Chrome extensions are powerful tools that enhance the functionality of your browser, whether it’s for blocking ads, managing passwords, or improving productivity. While using them on a desktop is easy, many Android users wonder if they can get the same experience on their smartphones. The short answer is yes, but not in the way you might think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Chrome extensions on Android devices and what you need to know before getting started.
The official Google Chrome browser for Android doesn’t support extensions. This limitation exists mainly because mobile browsers are built with efficiency and speed in mind. Adding extensions could potentially slow down performance or cause compatibility issues on mobile platforms.
However, the need for certain extensions like ad blockers, dark mode tools, or productivity plugins has led developers to create alternate browsers that offer Chrome extension support for Android. So, while you can’t use extensions directly on mobile Chrome, there are ways around it.
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If you’re determined to use Chrome extensions on Android, the easiest way is to install a different browser that supports them. Two of the most popular ones are:
Kiwi Browser is a Chromium-based browser (the same engine that powers Chrome), and it supports the installation of most Chrome extensions. It has a clean interface, ad blocker built-in, and offers excellent performance.
Yandex also supports extensions, but it’s heavier and more geared toward Russian users. While functional, it’s not as user-friendly as Kiwi, making it the second choice for most people.
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If you’ve decided to go with Kiwi (highly recommended), here’s how to install and manage Chrome extensions on your Android device:
Head over to the Google Play Store and search for "Kiwi Browser". Install it like any other app.
Once installed, launch Kiwi and go to the Chrome Web Store by typing: