Kiwi Browser’s Abrupt Shutdown Leaves Android Users Seeking Alternative Browsing Solutions

Kiwi Browser Shuts Down, but Its Extension Support Lives On in Microsoft Edge
The Bittersweet News
Kiwi Browser, a popular alternative to Google Chrome on Android, has announced that it’s effectively shutting down. The app has been pulled from the Play Store, and its development will no longer be maintained after January. However, the good news is that the developer has ported Kiwi’s extension support to Microsoft Edge Canary.
Avoiding the Gaps
As we know, Chrome is the most popular web browser on Android, but it lags behind its desktop counterpart in terms of extension support. Kiwi Browser was a great solution for users who wanted to access Chrome extensions on their mobile devices. While its shutdown is a disappointment, it’s heartening to see that its extension support will live on in Microsoft Edge.
The Kiwi Discord Channel Reveals the Details
According to the Kiwi Discord channel, the browser has been “archived” and will no longer be maintained after this month. The developer, Arnaud42, has noted that users who “really need” Kiwi can download the app via this GitHub link, but warned users not to trust other sources.
Extension Support in Microsoft Edge
To enable extension support in Microsoft Edge Canary, you’ll need to enable developer options and then visit developer options > Extension install by ID. This feature requires you to paste the extension’s ID (e.g., “cnlefmmeadmemmdciolhbnfeacpdfbkd” for Grammarly) into the ‘Extension install by id’ field. This process is more complex than Kiwi’s straightforward installation method, but it’s still a welcome addition to Microsoft Edge.
The Developer’s Perspective
In a series of Discord messages, Arnaud42 explained that browsers are complex to maintain and require a long commitment. He also mentioned that the project started because he personally wanted extensions on mobile.
What’s Next?
While Kiwi Browser’s shutdown is a loss for users who loved its Chrome extension support, it’s heartening to see that its best feature will live on in another browser. Edge isn’t the only Android web browser with extension support, though – Firefox and Samsung Internet also offer this feature. Now, about Chrome getting browser support on Android phones…
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