I tried NextDNS on Android, and it’s now my favorite way to block ads on my phone

I recently wrote an article explaining why I prefer using a dedicated ad-blocking app on Android over the Private DNS feature. It seems many readers weren't too happy with my conclusion. In fact, in a survey we ran alongside that piece, over 65% of respondents claimed that they use Private DNS to block ads on their phones. I argued that a standalone app like Blokada gives me more immediate control over ad blocking on my device. However, one alternative that frequently appeared in the comments was NextDNS.

Intrigued by the recommendations, I decided to give NextDNS a try on my Android phone. The setup was surprisingly simple, and I was up and running in just a few minutes. NextDNS is a Private DNS service that blocks ads and malicious domains, but it also offers a user-friendly interface and additional features that make it stand out from other solutions.

To start using NextDNS on Android, I first downloaded the app from the Google Play Store. The installation process was straightforward, and the app guided me through setting up my account and connecting to the service. One of the key advantages of NextDNS is its intuitive setup. Unlike some Private DNS services that require manual configuration, NextDNS offers a seamless integration with Android's system settings. This means that once the app is installed, it automatically configures the necessary settings to block ads and malicious content.

After setting up NextDNS, I noticed an immediate improvement in my browsing experience. Pages that previously had intrusive ads now loaded cleanly, without any distractions. The app also provided detailed statistics on the number of ads blocked, which was a nice touch. Additionally, NextDNS offers a feature called "Ad Block Radar," which detects and blocks ads in real-time as they attempt to load. This added layer of protection made me feel more secure while browsing.

One of the reasons NextDNS is so popular among Android users is its compatibility with various browsers and apps. Unlike some ad-blocking solutions that only work with specific browsers, NextDNS blocks ads across all apps and browsers on my device. This means that whether I'm using Chrome, Firefox, or even the default Android browser, I'm protected from ads everywhere.

Another feature that impressed me was NextDNS's "Family Mode." This setting allows me to create a family profile that blocks explicit content and safeguards my device from inappropriate websites. Family Mode is particularly useful for parents who want to ensure their children's online safety. The app also offers a "Guest Mode" that provides temporary access to the device with ad-blocking enabled, making it ideal for visitors or family members who don't have their own ad-blocking setup.

Despite my initial reservations about Private DNS solutions, NextDNS has proven to be a reliable and effective way to block ads on my Android phone. Its simple setup, comprehensive ad-blocking capabilities, and additional features like Family Mode make it a standout option among ad-blocking apps. While I still prefer dedicated ad-blocking apps for more granular control, NextDNS has become my go-to solution for a hassle-free and effective ad-blocking experience on my phone.

In conclusion, NextDNS offers a compelling alternative to traditional ad-blocking apps on Android. Its ease of use, broad compatibility, and robust features make it a popular choice among users who want to block ads without the hassle of manual configuration. Although I still appreciate the control offered by standalone apps, NextDNS has won me over with its simplicity and effectiveness. For those looking for a seamless way to block ads on their Android devices, NextDNS is definitely worth considering.