According to Windows Report | Error-free Tech Life, Google is testing a new Web Install API that could fundamentally change how users install web applications across different browsers. The feature is being developed with collaboration from Microsoft Edge engineers as part of their ongoing Chromium partnership, allowing websites to install Progressive Web Apps directly from web content rather than relying on traditional browser prompts or app stores. The API currently works in desktop versions of Chrome and Edge starting with version 139 or higher, with Android support planned for later. Users can try the experimental feature by enabling the “Web App Installation API” flag in their browser settings, though Firefox and Safari haven’t yet implemented support despite ongoing discussions in web standards groups. The browser always requires user confirmation before installation, preventing websites from installing unsafe or unlisted content without permission.
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What This Changes
Here’s the thing – this could actually be a pretty big deal. Right now, installing web apps is kind of a fragmented experience that depends heavily on which browser you’re using and whether that browser’s particular install prompt decides to show up. With this new API, any website could theoretically include an install button, and app directories could become much more useful. Basically, we’re looking at making web apps as easy to install as clicking a button on a webpage, regardless of whether you’re in Chrome, Edge, or potentially any browser that adopts the standard.
App Store Implications
Now this is where it gets interesting. If websites can install their own apps directly, what happens to the traditional app stores? Google and Apple have built massive businesses around their app store ecosystems, taking cuts of revenue and controlling distribution. This move could potentially reduce dependence on those walled gardens. But wait – isn’t Google the same company that runs the Google Play Store? Exactly. It seems like Google is betting that making the web more powerful ultimately benefits them more than protecting their app store revenue, especially as they face increasing regulatory pressure around their store practices.
Browser Wars Revisited
The collaboration between Chrome and Edge teams isn’t surprising since they’re both built on Chromium now. But what about Firefox and Safari? They’re part of the discussions in web standards groups, but haven’t committed to implementation yet. And honestly, that’s the real test – will this become a true web standard or just another Chromium-dominated feature? If Apple doesn’t get on board, this could create yet another fragmentation issue where web apps work differently across browsers. Remember when Microsoft tried to dominate the web with Internet Explorer? History might not repeat itself, but it often rhymes.
Try It Yourself
If you’re curious about how this works in practice, you can check out the GitHub repository for technical details or see the Microsoft Edge demo that shows how app directories might work. There’s also a simple test page where you can see the installation prompt in action if you have the feature enabled. The broader discussion about this standard is happening in the Chromium developer group if you want to follow along with the technical debate.
