Chrome Browser App for Android May Get Extensions Support
In a move that could redefine mobile browsing, Google is reportedly working on introducing a version of its Chrome web browser for Android that supports extensions. This comes amidst the tech giant’s ongoing efforts to closely align Chrome OS with Android.
Google Chrome has consistently maintained its status as one of the most widely used web browsers across diverse operating systems and devices. However, its Android variant has remained somewhat restricted compared to its desktop counterparts, notably missing the feature of extensions.
Historically, Google opted not to equip its Chrome app for Android with extensions. While the official reasoning behind this decision remains ambiguous, there’s speculation surrounding potential concerns over ad blockers, which are readily available as extensions. Despite being a feature-rich and high-performing browser pre-installed on most Android devices, Chrome’s lack of extension support has been a notable gap.
Presently, users resort to third-party browsers, which are Chromium-based, to enjoy the functionality offered by extensions. Nevertheless, Google might be gearing up to bridge this gap by incorporating extension support into the official Chrome browser for Android in the foreseeable future.
Recent developments suggest Google is engaged in creating a newer version of Chrome for Android, which is tailored for “desktop” devices like Chromebooks. Earlier announcements this year revealed Google’s vision for Chrome OS to evolve to be more Android-like. This transition involves integrating significant components of the Android tech stack into Chrome OS, including the Android Linux kernel and respective frameworks.
Additionally, Google is focused on developing a unified bootloader compatible with Android, Chrome OS, and even Fuchsia. This strategic development emphasizes Google’s goal to harmonize Chrome builds across Android and Chrome OS, which currently differ mainly in device form factor.
The strongest indication of extension support is the introduction of what is referred to as “Desktop Android.” Officially named ‘Chrome for Android’, this version is expected to accommodate browser extensions. This revelation was further supported by a Google engineer’s confirmation of extension support for Desktop Android, as evidenced by Google’s active submission of patches for this project to the Chromium Gerrit.
Interestingly, Chrome builds for Desktop Android are designed to be compatible with devices running the Android operating system. While Google has not made a formal announcement regarding this, the groundwork appears set for a cohesive Chrome browser solution equipped with extension capabilities, adaptable across multiple device types. This strategic move aligns well with Google’s adoption of Manifest V3, promising to fortify Google’s ecosystem further.
With these advancements, Chrome browser users on Android could soon experience a more enriched browsing scenario, bringing the functionality and adaptability of desktop browsing to the palm of your hand.
