Microsoft Edge on Android has allowed some extensions for a while, but its capabilities have been limited. Recently, reports surfaced that Edge is in the process of testing a mobile extension web store, taking a significant leap by integrating extensions from the desktop version. However, it’s crucial to note that Microsoft has indicated potential instability with these Windows 11 extensions on mobile devices.
The information was first shared on Reddit and subsequently analyzed by Windows Latest. The latest rollout within the Canary channel of Edge enables users to experiment with an expanded range of desktop extensions on their Android devices, where such features were previously restricted.
The Current State of the Microsoft Edge Extensions Page
Presently, Edge for mobile lacks a comprehensive extensions store. Instead, users encounter a lengthy list featuring popular available extensions, devoid of any filtering or search functionality. This will soon undergo transformation, enabling access to desktop extensions.
Fortunately, Microsoft is in the midst of testing a new enhancements that includes a search bar for the extensions page. Although currently disabled, it can be activated through the Edge://flags menu in the Canary build. Simply enable the Android Extension Search flag and restart your browser.
Exploring Desktop Extensions in Microsoft Edge for Android
This search functionality will pave the way for users to access desktop extensions. For instance, I typically use the Grammarly extension on my desktop, which wasn’t previously available on mobile. By navigating to the extensions page on Edge for Android, I utilized the search bar to locate Grammarly.
To my surprise, not only did Grammarly appear, but a multitude of other extensions related to grammar also surfaced in the results. Upon selecting Grammarly, I was notified that this particular extension had not been optimized for mobile usage, highlighting the possible issues that may ensue. However, undeterred, I proceeded to click the “Get” button.
In just moments, the desktop version of Grammarly was successfully installed and listed on the Extensions page. I tested it out on a random online text editor and was pleased to see the grammar suggestions displayed, confirming its functionality.
I also experimented with several other desktop extensions, most of which operated without any significant issues. However, it’s crucial to remember that these extensions are not tailored for mobile environments. To evaluate performance, I compared them with extensions designed specifically for mobile use, like Keepa.
After integrating Keepa, I browsed Amazon for a water purifier. Keepa graphically displays the price history of products, allowing users to discern price fluctuations effectively prior to sales. Notably, the functionality mirrored that of the desktop experience; the graphs loaded seamlessly as I scrolled.
Nevertheless, the “unverified” badge indicates that not all features may work consistently on mobile devices. In our tests, both Keepa (mobile-optimized) and Grammarly (desktop-optimized) functioned without major drawbacks.
Microsoft is keenly aware that it requires support from developers to ensure the compatibility and optimization of these extensions, a process that will likely take some time. Their recent push to integrate desktop extensions into the mobile environment is a step towards achieving this goal, currently being trialed in Edge Canary but expected to become available in the stable version soon.
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