A recent development indicates that a new build of the Chrome browser is on the horizon, bringing the long-anticipated support for extensions to Android devices, particularly those with larger screens such as tablets, foldable phones, and Chromebooks.
According to a report by Android Central, Google is actively working on a special version of Chrome designed to enhance the web browsing experience on larger devices. This new build aims to replicate the functionality users enjoy on the desktop version of Chrome, offering a significant upgrade to how users interact with the browser on their Android devices.
Tech expert Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority has noted that recent test builds of this ‘desktop-class’ Chrome for Android have begun allowing the installation and operation of extensions. Users can install extensions by simply dragging and dropping .crx files into the chrome://extensions management page. Rahman has tested this feature with popular extensions like uBlock Origin and Dark Reader, both of which function properly in this version, showcasing the browser’s technical capability for extension support.
This iteration of Chrome is specifically targeted at large-screen Android devices, which includes not only tablets and foldable phones but also Chromebooks and other Android-based computers. The move is particularly relevant as Chrome OS is reported to be winding down, necessitating a more robust browser solution for the hardware reliant on it.
However, it’s important to note that this extension support is still in its early stages. Rahman points out several limitations, including a lack of an individual settings page for extensions and the absence of a user-friendly toolbar button for quick management and interaction.
Additionally, it appears unlikely that this extension-supporting version of Chrome will be available for standard Android phones with smaller screens. Google has historically refrained from extending this feature to mobile Chrome, unlike competitors such as Firefox or Microsoft Edge. This decision is driven by concerns surrounding performance, security, and the overall user experience on devices with limited screen real estate.
Nevertheless, the progress towards integrating Chrome extension support for large-screen Android devices signals Google’s commitment to enhancing the browsing experience, potentially offering users a more powerful and versatile interface similar to what they would find on desktop platforms.
