Microsoft is testing the Android Extension for browsers.

We have all been using Android’s default browser, which has been groomed for a long time. After improving the desktop version, which has been pending for a long time, it’s now time for some improvements on Android. Microsoft is working on adding extension support to Microsoft Edge on Android, which makes a significant difference between Microsoft Edge on Android and Google Chrome.

Among the different web browsers on Android, Microsoft Edge has a tight grip on its fan base. All credit goes to the vibrant capabilities of this browser. Edge offers basic browsing features and integrates well with the Microsoft ecosystem. However, it lacks customization and functionality but is popularised by extensions from competitors like Chrome.

As we know, extensions play a vital role in elevating the user experience in terms of productivity. With this, we get a medium to add specific features like grammar checking, password management, and so on. Focusing on that, Microsoft Edge has placed more emphasis on extensions. But the Android app has no extension facility; however, a recent update evidences new support.

What are extensions?

You will be glad to know that Microsoft Edge has made a significant move by adding extension support to Android. However, at present, the feature is in the beta phase but is soon likely to be public. Apart from that, you should know what extensions are and why Microsoft feels the need for an Android app. In simple terms, extensions are mini apps that live inside your browser.

With these tiny apps (extensions), you can get multiple advantages, like installing ad blocker extensions to clutter up all the annoying ads with just a tap. Meanwhile, whatever functionality you want, you just add it with an extension touch. And without extensions on Android, Edge users miss out on this level of customization and convenience. They can’t tailor their browsing experience or access the specific tools they might rely on in other browsers.

Microsoft Brings Extensions to Edge for Android

Concerning different sources, it was found that Microsoft Edge is set to unleash the power of extensions for Android users. However, the exact launch date is yet to be officially announced, but the feature is rolling out in beta behind Edge version 123. Notably, public availability is expected in late February, and the stable version will be on March 24. Meanwhile, extension support for the Edge Android app is around the corner.

Talking about extension support, at present, as evident, ad blockers, password managers, grammar checkers, shopping assistants, language translators, and video downloaders are some extensions supported. Alongside, you will be hands-on with a few developer tools, like web inspectors, code editors, debugging tools, and other useful resources. Touching a point about this addition, your mobile browsing experience would be transformed with extensions.

Benefits of Using Extensions on the Edge for Android

With the addition of extension support, the entire user base will benefit. After all, extensions add specific functionality and provide new ways to browse experiences. See, talking about benefits is not within the scope of a specific deal. Extension support for the Edge Android app has an impact on varying sections of society. These are students, professionals, and casual users. So, as we observe on that basis, here are the benefits that a potential user gets:

• Ease of research with side-loaded tools like Grammar Checker, Translator, or something
• Boost productivity with management tools, time trackers, and so on.
• Simplify social media with streamlined feeds.
• Smart shopping with price comparison and other best decision-making tools
• Stay organized with a bookmark and note-taking extension.
• Ad blockers and coupon finders help you manage your budget.

Here’s how to use the extension in Microsoft Edge for Android:

The feature is currently hidden and has been made available in Microsoft Edge Canary. Also, there are a limited number of extensions available at this time. If you want to test the extension on Microsoft, here are the instructions:

• First, install the Edge Canary browser from the Google Play Store.
• Open the app and visit edge://flags. This shows a lot of experimental options; search for an Android extension.
• Enable the Android extension flag, and then restart.

• After restarting, you will see at the bottom, tap on the hamburger menu (three lines) appearing in the lower right-hand corner of the Edge, then scroll down to select ‘extension’. This appears to be a puzzle-like icon.
• Then choose the ‘manage extension’ option and simply download and install the extension that you would like to use.

This feature doesn’t seem to be coming very soon because it’s still in the experimental phase with flags. After some time, when Microsoft has enough confidence to put the Android extension on Edge Canary without needing to enable this flag, we can expect it to arrive on Edge Dev and Stable for everyone to use.

This feature will help Microsoft compete against Android’s default browser, which is Chrome. Despite being a great browser on Windows, it had a footnote when it came to mobile use. Currently, there are only three extensions that you can try: Dark Reader, UBlock Origin, and Global Speed. When I tested them, I can certainly say that they worked as they were supposed to.

At this moment, there are only a few browsers that support extensions, including popular mobile browsers like Firefox and Samsung Internet. However, it is still not clear how many extensions will be supported on mobile and how they will function.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, here you get the significant points regarding the addition of extensions to Edge for Android, highlighting the positive impact this enhancement brings to the user experience. The introduction of extensions expands the functionality and customization options for Edge users, allowing them to tailor their browsing experience to their specific needs. We strongly encourage users to explore Edge with extensions when available, as this not only enhances productivity but also provides a more personalized and efficient browsing environment. So below, be ready for the new experience.

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