The error “cannot install extension because it uses an unsupported manifest version” primarily occurs in Google Chrome (and other Chromium-based browsers) when trying to install an extension built on Manifest V2.
Google is actively phasing out Manifest V2 in favor of Manifest V3 due to enhanced security, performance, and privacy features in the newer version.
Why This Error Occurs
Manifest V2 Deprecation:
Google has been transitioning away from Manifest V2 for extensions, making Manifest V3 the new standard. As of July 2025, Chrome has largely ended support for Manifest V2 extensions, causing them to fail installation or be disabled.
Security and Performance:
Manifest V3 offers stronger privacy controls, improved security, and better performance for browser extensions, which is why Google is enforcing this transition.
Temporary Workarounds
While these are temporary and may not work in future Chrome updates, you can try:
Enable “Allow legacy extension manifest versions” Flag:
Type
chrome://flagsinto your Chrome address bar and press Enter.Search for “Manifest” and find the flag named “Allow legacy extension manifest versions”.
Change its setting from “Default” to “Enabled” and then relaunch Chrome.
Manually Load the Extension in Developer Mode:
Download the source code of the Manifest V2 extension (often available as a ZIP file from the developer’s GitHub page).
Extract the ZIP file to a folder on your computer.
Go to
chrome://extensionsin your browser.Toggle on “Developer mode” located in the top-right corner of the page.
Click on “Load unpacked” and select the extracted extension folder.
These methods allow you to install and use Manifest V2 extensions, but they are considered temporary solutions as Google plans to completely remove support for Manifest V2 in upcoming Chrome versions. For a long-term solution, extension developers need to update their extensions to Manifest V3.
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