Empowering Web Apps: Chrome’s Universal Install and Shortcut Clarity

Google bridges the gap between web apps and native apps

3 min. read

Published onFebruary 14, 2024

published onFebruary 14, 2024

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Google is exploring ways to make websites in Chrome feel more native and app-like (through installation), while also being transparent that shortcuts aren’t true apps but ratherfire-and-forgetlinks. This effort is evident in new experimental features currently tested in Chrome Canary. Remember, these features are still under development and subject to change.

Bridging the Gap Between Websites and Apps

We’ve previously seen collaborations between Microsoft and Google to enhance Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) in Chromium browsers like Edge and Chrome. Now, Chrome Canaryintroducesnew interesting features:

Web App Universal Install

Tired of juggling between web apps and native apps? Say goodbye to limitations! This feature empowers any website to be installed on your computer, regardless of the operating system—whether it’s Windows, Mac, or Linux, Imagine accessing your favorite web tools as seamlessly as desktop apps, without the need for multiple browser tabs.

Web App Universal InstallAllows any site to be installable on Windows, Mac, and Linux. – Mac, Windows, Linux, ChromeOS, Fuchsia, Lacros

Shortcuts, not Apps

If you create a shortcut to a website on your desktop using the available menu option, don’t mistake it for a full-fledged app. Google wants users to understand that these shortcuts are fire-and-forget solutions. They ignore web app manifest information and rely solely on details from the current page. When you double-click a shortcut, it opens in a tab within the Chrome browser, lacking typical web app features.

Shortcuts not AppsChanges the ‘create shortcut’ 3-dot menu option to put a fire-and-forget link on the desktop, instead of an app. – Mac, Windows, Linux, Fuchsia

Manifest independence

Web app manifests are useful, but sometimes a quick shortcut is all you need. This feature lets you bypass the manifest entirely when creating a shortcut. Chrome extracts relevant information directly from the page, ensuring your shortcut reflects exactly what you want.

Create Shortcut ignores manifestWhen the ‘Create Shortcut’ menu item is selected, use information from the current page, ignoring any web app manifest information that may be available. – Mac, Windows, Linux, ChromeOS, Fuchsia, Lacros

BothShortcuts not AppsandCreate Shortcut Ignores Manifestfeatures relate to Google’s goal of clear communication: websites, even when installed, are different from native apps. Shortcuts offer ease of access, not full app functionality.

Key Points to Remember:

Recently, we reported that Chrome on Android is testing a universal install UI for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). This feature aims tocreate a unified path for both installation and adding to the home screen.If you’re interested, feel free to check it out.

What’s your take on these changes to web apps or Websites in Chrome browser? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below

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Empowering Web Apps: Chrome’s Universal Install and Shortcut Clarity#

Web App Universal Install#

Shortcuts, not Apps#

Manifest independence#

With KB5043178 to Release Preview Channel, Microsoft advises Windows 11 users to plug in when the battery is low

Copilot in Outlook will generate personalized themes for you to customize the app

Microsoft will raise the price of its 365 Suite to include AI capabilities

Death Stranding Director’s Cut is now Xbox X|S at a huge discount

Outlook will let users create custom account icons so they can tell their accounts apart easier

Empowering Web Apps: Chrome’s Universal Install and Shortcut Clarity

Web App Universal Install

Shortcuts, not Apps

Manifest independence