Apps, Extension, and Add-Ons

Often when I am discussing Apps, Extensions, and Add-Ons there is confusion over what each of these things is and how to get them. So I thought I would try and clear up the confusion with this post. 

Apps are, in simple terms, cloud-based programs that work by accessing them through a browser or, in the case of mobile devices, downloading apps to the device. Examples of apps are Google Docs, Google Classroom, Google Sheets, Mindomo, etc. To get Apps you go to the Google Play store. You can also get new apps on a chromebook or from your drive by clicking the apps icon> More>Even More for Google or clicking the Apps icon>More>More from Apps Marketplace .

Extensions are small "helper" programs that extend the capabilities of the chrome browser. Chrome Extensions do not work in other browsers you need to use chrome to access them. When you have apps installed they will normally show up next to your address bar when they are accessible or active.

The above example image shows the extensions for Mindomo and Speakit! are install and active in the browser. 

While extensions can be made available to everyone using a device, it is a good idea to sign into the chrome browser before you install extensions. Then when you install extensions they will follow you to any chrome browser you sign into. 

To install a new extension you do the following: 

1. Click the Menu icon in the top right of the chrome browser. 

2. Click the Setting item that appears in the menu.  

3. Click extensions in the window that appears. 

4. The extensions window will open. If you have any extensions installed already you will see them listed. If not you can click the Get More Extension link to add extensions. 

5. You can also use the extensions window to enable, disable, or remove extensions.

Add-Ons are like small apps or macros that work inside or compliment other apps. For example if you are working in Google Docs you can access various Add-ons through the Add-ons menu item. Add-ons are available for and only work in the App they were designed for. Currently, Add-ons are available for Google Docs and Google Sheets. 

The Add-On Menu item in Google Docs.

So, depending whether you want something to help you do something in an App, the Chrome browser, or Google Docs or Sheets, you can choose to use an App, Extension, or Add-On.