Google has recently unveiled a groundbreaking feature for Chromebook users with the introduction of an ‘Add to Chromebook’ badge for web apps. This innovative badge is aimed at simplifying the process of discovering and installing web apps on Chromebooks, enhancing the overall user experience. By streamlining the app installation process, Google is revolutionizing the way users interact with web apps on their Chromebooks.
The ‘Add to Chromebook’ badge is a recent addition by Google that aims to make it easier for ChromeOS users to find and install new web apps (PWAs) and Android apps. When users click on the badge, they are directed to the secure app they wish to install or to the Google Play Store for Android apps. According to a Google I/O session video on ChromeOS, many users start their app search with a Google search and often end up on developers’ websites, where the ‘Add to Chromebook’ badge can be prominently displayed, guiding ChromeOS users to the app.
While installing Android apps on a Chromebook is relatively straightforward, web apps often appear as just another Chrome browser tab, making it unclear how to install the app on the Chromebook itself. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) offer a unique advantage as they can function almost like a native app, even offline, and load faster. By adding the ‘Add to Chromebook’ badge, Google aims to increase the visibility and accessibility of these apps for users.
Google highlights that there are over 100 million monthly web app users on Chrome browsers across all platforms, including ChromeOS. This presents a vast opportunity for developers to showcase their apps on Chromebooks and reach a wide audience of users. The introduction of the ‘Add to Chromebook’ badge is expected to facilitate the discovery and installation of web apps, offering users a seamless and efficient experience.
