The release of Windows 10 brought the end of Internet Explorer and the introduction of an all-new web browser called Edge, which is the new default choice. Developing a new browser from the ground up means a lot of features found in IE11 are no longer supported, and extension support was one of the most notable extra to get the axe.
That’s only a temporary situation, as extension support is being built for Edge, but it looks like fans of the new browser are going to have to wait a bit longer. According to a statement issued to The Verge, extensions are planned for an ambiguous launch window of 2016. Microsoft said earlier this year that they’d be available sometime in late 2015.
“We’re committed to providing customers with a personalized web experience,” Microsoft said. “Which is why bringing extensions to Microsoft Edge continues to be a high priority. We’re actively working to develop a secure extension model to make the safest and most reliable browser for our customers, and look forward to sharing more in a future Windows 10 update in 2016.”
While extension support for Edge is still being tested by Microsoft internally, the company has said in the past that it wants to make it easy for Chrome and Firefox developers to make the move to Edge. Similar to Windows 10 Mobile’s compatibility with Android and iOS code, Edge will support extensions from competing browsers.
Though the reasons for the delay are hazy, the company may just need more time to make sure the safety of its third-party apps given Microsoft’s clear focus on Edge’s security.
Regardless of when they actually hit, extensions will be a welcome feature considering Edge’s predecessor, Internet Explorer supported them for years. The lack of extension support is a big problem for the browser’s current incarnation. It means a lack of support for not just convenient additions, but also security extensions like LastPass, which can help keep users safe online.
