Chrome Extensions: Navigating the Manifest V2 Phase-Out - What Developers Need to Know
Are you a Chrome extension developer still using Manifest V2? It's time to plan your migration! Google is phasing out Manifest V2, and this article provides a clear timeline and actionable steps to ensure your extensions remain functional and available to users.
The Clock is Ticking: Understanding the Manifest V2 Sunset
Google is ending support for Manifest V2 to enhance Chrome extension security, performance, and privacy. Keep reading to understand the key dates and how the changes will affect your extensions and users.
Critical Dates: Key Milestones in the Manifest V2 Deprecation Timeline
Stay ahead of the curve. These dates outline the progression of Manifest V2 deprecation:
- June 2022: Chrome Web Store stopped accepting new private Manifest V2 extensions.
- January 2022: Chrome Web Store stopped accepting new public/unlisted Manifest V2 extensions; changing existing extensions' visibility was also disabled.
- June 3, 2024: Chrome began displaying warning banners in Beta, Dev, and Canary channels, alerting users to installed Manifest V2 extensions that will soon be unsupported, while also removing "Featured" badges from MV2 extensions.
- June 2025: Enterprises relying on the
ExtensionManifestV2Availabilitypolicy must complete their migration. This policy grants a one-year extension before deprecation impacts them.
What Happens When Manifest V2 is Disabled? Minimize User Disruption.
The phase-out won't happen overnight. Here's how Chrome's changes will impact your users, starting with pre-stable channel builds before moving to the Chrome Stable channel:
- Warning Banners: Users on Chrome Beta, Dev, and Canary channels will see warning banners for installed Manifest V2 extensions.
- Extension Disablement: Manifest V2 extensions will gradually be disabled.
- Web Store Redirection: Users will be directed to the Chrome Web Store for Manifest V3 alternatives.
- Temporary Re-enablement: Initially, users can manually re-enable Manifest V2 extensions, but this option will eventually be removed.
Enterprise Exemption: An Extra Year for Migration
Enterprises utilizing the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy have until June 2025 to migrate. This policy delays the impact of the deprecation, providing an additional year for transitioning their extensions.
- Continued Functionality: Browsers with the policy enabled will remain unaffected until June 2025.
- Strategic Planning: Use this extra time to plan and execute a smooth migration to Manifest V3 across your organization.
Actionable Steps: Preparing for the Manifest V2 Transition
Don't wait until the last minute! Proactive steps you need to take:
- Identify Manifest V2 Extensions: Audit your existing extensions to identify those still using Manifest V2.
- Prioritize Migration: Focus on migrating your most critical and widely used extensions first.
- Thorough Testing: Test your Manifest V3 extensions thoroughly on pre-stable Chrome channels (Beta, Dev, Canary) before deploying to stable channels.
- Communicate with Users: Keep your users informed about the upcoming changes and the benefits of Manifest V3.
- Stay Updated: Monitor the Chromium blog for the latest announcements and updates on the Manifest V2 phase-out.
Manifest V3: Embracing the Future of Chrome Extensions
Migrating to Manifest V3 unlocks enhanced security, privacy, and performance capabilities for your Chrome extensions. Start planning your transition today to ensure a seamless experience for your users.
