Google, Microsoft, and Mozilla Work Together on Better Browser Extensions

Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Mozilla have launched the WebExtensions Community Group (WECG) to collaborate on standardizing browser extensions to enhance both security and performance.

“With multiple browsers adopting a broadly compatible model for extensions in the last few years, the WECG is excited to explore how browser vendors and other interested parties can work together to advance a common browser extension platform,” the browser vendors said.

Working on browser extensions web standards

The four organizations want to develop what amounts to web standards for browser extensions, standards that will be guided by a shared set of HTML and W3C TAG design principles.

These principles include but are not limited to “compatibility, performance, security, privacy, portability, maintainability, and well-defined behavior.”

The future extension web standards will use a foundation built on top of existing extension models and APIs supported by Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Safari.

“We aim to identify common ground, bring implementations into closer alignment, and chart a course for future evolution,” the companies added.

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WECG’s end goals

The new group endeavors to work on a shared vision for browser extensions and towards future standardization, with a focus on:

• Making extension creation easier for developers by specifying a consistent model and common core of functionality, APIs, and permissions.
• Outline an architecture that enhances performance and is even more secure and resistant to abuse.

However, the WECG’s efforts will not be focused on specifying, standardizing, or coordinating extension signing or delivery as these goals are out-of-scope according to the group’s charter.

Instead, every browser vendor will continue to operate their own fully independent extension stores, with separate technical, review, and editorial policies.

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“Apple, Google, Microsoft and Mozilla are initiating this community group, and we welcome other browser makers, extension developers, and interested parties to join this effort,” WECG members added.