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How to Make a Website an App on Chrome?

Published in Web Development 2 mins read

You can't directly "make" a website into a Chrome app. However, you can achieve a similar experience by using Chrome's "Create shortcut" feature to add a website to your Chrome browser's app launcher. This will create an icon that launches the website in a separate window, resembling a dedicated app.

Here's how to do it:

  1. Open the website you want to add as an app in Chrome.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the browser window.
  3. Select "More tools" and then "Create shortcut".
  4. Check the box for "Open as window" if you want the website to open in a separate window like a regular app.
  5. Click "Create".

Now, you'll have a shortcut for the website in your Chrome app launcher. You can rename the shortcut, change the icon, and even pin it to your taskbar for easy access.

Note: This method only creates a shortcut and doesn't actually transform a website into a native app. The website will still open in your browser, but it will appear in a separate window.

For a more immersive experience, consider using a Progressive Web App (PWA). PWAs are websites that are designed to function like native apps. They can be installed on your device and offer features like push notifications and offline access.

To install a PWA:

  1. Visit the website that offers a PWA.
  2. Look for an "Install" button or a similar prompt.
  3. Click the button to install the PWA.

Once installed, the PWA will appear as an app in your device's app launcher.

Additional tips:

  • Check for existing Chrome apps: Some websites may already have dedicated Chrome apps. You can search for them in the Chrome Web Store.
  • Consider using extensions: Chrome extensions can enhance your browsing experience and provide features similar to native apps.

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