Google ending Chrome Apps support June 2022

Two students working on laptops and smiling in One World Café.

Photo by Douglas Levere

Published April 21, 2022

If you use Zoom (or another UB service) on your Chromebook as a Chrome App, switch to the web version before June 2022. In the case of Zoom, you can install the Zoom Progressive Web App (PWA).

Google Chrome Apps were web applications commonly used on Chromebooks and other devices running Chrome OS. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are the technological successor to Chrome Apps; they are hosted entirely on the web but behave like a desktop app (opening in a separate window, for example). PWAs will continue to be supported for use with Chrome OS devices.

Why are Chrome Apps going away?

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According to Google’s Chromium blog, the decision to end support for Chrome Apps was due to two factors: the relatively low usage of Chrome Apps, and the development of technology making it easier to host applications entirely from the web.

“For a while there were certain experiences the web couldn’t provide, such as working offline, sending notifications, and connecting to hardware.”

Today, web applications can provide these features, eliminating the need for Chrome Apps. Although the blog post above says that existing Chrome Apps will continue to be supported into the future, Google has since reversed this decision, deciding to end Chrome Apps support in June 2022.

I use the Zoom Chrome App. What do I need to do?

Zoom already has a Progressive Web App (PWA) version of the Zoom app for use on Chromebooks and other Chrome OS devices. Download the Zoom PWA from the Google Play Store, then uninstall the current Zoom Chrome App.

Zoom Blog: How to use Zoom on a Chromebook with our new Progressive Web App

Can’t I just use the old app?

Using unsupported software can be dangerous, because it will no longer receive updates when security vulnerabilities are discovered. That means that, as time goes on, using the app makes you more vulnerable to having your privacy invaded and your personal information stolen.

For this reason, you are strongly encouraged to stop using Chrome Apps by June 2022, replacing them with web applications when possible.

Need help with software?

Whether using UB services like Zoom from a web browser or desktop app, the UBIT Help Center can provide the support you need to be successful and safe. Contact the UBIT Help Center online at buffalo.edu/ubit/help, or call 716-645-3542.