How to Use Chrome Extensions on Android Devices in 2025

If you love using Chrome extensions to enhance your browsing experience on your computer, you might have been frustrated to discover that they aren’t supported on the Google Chrome app for Android. But don’t worry—there’s a solution! With a few simple steps, you can bring the power of Chrome extensions Android to your device using third-party browsers. In this blog, we’ll show you how to easily get started and introduce you to some of the best chrome android extensions to improve your browsing experience. 

Plus, if you’re looking to browse securely and privately, a VPN can help protect your privacy online. While the X-VPN Chrome extension is only available for desktop browsers, for Android users, the best solution is the X-VPN free Android app, which offers secure browsing directly on your mobile device. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of Chrome extensions and secure browsing on your Android phone.

Why Chrome Extensions Are Not Working on Android

One of the main reasons Chrome extensions don’t work on Android is because mobile devices are not as powerful as desktop computers. They have less processing power (the ability to handle tasks) and less memory (the space needed to store and quickly access data). Here’s why that matters:

• Performance: Extensions need extra power to run, which can slow down your device. If you have several extensions running at the same time, your phone might struggle to keep everything working smoothly.
• Battery Life: Many extensions continue to run in the background, even when you’re not using them. This can drain your battery more quickly than usual, especially if you’re using multiple extensions at once.
• Security Risks: Allowing extensions on mobile devices could increase security concerns. Some extensions ask for permissions that they don’t really need, like access to personal data or your camera, which could put your privacy at risk or expose you to harmful content.

Another factor is that many of the most popular Chrome extensions—like ad blockers—could impact Google’s revenue. If ad blockers were allowed on mobile Chrome, it could lead to a significant loss of income from ads.

How to Install and Use Chrome Mobile Extensions on Android

Although the official Google Chrome app for Android doesn’t support extensions, there are alternative browsers that do! Mises and Yandex browsers are two popular Chromium-based browsers that allow you to use Chrome extensions on Android devices. Let’s walk through how to set them up.

Quick Overview of 2 Browsers

Feature	Yandex Browser	Mises Browser
Extension Support	Supports many Chrome extensions.	Supports Chrome extensions, but some newer ones may not work due to the browser’s older version.
Security and Privacy	Has security features like virus scanning, but collects user data (e.g., browsing history) and has privacy concerns due to ties with the Russian government.	Focuses on privacy with features like blocking trackers and not collecting unnecessary user data.
Performance	Loads web pages in 2-3 seconds.	Loads web pages faster (under 2 seconds), similar to Google Chrome.
Open-Source	No	No

How to Use Android Chrome Extensions on Mises Browser

Mises Browser is a third-party Chromium-based browser, which means it’s built on the same foundation as Google Chrome but is developed by another company. This browser supports Chrome extensions on Android. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Download Mises Browser: Go to the Google Play Store and install the Mises Browser.

2. Access Chrome Web Store: In Mises’ address bar, type Chrome Web Store to access the store.

3. Install Extensions: Find the extension you want by typing its name in the search bar. When it shows up, tap Add to Chrome, and confirm by hitting OK on the pop-up.

4. Manage Extensions: Tap the Three Dots in the top-right corner again, select Extensions to see your installed extensions. From here, you can disable, update, or remove them.

5. Verify Your Extension: Open your main browser screen to check if the extension is working. For instance, if you installed an ad-blocker, visit a site with ads to see if they’re blocked.

How to Use Android Chrome Extensions on Yandex Browser

Yandex Browser, another Chromium-based browser, also supports Chrome extensions. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download Yandex Browser: Install Yandex from the Google Play Store.

2. Access Chrome Web Store: In Yandex’s address bar, type Chrome Web Store and press Enter.

3. Install Extensions: Search for your desired extension in the Chrome Web Store, tap Add to Chrome, then tap Add Extension.

4. Manage Extensions: To manage extensions, tap the menu at the bottom-right, then go to Settings > Extensions catalog.

5. Verify the Extension: Go back to your main browsing screen and check if the extension is functioning correctly. For example, visit an ad-heavy site to see if your ad-blocker works.

