A small recipe to know how to make it yourself google chrome extension.
I use a lot of Google Chrome extensions to make my work easier and have fun. In fact, it’s quite interesting how effectively they work. Also check if you have the latest extensions. Chrome Web Store sometimes.
But have you ever wondered what exactly Chrome extensions are and how they are developed? I wondered the same thing and did a Google search just like you. I found it to be very simple and a combination of the following: HTML, CSSand JavaScript. So this is simply adding the following to your web application: manifest.json Creating the file converts your web application into a Chrome extension.
As mentioned above, a Chrome extension is a combination of an HTML web page and a manifest file. Let’s discuss them one by one.
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript.
Developing your first extension requires basic knowledge of web development.
HTML: First, use HTML to create the structure of your extension’s popup or options page. This is the user interface that your extension interacts with.
CSS: Use CSS to style your extension to make it visually appealing and easy to use.
JavaScript: Write JavaScript code to add functionality to your extension. You can use JavaScript to interact with web pages and manipulate data. - Manifest file:
Instead of a normal boring blog, let me explain it in an interesting way.
Ah…!!! OK, let’s consider the theme of space. We are now a great power in space exploration. chandrayan 3🚀🎉.
A blueprint for your extension adventure!
Imagine your Chrome extension as a spaceship about to embark on an intergalactic journey. What’s the first thing you need before embarking on the vast web? A well-planned flight plan! In the world of Chrome extensions, that’s the manifest file. Usually a JSON file.
manifest version: This is like choosing a spaceship model. In the ever-evolving world of Chrome extensions, Manifest version 3 is a shiny new model. But technology never stands still, so don’t forget to check for new manifest versions.
name and version: Your spaceship needs a cool name and version number that tells the world that you’re constantly improving. think “Vikram Aditya 2.0“” instead of “GenericBrowserAddOn”.
authority: Just as spaceships need permission to enter various star systems, extensions also need permission to access certain parts of the web. Be respectful and only ask for permission you really need. It’s like asking politely before entering someone’s home.
icon: Every spaceship needs an emblem, right? Giving your extension an icon makes it instantly recognizable in the vast world of Chrome. Different sizes for each spacecraft. Such as having both a mission patch and a flag on your ship.
Pop-up and options pages: These are like the cockpit and control panel of a spaceship. Specifies which HTML file will serve as the spacecraft’s command center.
background script: Some tasks are best handled in the background. Background scripts are like the ship’s AI, working tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly.
content script: These are your “away team”. They jump into his web page and interact. Think of them as extension explorers, boldly going where no extension has gone before.
Browser actions and page actions: If your extension needs Chrome toolbar or context menu buttons or gadgets, bring them to life here. A symbolic button that attracts attention!
host privileges: When communicating with other galaxies (websites or APIs), list the required permissions. It’s like a diplomatic clearance for a spaceship.
Optional permissions: These are the kind of perks we offer to our passengers. Users can choose to enable or disable them, giving them more control over their extension experience.
Update URL: Keep your spaceship up to date by specifying where you can find the latest improvements. Think of it as your extension’s mission control center, ensuring you’re always ready for your next adventure.
Validating the manifest: Just before liftoff, have your manifest file reviewed with the Chrome Extension Manifest Validator tool. It’s like a final systems check before the spaceship roars into life.
The manifest file is your guiding star on this exciting journey through the world of Chrome extensions. This is more than just a document. This is the blueprint for an epic adventure in extensions in the ever-expanding world of the web. So, use the manifest file as your reliable guide to start writing Chrome extensions and prepare for your cosmic adventures. 🚀✨
An example manifest file is attached below.
How to test your extension locally:
Open Chrome and navigate to chrome://extensions/
To enable developer modeClick , then click .Load it unpacked.” Select a directory for your extension. This allows you to thoroughly test your extension before publishing.
Once your expanded spacecraft is ready, all you need to do is launch it. Let’s see how to deploy the extension.
How to publish a Chrome extension
Chrome extensions can be published in: Chrome Web Store It’s like a Play Store for extensions. The first thing you need is a developer account. If you don’t have one, go to and create one. Chrome Web Store Developer Dashboard Then, pay a one-time registration fee ($5).
Next, log in to the Chrome Web Store developer dashboard using your developer account. Click the Add New Item button in the right corner of the Items section of your dashboard. Next, you need to upload the expansion file in zip format. Here’s how:
Package your extension.
- Organize all extension files such as manifest files, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and icons into one directory.
- Create a ZIP file containing all these files. This ZIP file will be uploaded to the Chrome Web Store.
Then upload what you created above zip Add files to the file drop zone that appears when you click Add new item.Then you have to fill Extension details.
You must provide the following details:
- Add a detailed description of your extension.
- Upload a screenshot or image to showcase your extension.
- Set the extension’s visibility (public or private).
- Select the extension category and language.
Finally, review all the information you provided, make sure it’s accurate, and click .Release” button. Once published, it will take 24 hours for Google to review it. You will receive an email whether it passes or fails the review. If it fails, our review team will also email you the reason for the failure. .
from me personal experience We will give you tips on how to pass the review.
- Test your extension extensively. Therefore, it is free of bugs such as Content Security Policy (CSP) errors and works in all environments.
- Minimize privileges: Request only the permissions absolutely necessary for your extension’s functionality. By minimizing privileges, your extension is less likely to be rejected during review.
- Use clear and non-deceptive explanations: Create a clear and concise description that accurately describes the extension’s functionality. Avoid misleading words and exaggerations.
- Use high quality icons and screenshots. Icons and screenshots are the first things users see. Make sure it’s high resolution, clear, and accurately represents your extension number.
- Please review our policies thoroughly. Make sure your extension complies with these policies to avoid potential rejections.
Share some of your favorite extensions
There are many others. If you need more useful extensions, please let us know. Create a new blog with all full extensions. Please comment your favorite.
In summary, creating and deploying Chrome extensions is a rewarding process that requires careful planning and compliance with Google’s policies. From concept to implementation, follow best practices, minimize privileges, prioritize user privacy, and be patient during the review process. By doing so, you can share your extension with users around the world and contribute to the Chrome extension ecosystem.
Have fun developing!
thank you!