google-chrome-plugin-sample

Google's Chrome Web Plugin Sample

For a step-by-step plan to build a new extension in this repo, see Chrome Extension Development Plan. For the exact steps and commands used to create the Hello World sample (label + one API button), see Development Steps.

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Exporting the extension

To export the plugin so others can install it (e.g. as a zip file):

1. Prepare the folder
   Use the extension’s root folder (the one that contains manifest.json). Do not include unnecessary files such as .git, node_modules, or local dev scripts.

2. Create a zip

   • macOS/Linux: From the parent of the extension folder, run:

     zip -r my-extension.zip my-extension-folder/ -x "*.git*" -x "*node_modules*"

   • Windows: Right‑click the extension folder → Send to → Compressed (zipped) folder, or use your preferred zip tool.
   • Name the file clearly (e.g. my-extension-v1.0.0.zip).

3. Share the zip
   Send the .zip file to peers or store it where they can download it. They will import it using the steps below.

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Importing the extension (using the zip file)

To import the plugin into Chrome from a zip file:

1. Unzip the file
   Extract the downloaded .zip to a folder (e.g. Downloads/my-extension). The folder must contain manifest.json at the top level.

2. Open Chrome’s Extensions page

   • In the address bar, go to: chrome://extensions
   • Or: Chrome menu (⋮) → More tools → Extensions
   • Or: Click the puzzle icon (Extensions) → Manage Extensions

3. Enable Developer mode
   Turn on Developer mode (toggle in the top‑right of the Extensions page).

5. Load the extension

   • Click Load unpacked.
   • In the file dialog, select the unzipped folder (the one that contains manifest.json), then confirm.

6. Confirm
   The extension should appear in the list. Pin it from the puzzle menu if you want it on the toolbar.