The main ways to block ads on iPhone
You can block ads on iPhone in three ways: using Safari's built-in content blocker, installing a third-party ad-blocking app, or using a VPN app that filters ads. Safari's content blocker is the simplest — it works within Safari only and requires you to turn it on in Settings. Third-party apps like AdBlock Plus or 1Blocker work across Safari and some other browsers, though they vary in what they block. VPN-based blockers like Pi-hole or NextDNS filter ads across your entire phone, including in apps, but they're more complex to set up and may slow your connection slightly.
The trade-off is between ease and reach. Safari's built-in blocker is free and instant but only covers web browsing. App-based blockers cover more ground but require installation and sometimes a subscription. Network-level blockers (VPNs and DNS filters) block the most ads but affect your whole device and your internet speed.
Key Takeaways
- Safari has a free content blocker built into Settings under Safari > Content Blockers, and you can turn it on without installing anything extra.
- Third-party apps like AdBlock Plus, 1Blocker, and Ghostery block ads in Safari and some other browsers, though some charge a subscription fee.
- VPN and DNS-based blockers like Pi-hole, NextDNS, and Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 filter ads across your entire phone, including inside apps, but may reduce connection speed.
- No blocker catches every ad, and some websites block access if they detect ad blocking software.
Using Safari's built-in content blocker
Safari comes with a content blocker that you can turn on without downloading anything. Open Settings, scroll to Safari, tap Content Blockers, and toggle on the blocker you want to use. Apple includes a basic blocker by default, but you can also install third-party blockers from the App Store and activate them here.
This method works only in Safari, not in Chrome, Firefox, or other browsers on your phone. It also won't block ads inside apps — only ads on websites. The built-in blocker is free and doesn't slow your phone down noticeably, but it's less aggressive than third-party options and may miss some ads.
Installing a third-party ad-blocking app
Apps like AdBlock Plus, 1Blocker, Ghostery, and Stands block ads in Safari and sometimes in other browsers. Search for any of these in the App Store, install the app, then go to Settings > Safari > Content Blockers and toggle it on. Some apps are free with limited blocking; others charge a one-time fee or subscription for stronger filtering.
Third-party blockers are more aggressive than Safari's default and catch more ads, including video ads and banner ads on most websites. However, they work only in Safari unless the app description says otherwise. Some websites detect ad blockers and either show a message asking you to turn it off or block you from viewing content entirely. If that happens, you can turn off the blocker temporarily in Safari settings, reload the page, then turn it back on.
Using a VPN or DNS-based blocker for network-wide filtering
VPN apps and DNS filters block ads across your entire phone — in Safari, Chrome, apps, and everywhere else. Popular options include Pi-hole (which requires a home network setup), NextDNS, Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 for Families, and Adguard. You install the app, follow its setup steps, and it filters traffic before ads even reach your phone.
The advantage is comprehensive coverage: ads disappear from apps, email, and websites all at once. The disadvantage is that these tools work by routing your internet through a filter, which can slow your connection by 5 to 15 percent depending on the service. Some also require a subscription. Additionally, websites that detect VPN use may block you, and some apps won't work if they detect a VPN is active.
Comparing the three approaches
| Method | Cost | Where it works | Setup time | Speed impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safari content blocker | Free | Safari only | 2 minutes | None |
| Third-party app blocker | Free to $10/year | Safari, sometimes other browsers | 5 minutes | Minimal |
| VPN or DNS blocker | Free to $5/month | Entire phone | 10–20 minutes | 5–15% |
What ad blockers can and cannot do
Ad blockers remove banner ads, video ads, and pop-ups from most websites. They work best on news sites, blogs, and video platforms. However, they cannot block every ad — some ads are embedded in the page itself and look like regular content, and some websites use techniques that blockers can't detect.
Many websites rely on ad revenue and will detect when you're using a blocker. Some show a message asking you to turn it off; others block you from reading until you do. A few sites block access entirely if they detect ad-blocking software. There's no way around this except to turn off your blocker for that site, use a different browser without a blocker, or stop visiting the site.
Blocking ads in specific apps
Ad blockers don't work inside most apps — only on websites. If an app shows ads and you want to remove them, your options are limited. Some apps offer a paid version without ads, which you can find by searching the App Store for the app name plus "premium" or "pro." Others have a subscription option within the app itself that removes ads.
If an app is free and shows ads, and there's no paid version, you're stuck with the ads unless you stop using the app. VPN and DNS-based blockers sometimes catch ads in apps, but not reliably, and they may break the app's functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will ad blockers break websites or apps?
Ad blockers rarely break websites, but some websites detect them and block access or show a message asking you to turn them off. Apps are more likely to break if you use a VPN-based blocker, since some apps refuse to run when they detect a VPN. If a site or app stops working, try turning off your blocker temporarily.
Do ad blockers slow down my iPhone?
Safari content blockers and third-party app blockers have almost no impact on speed. VPN and DNS-based blockers can slow your connection by 5 to 15 percent because they route all your traffic through a filter. The slowdown depends on the service and your internet speed.
Can I block ads in YouTube on iPhone?
Safari content blockers and third-party blockers can remove some YouTube ads on the website version, but not on the YouTube app. To avoid ads in the YouTube app, you need a YouTube Premium subscription. Some VPN blockers may reduce ads in the app, but YouTube actively works against this.
Is it legal to use an ad blocker?
Yes, using an ad blocker on your own device is legal in most countries. However, websites can refuse to let you view their content if they detect a blocker, and some terms of service say you agree not to use one. It's a legal gray area, but enforcement is rare.
What's the difference between a VPN and a DNS blocker?
A VPN encrypts all your traffic and routes it through a server, which blocks ads but also hides your IP address. A DNS blocker only filters ad domains at the DNS level without encrypting traffic. DNS blockers are faster but less private; VPNs are slower but more secure. For ad blocking alone, DNS blockers are usually enough.