Observed Signal · Sep 14, 2026 · Technical Release · Source: t3n · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Fritz OS 8.40 adds DNS-based ad blocking for smart TVs
Fritzbox routers with the upcoming Fritz OS 8.40 update will allow users to block ads on their smart TVs using DNS filter lists. Currently in beta as a lab version, the feature lets users manually add filter lists to block ad-related domains at the router level, preventing ads from loading on smart TV home screens across all devices on the home network. This offers a simpler alternative to dedicated solutions like Pi-hole, which require a separate always-on device. Supported Fritzbox models include various fiber, DSL, cable, and 5G models. Users can manually install the beta firmware from AVM's website and configure custom filter lists via the router's web interface under 'Network Settings' -> 'DNS Filter'. The feature has been tested successfully with a Roku TV using the hagezi/dns-blocklists project on GitHub, and can also block ads on Fire OS, webOS, and Samsung TVs.
While this is a technical release from AVM (a major router manufacturer), it directly impacts consumers' ability to block ads on connected TV devices, potentially affecting CTV advertising reach. The feature is significant for the AdTech industry as it provides a new ad-blocking mechanism outside the browser environment.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Fritz OS 8.40 introduces DNS-based filter lists to block smart TV ads at the router level.
- The feature is currently in beta (Laborversion) and can be manually installed on supported Fritzbox models.
- Users can add custom filter lists, such as hagezi/dns-blocklists on GitHub, via 'Network Settings' -> 'DNS Filter'.
- The feature supports blocking ads on Roku, Fire OS, webOS, and Samsung TVs.
- Fritz OS 8.40 supports a range of fiber, DSL, cable, and 5G Fritzbox models.
Connected Companies & Entities
5 Entities mapped“Line: 'In unserem Test funktionierte die Roku-Liste ohne Probleme, um den großen Werbebanner auf dem Roku-Homescreen zu blockieren.'...”
“Line: 'Mit einem Smart-TV von Samsung hatten wir hingegen mit dieser Filterliste besseren Erfolg.'...”
“Line: '...DNS-Filterlisten für verschiedene Smart-TV-Betriebssysteme wie RokuOS, Amazons FireOS oder webOS von LG.'...”
“Line: 'Hier findest du externe Inhalte von TargetVideo GmbH, die unser redaktionelles Angebot auf t3n.de ergänzen.'...”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
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FritzOS 8.5 Adds DNS Ad Blocking for Smart TVs
AVM's Fritzbox routers are introducing DNS-based filtering in FritzOS 8.40 and 8.50, enabling users to block ads displayed on Smart TV home screens. This feature allows users to create or import filter lists (e.g., from hagezi/dns-blocklists) directly on the router, preventing the TV from fetching ad content from manufacturer domains. Initially, FritzOS 8.50 is available only for the Fritzbox 7690, while the beta version 8.40 supports a range of DSL, cable, fiber, and mobile models. The article provides step-by-step instructions for installing the beta and configuring DNS filter lists. This development empowers consumers to reduce unwanted advertising on their TVs without needing external hardware like a Raspberry Pi running Pi-hole, potentially impacting the ad-supported TV business model.
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