Microsoft’s new Edge browser built on Chromium is now available. But, by default, you can only install a small number of Microsoft-approved extensions. Here’s how to install extensions from the Chrome Web Store in the new Edge.
For the New Chromium-Based Edge Only
This only works in the new Edge browser that dumps Microsoft’s old rendering engine in favor of Chromium, which forms the basis for Google Chrome. Chrome gets better battery life and the new Edge gets Chrome extensions. Microsoft hosts some Edge-specific extensions, but nowhere near as many of them as Google offers. It’s growing, but compared to the Chome Web Store it’s pretty small.
So, if you’re using the new Edge and want more browser extensions, you can install them from the Chrome Web Store.
To install Chrome extensions, all you need to do is flip a switch and browse to the online store. But you should be aware of a couple of warnings from Microsoft: If an extension relies on Google Account functionality to sign in or sync, the extension may not work in Edge. Also, if the extension relies on companion software on the PC, the extension may not work even if you installed the software.
How to Install Chrome Extensions in Edge
Installing Chrome Extensions on Edge is a straight forward affair. First, click the three horizontal dots in the upper right corner of the browser to open the menu.
Then, click “Extensions” in the menu.
Enable the “Allow extensions from other stores” switch in the lower left-hand corner of the Extensions page that appears.
Microsoft will warn you that it hasn’t verified the extensions in the Chrome Web Store or anywhere else online. Click “Allow” to continue.
Now, browse to the Chrome Web Store and find an extension you’d like to install. All you have to do is click “Add to Chrome.”
Click “Add Extension” in the confirmation dialog—just like if you were installing the extension in Chrome.
Remember that any extensions you install from the Chrome Web Store weren’t tested for the Edge browser. You may experience bugs or other breakages. It may be wise to install one extension at a time and verify you aren’t experiencing any problems before moving to the next extension.
