Chrome extensions are useful for adding extra features to a browser. They can help with everything from blocking unwanted content and managing passwords to improving productivity.
If you’ve tried installing a Chrome extension on your Android phone, though, you may have noticed that things don’t work the same way as they do on a computer.
Chrome for Android does not currently support Chrome extensions directly.
This means you can’t open the Chrome Web Store on your phone and install an extension into the regular Chrome Android app. However, there are still a few ways to get similar functionality on your phone.
Can You Install Chrome Extensions on Android Chrome?
No. The standard Chrome app for Android doesn’t currently have support for Chrome extensions.
You may still be able to open an extension’s page in the Chrome Web Store, but you won’t get the normal desktop installation experience.
You may also see an Add to Desktop button. This doesn’t install the extension on your Android phone. Instead, it sends the extension to Chrome on your computer.
Turning on Desktop site in Chrome doesn’t solve the problem either. It only changes how websites are displayed.
If you specifically need extensions on your phone, you’ll need to use another option.
Method 1: Use a Browser That Supports Extensions
Some Android browsers provide support for compatible Chrome extensions. Yandex Browser is one example.
The exact extension experience can vary, and not every desktop Chrome extension will work properly on a mobile device.
Steps to install an extension
- Install Yandex Browser from Google Play.
- Open the browser and complete the initial setup.
- Open the browser menu.
- Find the Extensions section.
- Choose the option to find or add extensions.
- Search for the extension you want.
- Open its page and follow the installation instructions.
- Return to the Extensions section and make sure it is enabled.
- Open a website where you want to use the extension and test it.
The menu layout may change with future browser updates, so the wording or location of an option may be slightly different.
Also, don’t assume that every Chrome extension will work on a phone. Some extensions depend on desktop-only features and may not function correctly.
Method 2: Use Firefox for Android
If you don’t specifically need a Chrome extension, Firefox is another option.
Firefox for Android supports a selection of add-ons designed for mobile. The available add-ons aren’t identical to Chrome’s desktop extensions, but you may find an alternative that does what you need.
Steps to install a Firefox add-on
- Install Firefox from Google Play.
- Open Firefox.
- Tap the three-dot menu.
- Select Add-ons.
- Browse the available add-ons.
- Select the one you want.
- Tap the option to add or install it.
- Review the permissions.
- Confirm the installation.
- Return to Firefox and test the add-on.
This is a better approach if you simply need a particular browser feature rather than a specific Chrome extension.
Method 3: Look for an Android App
Before switching browsers, check whether the extension’s developer offers an Android app.
Many extensions are connected to services that already have dedicated mobile applications. A password manager, VPN, note-taking tool, shopping service, or productivity platform may offer an Android app that provides most or all of the same features.
How to find the app
- Find the name of the Chrome extension.
- Search for the developer or company on Google Play.
- Check whether it has an official Android app.
- Make sure the developer name matches.
- Read recent reviews.
- Install the official app if it provides the feature you need.
For many users, an Android app will be easier and more reliable than trying to run a desktop extension through a mobile browser.
What Happened to Kiwi Browser?
Older guides often recommend Kiwi Browser as a way to run Chrome extensions on Android.
Kiwi became popular because it supported many Chrome extensions, but its development has ended. Because it is no longer actively maintained, I wouldn’t recommend installing an old Kiwi APK just to get extensions working.
Using an outdated browser can also create unnecessary security risks, particularly if you use your phone for banking, shopping, passwords, or other sensitive activities.
Can Desktop Site Mode Install Extensions?
No.
You can try it, but it won’t add extension support to Chrome for Android.
Here’s what happens:
- Open Chrome on Android.
- Visit the Chrome Web Store.
- Tap the three-dot menu.
- Turn on Desktop site.
- Open an extension’s page.
You may see an Add to Desktop button, but the extension is intended for Chrome on a computer. It won’t be installed into your Android Chrome browser.
Are Chrome Extensions Safe?
Extensions can be useful, but you should check their permissions before installing them.
Depending on the permissions they receive, an extension may be able to access information on websites you visit.
Before installing one:
- Check the developer.
- Read the requested permissions.
- Look at recent reviews.
- Check when it was last updated.
- Avoid extensions from unknown sources.
- Don’t install modified APKs or extension files from random websites.
If an extension asks for access that doesn’t make sense for what it does, consider finding another one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Chrome extensions directly on Android?
No. The standard Chrome Android app doesn’t currently support Chrome extensions.
Does Desktop site mode enable extensions?
No. It only changes the way websites are displayed.
Can Chrome extensions work in other Android browsers?
Some Android browsers support compatible Chrome extensions, but compatibility varies. A desktop extension may not work properly on a phone.
Is Kiwi Browser still recommended?
No. Kiwi was a popular option in the past, but it is no longer actively maintained.
What’s the easiest alternative?
If you only need a particular feature, look for an official Android app from the extension’s developer. Otherwise, use a browser that currently supports extensions or Firefox’s supported Android add-ons.
