Chrome Extensions are handy and great features to have on your iOS devices (iPad and iPhones) but sadly, you can’t have them directly. Apple doesn’t allow it and Google can’t or is yet to make it happen. And we probably would not have credible reasons for this.
Do you have an iPad? Check How To Use Chrome Extensions On The Ipad!
The slightly good news is that, though you can’t install or download Chrome extensions on iOS devices, you can use them.
In the next section, we will explain how you can use the Chrome Remote Desktop app and extension to run Chrome extensions on mobile iOS devices.
How To Use Chrome Extensions on iOS
Chrome Remote Desktop app and extension were developed to enable users to access and continue browsing sessions on their personal computers remotely.
However, you can also use them to access Chrome extensions on mobile iOS devices.
Step 1: Install “Chrome Remote Desktop” On Your PC
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Open the Google Chrome Browser
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Go to remotedesktop.google.com/access and click the “Download” button.
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Click “Add To Chrome”
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Open the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install the App.
You can also play valorant on Chromebook using Chrome Remote Desktop.
Step 2: Turn On The Remote Access
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Click on the extension icon in your Chrome address bar.
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Click on “Turn On”.
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Enter a name for your computer.
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Enter a PIN (important to remember it)
Step 3: Download & Install “Chrome Remote Desktop” on iOS
Go to the App store, search for Chrome Remote Desktop app and install it.
Step 4: Open the iOS App & Sign-In
Use the same google account that you used on your computer.
Step 5: Click On The Name Of Your Computer To Connect To it
Doing this allows you to continue your computer browsing sessions on your iOS device anywhere. It also allows you to use Chrome extensions.
Step 6: Install Your Favorite Extension
Visit the Chrome Web store, download, and install your favorite extensions. You’re ready to use them on your iOS device.
Do you know you can use multiple monitors on Chrome Remote Desktop to display each screen on a different monitor?
Why Chrome Extensions Are Not on iOS
One may wonder why Chrome extensions are not on iOS especially since Safari extensions are now fully functional. Apple and Google might never let us know why this is so. However, we can deduce three reasons why that is so.
1. Security Issues
Apple is big on protecting the privacy of its customers. Most Chrome extensions are built by third-party agents and Chrome can’t possibly control all they do. This is a security risk Apple already frowns at.
2. Revenue Sharing Risks
Chrome extensions, if allowed, will bypass Apple’s App store revenue system. Users only need to install Chrome and get to use extensions (which can be likened to a sub-app).
Apple has no control over and therefore can charge the developers when users make purchases. This revenue source is a big part of Apple’s business and they won’t just let it slide.
3. Less Control Over Users
Somehow, even though they like to say they don’t, Apple controls the kind of apps its users have access to. Allowing Chrome extensions is like opening a backdoor they won’t be able to oversee. They may cite privacy issues but it is just a way to make up for the gatekeeping of user freedom.
You should note that both companies in question, Apple and Google, haven’t openly given a reason why Chrome extensions are on iOS. The ones you just read are speculations and based on the known history of the companies. Till they give an official statement, we will only keep guessing.
What Extensions Can I Install on My iOS?
You can install Safari extensions on your iOS, and extensions that are on the App store. Some developers opt to make their extensions compatible with iOS and go through the hassle of putting them on the app store.
To check the availability of your favorite extension, you can go to the app store and check. Currently, there are just a few listed on the App Store and there are no green signals for a “chrome Extensions Outbreak” on the app store.
Some Available Extensions For iOS
Enjoy Chrome Extensions on iOS
You just learned how to use chrome extensions on iOS and some assumptions about why that wasn’t directly possible. Now, it is up to you to do as you, please. And one last note: enjoy your Chrome extensions on iOS!
