Dealing with Unwanted Options: Are They Just Ads?

I recently came across a discussion online where someone was expressing frustration about a new, unwanted option appearing in their software or device interface. Their simple question, “How am I supposed to remove this new option? They are just ads,” really resonated with me. It highlights a growing problem: the blurring lines between genuine options and blatant advertising, especially on our mobile devices.

This got me thinking about the different ways unwanted “options” can manifest, and what we can do to regain control over our digital experiences. Let’s break down this issue and explore some potential solutions, focusing on how ad blocking and privacy tools can help.

The Annoying Influx of 'Options'

What exactly constitutes an unwanted “option”? It can take many forms:

• Pre-installed Apps: Many new phones come loaded with apps we never asked for, often referred to as bloatware. These apps take up storage space, can drain battery life, and sometimes even track our data.
• Promoted Content in System Interfaces: Some manufacturers and operating systems have started integrating promotional content directly into the user interface. Think suggested apps in your app drawer, or sponsored articles in your news feed. While not technically ads in the traditional sense, they serve the same purpose: to promote products or services.
• Unsolicited Notifications: We've all been bombarded with notifications from apps we barely use, often pushing us to try new features or make in-app purchases. These notifications can be incredibly disruptive and feel like a constant stream of advertising.
• Bundled Software: When installing new software on our computers, we're often presented with the option to install additional programs. These programs are frequently unwanted and can be difficult to remove.
• Aggressive Cross-Promotion: Apps within the same ecosystem may aggressively promote each other, flooding the user with suggestions to download related apps. This can clutter the interface and create a sense of being constantly marketed to.

The core problem is that these “options” often feel forced upon us. They’re not genuinely enhancing our experience; they’re primarily benefiting the companies pushing them. This is where ad blocking and privacy measures become crucial.

Are They Really Just Ads?

It's a valid question to ask if these unwanted options are just ads in disguise. In many cases, the answer is a resounding yes. They use the same tactics as traditional advertising: grabbing our attention, promoting products, and driving sales. However, there are some key differences:

• Integration: Unlike banner ads or pop-ups, these “options” are often deeply integrated into the operating system or app interface. This makes them harder to block and more difficult to ignore.
• Implied Endorsement: Because they're presented as part of the system, they carry an implied endorsement from the manufacturer or developer. This can make users more likely to trust them, even if they're essentially ads.
• Data Collection: Many of these “options” are accompanied by extensive data collection. The companies pushing them want to know which ones we click on, how long we spend looking at them, and what actions we take afterward. This data is used to refine their targeting and make their promotions even more effective.

So, while they might not always be labeled as ads, many of these unwanted options function as ads, collect data like ads, and should be treated as such.

Strategies for Removing (or Minimizing) the Intrusion

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: how can we remove these unwanted options and reclaim our mobile experience? Here are several strategies, ranging from simple settings tweaks to more advanced ad blocking techniques:

1. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps

This is the most obvious step, but it's often overlooked. Go through your app drawer and uninstall any apps you don't use or need. Pay particular attention to pre-installed apps, as these are often the biggest offenders. On Android, you may be able to disable system apps that can't be uninstalled, preventing them from running in the background or sending notifications.

2. Disable Notifications

Take control of your notification settings. For each app, decide whether you really need to receive notifications. Be ruthless! Turn off notifications for any app that sends you promotional messages or irrelevant alerts. On both iOS and Android, you can customize notification settings on a per-app basis.

3. Opt-Out of Personalized Advertising

Both iOS and Android offer options to limit ad tracking. These settings won't block all ads, but they will prevent advertisers from using your data to target you with personalized ads. Look for these settings in your device's privacy menu.

• iOS: Go to Settings > Privacy > Tracking and turn off “Allow Apps to Request to Track.”
• Android: Go to Settings > Google > Ads and enable “Opt out of Ads Personalization.”

4. Customize Your Home Screen

Organize your home screen to minimize distractions. Remove widgets and shortcuts that you don't use, and group apps into folders to declutter the interface. Consider using a custom launcher on Android to further customize your home screen and remove unwanted elements.

5. Use DNS-Based Ad Blocking (Our Recommendation)

As we often recommend, DNS-based ad blocking is a powerful way to block ads system-wide, without installing apps or browser extensions. By configuring your device to use a DNS server that blocks ad domains, you can prevent ads from loading in apps, browsers, and other parts of the system. This is my preferred method for most users because it is effective and unobtrusive.

