Microsoft Edge browser seems to be gearing up to introduce extension functionality to its Android version, potentially giving it a competitive edge against its primary rival, Google Chrome. Recent data from Similarweb reveals that Google Chrome dominates the Android browser landscape, holding a substantial 58% market share, while Edge currently occupies a smaller slice of the market.
The discovery of the extension feature was made by Lance Adams, also known as 'Leopeva64' on X (formerly Twitter), a recognized expert in tracking Microsoft Edge developments for Android, as reported by XDA Developers. Adams noted that the extension support for Microsoft Edge on Android is presently available on the Canary build. Users can find a toggle for extensions in the browser's flags and, upon configuring the settings, can download Chrome-based extensions, mirroring the functionality of the desktop version.
Interestingly, Adams identified that certain extensions like uBlock Origin, Global Speed, and Dark Reader are already visible on the Edge Extensions Beta page, hinting at a growing collection of compatible extensions.
A 9to5Google report highlighted that although Google Chrome has not officially confirmed plans for bringing extensions to its mobile browser, the fact that both Chrome and Edge utilize the Chromium technology implies that progress made by Edge could influence Chrome in the same direction. Another Chromium-based browser, Kiwi, already allows mobile users to download extensions while maintaining a Chrome-like interface on mobile devices.
As for the anticipated availability of Edge with extensions for all users, a 9to5Google report suggests that the feature is in its early stages and currently hidden behind a flag in Edge version 123. The Edge beta version, incorporating extension support, is expected to reach the beta channel in February, with a stable release potentially by the end of March at the earliest. Exciting times lie ahead for users keen on exploring the enhanced capabilities that extensions may bring to their mobile browsing experience.
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