in the advanced features.

Use of filters to block different ad types

Filters are the unsung heroes. They target specific ad types—be it banners, pop-ups, or trackers. They’re your customizable defense shield.

Manual blocking of page elements using ad blockers

Flexibility is key. These tools allow you to manually block elements on a page. Annoying ad in the middle of an article? Banished with a click.

Setting Up and Fine-Tuning Ad Blockers

The setup is straightforward. Become the master of your ad-blocking domain.

How to download and install ad blockers from the App Store

1. Open the App Store.
2. Search for AdGuard or Total Adblock.
3. Tap Get and install. Simple, efficient.

Adjusting settings within the ad blocker app

Once installed, dig into the settings.

Enabling or disabling specific filters

Navigate the app’s interface. Toggle filters on or off based on your needs. More control means a tailored browsing experience.

Managing custom rules and allowlisting trusted sites

Other Methods to Minimize Ads on iPhone

Using Ad-Free Browsers

Ad-free browsers. They exist. They work.

Benefits of using alternative browsers like Brave

Brave stands out. Fast. Secure. Built-in ad-blocking. No need for external add-ons. Less clutter. More privacy.

Comparison between Safari with ad blockers and Brave browser

Safari with AdGuard or Total Adblock—solid combination. But Brave? Integrated ad-blocking from the get-go. It’s like having a privacy shield built into your browser. No setup, no fuss.

Turning Off Suspicious Extensions

Extensions can be a problem. Ads sometimes slip through because of them.

How browser extensions may contribute to ads

Browser extensions sometimes bring along unwanted ads. Even those promising to help can be the culprits. Not all extensions, but some.

Steps to disable untrusted or unnecessary extensions

1. Open Settings in your browser.
2. Navigate to Extensions.
3. Identify the suspicious ones.
4. Disable or remove them.

Less is more. Fewer extensions, fewer ads.

Disabling Internet Connection to Avoid Ads

Drastic, but effective. Ads can’t load without the internet.

Using airplane mode or turning off Wi-Fi and mobile data

Airplane mode—an ultimate ad-blocker. No Wi-Fi, no mobile data, no ads. Simple logic.

1. Swipe down to open the Control Center.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon.

Short, quick fix when ads get too invasive.

When this method is useful and its limitations

Great for a distraction-free moment. Playing offline games? Reading downloaded content? Perfect.

Limitations? Major ones. No new data. No browsing. No updates. Use sparingly.

Why Blocking Ads Improves Your iPhone Experience

Reducing Distractions and Improving Usability

Blocking ads has immediate benefits. Let’s get straight to it.

Fewer interruptions during gaming or video streaming

Ads are the worst during gaming or streaming. Kill them, and what you get is pure, uninterrupted gameplay and video. No annoying pop-ups, no banner ads cutting through your screen time.

Enhanced content consumption without visual clutter

Content feels better without clutter. You read, you watch, you play—no visual noise. Clear screens lead to clearer minds. Ads gone, focus on content remains.

Protecting Privacy and Security

Ads are more than just annoying; they’re sneaky. Let’s tackle this.

Preventing data tracking and reducing targeted ads

Ads track you. Every click, every site visit, gathering data. Blocking ads cuts off these tentacles. Less data tracking means fewer targeted ads. Apple’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) does half the job. Ad blockers complete the mission.

Safeguarding against malware embedded in ads

Malicious ads exist. They trick you, install malware. With blocks in place, you shut this threat down. Ad blockers act as shields, ensuring safer browsing. No nasty surprises.

Saving Battery and Data Usage

Ads cost more than just time. They drain your iPhone, too.

How ads drain battery life and consume mobile data

Ads are power hungry. They load media, run scripts, consume data. Turn them off, and you’ll see your battery last longer. Data usage drops as well. No more unnecessary downloads eating into your data plan.

Measurable improvements in iPhone performance with fewer ads

Performance goes up. Faster loading times, smoother operation. No ads bogging down your iPhone. You notice the difference—battery savings, data savings, overall efficiency.

Ensuring Safer Browsing for Families

Family iPhones, especially kids’, need ad protection.

Blocking inappropriate or explicit content

Not all ads are family-friendly. Some are inappropriate, some explicit. Blocking them means kids see only what they should. Controlled, safe browsing environments for families.

Parental control benefits for children’s iPhone use

Parental controls become more effective. Blocking ads ensures compliance with guidelines you set. Kids stay safe, and their experiences are clean and educational.

Optimizing iPhone Settings for a Cleaner Browsing Experience

Adjusting Safari Privacy and Security Settings

Dial in your iPhone for a fresh, ad-free browsing journey.

