Install & Run Chrome Apps Extensions on Android

You cannot install Chrome apps or extensions on the Android version of Chrome. Android Chrome only supports a small set of built-in extensions, but you can run many Chrome extensions on Android using other browsers like Kiwi Browser, Yandex Browser, or Firefox for Android with its own add-on system. This article explains exactly what works, what doesn’t, and how to get extension-like functionality on your phone or tablet.

Why Chrome on Android Doesn’t Support Extensions

Google deliberately keeps the Android version of Chrome separate from the desktop version. Desktop Chrome extensions are built with web technologies (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript) and rely on a set of APIs that Google has not enabled on Android. The mobile browser is designed to be lightweight, battery-efficient, and secure, and extensions are seen as a potential source of performance and security risks. Additionally, Google’s own extension store, the Chrome Web Store, is not accessible from Android Chrome—trying to open it simply shows a message that extensions aren’t supported on this platform.

This limitation has been in place since Chrome for Android first launched, and there is no official timeline for changing it. Google has instead pushed developers to create Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and to build features directly into the browser, such as built-in ad blocking in some regions.

What You Can Do in Chrome for Android

While you can’t install full extensions, Chrome for Android does include a few built-in features that cover some common extension use cases:

Translate: Built-in Google Translate for foreign-language pages.
Dark mode: A browser-level dark theme for all websites, accessible in settings.
Reader mode: A simplified, distraction-free reading view (available by tapping the reader icon in the address bar when supported).
Site settings: Per-site permissions for camera, microphone, location, and notifications.
Password manager: Google Password Manager built into the browser.

These features cover the basics, but they don’t replace the flexibility of extensions like uBlock Origin, Grammarly, or LastPass.

Best Alternative: Kiwi Browser

Kiwi Browser is a Chromium-based browser available on the Google Play Store that supports Chrome extensions directly. It’s the most straightforward way to get desktop-style extensions on Android. Here’s how it works:

Install Kiwi Browser from the Play Store.
Open Kiwi and go to the Chrome Web Store (chrome.google.com/webstore).
Browse or search for an extension, then tap “Add to Chrome.”
Confirm the installation when prompted.
Access your installed extensions via the three-dot menu (usually under “Extensions”).

Kiwi is built on the same Chromium engine as Chrome, so most extensions work without modification. However, not every extension is compatible—some rely on desktop-only APIs or expect a larger screen. In practice, popular extensions like uBlock Origin, Dark Reader, and Tampermonkey work well.

One caveat: Kiwi Browser is developed by a small team, not Google, and it may not receive updates as frequently as Chrome. It also has a smaller user base, so security patches may lag. Use it with caution for sensitive activities like banking.

Firefox for Android and Its Add-Ons

Firefox for Android takes a different approach. It supports a curated list of add-ons (Mozilla’s term for extensions) that are specifically optimized for mobile. You can install them from the Firefox Add-ons page within the browser:

Install Firefox for Android.
Tap the three-dot menu and select “Add-ons.”
Browse the list and tap “Add” on any add-on you want.
Confirm the installation.

The selection is limited compared to the desktop Firefox library, but it includes essential tools like uBlock Origin, Dark Reader, Privacy Badger, and NoScript. Firefox also allows you to install add-ons from the desktop Firefox Add-ons site, but only those that are marked as compatible with Android. The advantage of Firefox is that it’s a major browser with regular security updates, so you get extension support without the risk of using a less-maintained browser.

Other Options: Yandex and Samsung Internet

Yandex Browser, another Chromium-based browser, also supports Chrome extensions. It has a built-in catalog of extensions that work on Android, and you can also install from the Chrome Web Store. However, Yandex has been criticized for privacy concerns, so it’s not the best choice if you’re privacy-conscious.

Samsung Internet, the default browser on many Samsung phones, supports a limited set of extensions (called “add-ons”) through the Samsung Internet Add-ons store. The selection is small and focuses on ad blockers and translation tools. It’s a decent option if you want a lightweight solution without installing a third-party browser, but it won’t give you the full extension catalog.

How to Choose the Right Browser for Extensions

When deciding which browser to use for extensions on Android, consider these factors:

Extension compatibility: Kiwi and Yandex support the most Chrome extensions; Firefox supports fewer but more curated add-ons.
Security: Firefox is the most secure option because it’s maintained by a major organization. Kiwi and Yandex are smaller projects, so they carry more risk.
Performance: Kiwi is generally fast, but extensions can slow it down. Firefox is also performant.
Privacy: Firefox and Kiwi (with extensions like uBlock Origin) offer better privacy than Chrome. Yandex is known for data collection, so avoid it if privacy is a priority.

For most people, Firefox for Android is the best balance of security and functionality. If you absolutely need a specific Chrome extension that isn’t available on Firefox, Kiwi is the next best bet.

Common Problems and Workarounds

Even with Kiwi or Firefox, you may run into issues:

Extension not working: Some extensions are designed for desktop screens and may not respond well to touch input. Try switching to desktop mode in the browser’s settings.
Extension not showing up: After installing, you may need to refresh the page or restart the browser. In Kiwi, check the “Extensions” menu to enable it.
Compatibility issues: If an extension fails to install, it likely uses APIs not available on mobile. There’s no workaround—you’ll need to find an alternative.
Performance hit: Running multiple extensions can slow down your browser. Disable ones you don’t use regularly.

Another common misconception is that you can “sideload” Chrome extensions into Chrome for Android by enabling developer mode. This is not possible—Chrome for Android simply doesn’t have the extension system built in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install Chrome extensions on Samsung Internet?

Yes, but only a limited set of add-ons available through the Samsung Internet Add-ons store. These include ad blockers and some utility extensions, but you cannot install arbitrary Chrome extensions from the Chrome Web Store.

Is it safe to use Kiwi Browser?

Kiwi is generally safe for everyday browsing, but it’s not maintained by a large organization, so security updates may be slower. Avoid using it for sensitive transactions like online banking, and keep your extensions to trusted sources.

Can I use uBlock Origin on Android?

Yes, uBlock Origin is available on Firefox for Android and Kiwi Browser. It’s one of the most popular extensions and works well on mobile browsers.

Why doesn’t Google just add extension support to Chrome for Android?

Google has not officially explained, but it’s likely due to performance, security, and the push toward PWAs. Extensions can consume memory and battery, and they can introduce security vulnerabilities. Google prefers to integrate features natively.

Will Chrome extensions ever come to Android?

There’s no official announcement. Some rumors suggest Google might add limited extension support in the future, but nothing is confirmed. For now, the alternatives listed above are your best bet.

Can I run Chrome extensions on a tablet?

Yes, the same limitations apply to tablets. Chrome for Android on a tablet does not support extensions, but you can use Kiwi or Firefox on a tablet just as you would on a phone.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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