5 Best Chrome Mobile Extensions on Android

Now that you know how to install extensions, let’s explore some of the best Chrome extensions for Android that can improve your browsing experience:

Adblock Plus

Need: Block ads and pop-ups
Adblock Plus helps users enjoy a cleaner, faster browsing experience by blocking intrusive ads, including pop-ups, video ads, and banners. This extension prevents ads from slowing down your pages and helps protect your privacy by blocking tracking scripts used by advertisers.

X-VPN Chrome Extension

Need: Bypass region restrictions, enhance privacy
X-VPN is a perfect VPN Chrome Extension allows you to access content worldwide by bypassing region restrictions, giving you more freedom to browse. It masks your IP address, enhancing your privacy and keeping your online activities anonymous. With military-grade AES-256 encryption, your data stays secure, and the no-registration free version offers unlimited data for uninterrupted browsing.

Check this guide if you want to explore more vpn chrome extensions: 6 Best Free VPN Chrome Extensions: 100% Safe and Private

Grammarly

Need: Improve grammar and spelling
Grammarly is an advanced writing assistant that checks your text for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors in real-time. Whether you’re writing emails, social media posts, or blog comments, Grammarly ensures your writing is clear and mistake-free by offering suggestions and corrections.

LastPass

Need: Secure password management
LastPass is a password manager that securely stores your passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive information. With LastPass, you don’t need to remember all your login credentials; it automatically fills them in for you. It also generates strong, unique passwords for each site, improving your online security.

Honey

Need: Find and apply coupon codes
Honey is a browser extension that helps you save money while shopping online. When you check out on supported e-commerce websites, Honey automatically searches for available coupon codes and applies the best one to your cart, ensuring you get the best possible discount without the hassle of looking for promo codes yourself.

How to Use Chrome Mobile Extensions on Android Safely

Using Chrome extensions can significantly enhance your browsing experience, but it’s important to be cautious to ensure you’re not compromising your privacy or security. Here are some practical steps to use Chrome extensions safely on Android devices:

Before Using a Chrome Extension

Check the Developer’s Credibility

Not all extensions are created equal. Before installing any extension, take a moment to check who the developer is. Extensions from well-known and reputable developers are more likely to be safe. If the developer is unfamiliar or has a history of shady behavior, it’s better to avoid that extension.

Check Reviews and Ratings

User reviews can be incredibly helpful in identifying potential issues with an extension. Pay attention to the feedback from other users, especially concerning security concerns, bugs, or functionality problems. A solid extension will usually have positive ratings and a good number of reviews.

Check Permissions

Chrome extensions may request permissions to access certain data or functionality on your device. Before installing an extension, carefully review what permissions it asks for. Be cautious if an extension asks for access to things that seem unnecessary for its purpose, such as accessing personal data or device features it doesn’t need to function.

Only Install Extensions from the Chrome Web Store

Installing extensions from unknown third-party websites can be risky. These sources may distribute malicious extensions that could steal your data or infect your device with malware. Stick to the official Chrome Web Store to minimize this risk.

When Using a Chrome Extension

Disable Unused Extensions

If you’re not actively using an extension, it’s a good idea to disable it. This not only saves resources like memory and battery life but also helps protect your privacy. Some extensions might still run in the background, collecting data or consuming processing power, even if you’re not using them.

Update Extensions Regularly

Just like apps, Chrome extensions receive updates to fix bugs, improve functionality, and patch security vulnerabilities. Make sure your extensions are always up to date to ensure they are functioning properly and securely.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of Chrome extensions on your Android device while keeping your data, privacy, and device security in check.

 You can also check more Chrome extension secure tips here!

Conclusion

While Google Chrome doesn’t support extensions on Android devices, using alternative browsers like Yandex and Kiwi can easily solve that problem. By installing these browsers and following our simple steps, you can enjoy a faster, more secure, and customized browsing experience with Chrome extensions on your Android device.

Remember to stay cautious about the extensions you install and follow the safety tips to protect your privacy and device.

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