Google has announced that it is set to discontinue Chrome apps entirely on Windows, Mac, and Linux by early 2018.
Do you use Chrome apps? Some people find quick applications in their browser a joy to use, while others find it a chore. Regardless, Google has announced its plans to axe the feature entirely, and will withdraw support for Chrome apps altogether on Windows, Mac, and Linux by 2018.
The announcement, posted on Google’s official Chromium Blog, cites that the decision has been made in order to simplify Chrome. Both packaged and hosted apps will see the cessation of support by 2018.
Read: Google is working on a VR version of Chrome
This means that Google’s Chrome browser will soon become devoid of its built-in app store and accompanying web apps, while Google has clarified Chrome apps are set to stay aboard Chrome OS.
The company has stated that developers will be able to continue building both Chrome and Android apps for Chrome OS.
The news forms part of a general ‘doubling down’ on Chrome apps Google has initiated since the arrival of the Google Play Store aboard Chrome OS. Google cites that less than 1% of Chrome users on Windows, Mac, and Linux actively use packaged apps. Further, earlier this year, the company announced that its Chrome app launcher would soon dissapear altogether from Windows, Mac, and Linux, as well.
While Chrome OS will retain support for Chrome and Android apps, its browser counterpart will retain support for extensions and themes for the forseeable future.
Read: Chromebooks outsell Macs in the United States
What are your thoughts on Google moving away from Chrome’s browser applications? Are there any you will miss using in your day to day? Be sure to let us know your opinion in the comments below!
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