Apple, Microsoft, Google and Mozilla work together to improve browser extension

macOS Big Sur brings many improvements to the Safari browser, in addition to a huge change in appearance and support for more multimedia formats. Most importantly, in terms of browser extensions, the new version of Safari also brings support for the WebExtension API. Apple is also discussing with other technology giants at W3C how to make the process of developing browser extensions easier by reducing the differences between web browsers.

WebExtension API is a cross-platform technology used to provide the same extension in different web browsers, including Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. W3C writes:

This community group seeks to align on a common vision for browser extensions and to work towards future standardization. Specifically, we plan to:

• Make extension creation easier for developers by specifying a consistent model and common core of functionality, APIs, and permissions.
• Outline an architecture that enhances performance and is even more secure and resistant to abuse.

Apple will hold a WWDC 2021 event next week. Joanna Stern of The Wall Street Journal said on Twitter that it is expected that Safari will be a “big updates” at this year’s WWDC.

In other words, Apple has focused on Safari browser extensions last year, making it easier to develop Safari browser extensions. Next, through the cooperation between technology companies, these universal extensions will be able to run easily in Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, both for users and for developers, this will be “a big surprise for everyone. Good thing”.