• NextDNS: Offers highly customizable blocklists and detailed analytics.
• AdGuard DNS: Provides easy setup and good default blocklists.
• Quad9: Focuses on security and blocks malware domains.
• Cloudflare 1.1.1.1: Fast and privacy-focused (requires “1.1.1.1 for Families” for blocking).

Setting up DNS-based ad blocking is simple:

• iOS: Download a configuration profile from your chosen provider and install it in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
• Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Private DNS and enter the hostname from your chosen provider.

6. Utilize Browser Extensions and Apps

For more granular control, you can use browser extensions or apps specifically designed for ad blocking. These tools can block ads in specific browsers or apps, and often offer advanced features like custom filters and whitelisting.

• Browser Extensions: uBlock Origin (Firefox, Chrome), AdGuard (Safari, Chrome, Firefox).
• Local VPN Apps (Android): Blokada, AdGuard for Android.
• Safari Content Blockers (iOS): 1Blocker, AdGuard for Safari.

7. Consider a VPN-Based Ad Blocker

VPN-based ad blockers route all your traffic through a VPN server, which filters out ads before they reach your device. This can be effective for blocking ads in apps, but it can also use more battery and slow down your connection. AdGuard Pro is a popular VPN-based ad blocker.

8. Root Your Android Device (Advanced)

For advanced users, rooting your Android device provides even more control over the system. Rooting allows you to install custom ROMs, remove system apps, and use powerful ad blocking tools that require root access. However, rooting can void your warranty and potentially brick your device, so proceed with caution.

9. Choose Privacy-Focused Alternatives

Whenever possible, opt for privacy-focused alternatives to popular apps and services. For example, use Brave Browser instead of Chrome, or DuckDuckGo instead of Google Search. These alternatives are designed to protect your privacy and minimize tracking, which can reduce the amount of advertising you see.

The Ethics of Ad Blocking

It's important to acknowledge the ethical considerations surrounding ad blocking. Many websites and apps rely on advertising revenue to stay afloat. By blocking ads, we're potentially depriving them of income. However, the increasing intrusiveness and privacy violations of modern advertising have pushed many users to adopt ad blocking as a necessary measure.

A possible compromise is to selectively whitelist websites and apps that you want to support. This allows you to block ads on most sites while still supporting the content creators you value.

My Personal Approach

Personally, I rely heavily on DNS-based ad blocking combined with browser extensions. I use NextDNS for system-wide protection and uBlock Origin in Firefox for more granular control. I also make a point of disabling notifications for any app that sends me unsolicited promotional messages. This combination of techniques allows me to enjoy a relatively ad-free mobile experience without sacrificing too much battery life or performance.

Recommendations by Use Case (Sound Familiar?)

Let's tailor these solutions to specific needs:

"I just want these gone with minimum effort"

→ AdGuard DNS - Configure it once and forget about it. A simple change in settings is all it takes to make a difference.

"I want total control over what's blocked"

→ NextDNS - Customize blocklists to your exact preferences. Fine-tune your filtering for a personalized experience.

"I'm on a limited data plan"

→ DNS blocking (any) - Reduce data consumption by blocking ad-heavy content. Conserve your data allowance with a network-level solution.

"I prioritize privacy above all else"

→ NextDNS + Quad9 - Combine ad blocking with robust malware protection and encrypted DNS. Enhance your security while maintaining privacy.

"I need to block those relentless video platform ads"

→ Browser-based solutions - DNS blocking is ineffective against these, so use a browser extension. Employ a browser extension to specifically target video ads.

"I want integrated VPN protection"

→ Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 with WARP - Enjoy a fast VPN service along with basic protection features. Combine privacy and speed with an integrated VPN.

Paid or Free Ad Blocking? The Choice is Yours

The good news is that many effective ad-blocking solutions are available for free. Paid options often offer additional features like detailed analytics, support for multiple devices, and priority customer support. Consider your needs and budget when making your decision.

Free is sufficient if:

• You primarily want to block ads.
• You don't require detailed analytics.
• Your usage remains within the free tier limits (e.g., NextDNS's query limit).

Consider a paid option if:

• You desire comprehensive logs and analytics.
• You manage multiple devices.
• You need priority support.
• You wish to support the developers.

Final Thoughts

The original poster's frustration is understandable. Unwanted options that are essentially ads are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, by taking proactive steps to block ads, customize our devices, and choose privacy-focused alternatives, we can regain control over our mobile experiences and minimize the intrusion. Remember, you don't have to accept these unwanted options as a fact of life. With a little effort, you can create a more enjoyable and less intrusive digital environment.

Ready to reclaim your screen? Explore our setup guides for detailed, step-by-step instructions and start blocking those unwanted "options" today.