How to block cross-site tracking

Ads track you. Safari can stop it. Head into Settings, then Safari. Enable Prevent Cross-Site Tracking.

Job done. Tracking gets much harder for those ads.

Enabling fraud warnings and privacy-preserving ad measurement

Let’s stay safe, yeah? Still in Safari settings, toggle on Fraudulent Website Warning. Keeps you away from dangerous sites.

For privacy-preserving ad measurement, go to Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising. Activate Limit Ad Tracking. It sanitizes the ad game.

Managing Notifications and Push Ads

Silence the noise. Ads sneak in through notifications.

Turning off push notifications from websites and apps

Open Settings, tap Notifications.

Find the noisy app, flip Allow Notifications off. Websites? Same drill in Safari settings, under Website Notifications.

Goodbye, interruptions.

Limiting advertising notifications in the iPhone’s settings

Go to Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising. Toggle Personalized Ads off.

Ad spammers lost their edge.

FAQ on How To Block Ads On iPhone

How do I block ads on my iPhone?

To block ads on your iPhone, you can install an ad-blocking app from the App Store like AdGuard or 1Blocker. You can also enable content blockers in Safari browser settings. Open Settings > Safari > Content Blockers and toggle on the desired blocker.

Can I block ads in Safari on iPhone?

Yes, you can block ads in Safari by using content blockers. Download an app such as Purify or AdBlock Plus, go to Settings > Safari > Content Blockers, and enable the blocker. This will help you enjoy ad-free browsing on your iPhone.

Are there free apps to block ads on iPhone?

Several free apps, including AdBlock Plus and Ghostery, are available to block ads on your iPhone. Download them from the App Store and follow the setup instructions to start blocking unwanted ads and enjoy a smoother, ad-free experience.

How can I block ads in iPhone apps?

Blocking ads in iPhone apps can be tricky. Some apps like AdGuard offer in-app ad blocking features. Alternatively, using the Norton Ad Blocker can provide a more comprehensive solution. Note that effectiveness may vary based on the app.

Can ad blockers prevent tracking on iPhone?

Absolutely, using ad blockers such as Kaspersky Internet Security can help prevent ad tracking. These tools block trackers embedded in advertisements, making your iPhone usage more secure and protecting your online privacy.

How do I remove pop-up ads on my iPhone?

To remove pop-up ads, enable content blockers in Safari and use ad-blocking apps. Go to Settings > Safari > Block Pop-ups to enable this feature. Apps like Crystal Adblock can enhance your online security by blocking intrusive ads.

Is there a built-in ad blocker for iPhone?

While iPhone itself doesn’t have a built-in ad blocker, it supports third-party content blockers. For example, Safari allows you to install and enable blockers like Wipr and 1Blocker via the Settings > Safari > Content Blockers menu.

Do ad blockers work on YouTube app on iPhone?

Ad blockers typically don’t work as well on the YouTube app due to its proprietary app environment. However, viewing YouTube through a browser like Safari with an ad blocker enabled can reduce banner ads and improve your viewing experience.

How do I block ads on My iPhone without an app?

Blocking ads without an app involves tweaking settings in Safari. Go to Settings > Safari > enable Block Pop-ups and Prevent Cross-Site Tracking. While not as effective as third-party apps, these settings provide a basic level of ad control.

Are ad blockers legal to use on iPhone?

Yes, ad blockers are legal to use on iPhones. They are available through legitimate means like the App Store and Safari settings. Apps like AdGuard and 1Blocker comply with Apple’s policies, ensuring they are safe and effective to use.

Conclusion

Blocking ads on iPhone offers a smoother, distraction-free experience, improves privacy, and enhances security. With tools like AdGuard, 1Blocker, and Norton Ad Blocker, you can effectively block ads.

For Safari browser settings, enable content blockers and block pop-ups by navigating to Settings > Safari > Content Blockers. This simple adjustment helps in eliminating intrusive ads during web browsing.

App Store offers multiple ad-blocking applications that are effective in removing ads within various apps. Additionally, enabling privacy settings like Prevent Cross-Site Tracking in iOS 16 adds an extra layer of security against unwanted ads and trackers.

Ad blockers are legal, and tools like Kaspersky Internet Security comply with Apple’s policies, ensuring safe usage. Utilize features within the Settings app for ad-free browsing on your iPhone.

Using these methods, you’ll achieve a smoother, secure, and enjoyable digital environment free from unwanted interruptions and targeted ads.

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Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.

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