How to create your own new tab extensions for Google Chrome

Google Chrome's extensive library of extensions—add-ons enhancing page layouts, bookmark management, online security, and more—is a key part of its appeal. While creating Chrome extensions typically requires coding skills, Google's new Tab Maker empowers users to build custom New Tab pages without any programming.

Tab Maker focuses solely on customizing the New Tab page, the screen displayed when opening a new tab. Instead of the default Google search box and frequently visited sites, Tab Maker lets you create a personalized and visually appealing experience.

Explore Tab Maker's Gallery for inspiration, showcasing examples ranging from space photos to pet images. Click Make Your Own, then Get Started, to begin. Select one of eleven layout templates, each offering unique text and image combinations. Click Next to proceed.

The next step involves a Google Sheet. Use the Try With Example Content option for pre-filled data (easily editable), or Add Your Own Content for a blank sheet. The spreadsheet, complete with instructions, opens in a new tab (keep Tab Maker open).

[Related: Streamline Google Docs and Sheets with Scripts and Macros]

Populate the sheet with image links, web links, and text, guided by the template layout displayed at the top. Add rows as needed; each new tab opening will randomly select a row. For example, using different photos per row creates a varied experience.

Publish the spreadsheet publicly via File > Publish to the web, ensuring the content sheet (Step 2) is selected and the format is Comma-separated values (instructions are in the spreadsheet). Copy the generated URL.

Paste the URL back into Tab Maker. A preview of your custom New Tab page appears. Use the dropdown to select rows, and adjust settings (image size, font, background, alignment) using the left-side options.

The final step involves naming your extension and choosing an icon. Download the generated ZIP file. Install privately via chrome://extensions (enable Developer mode, click Load unpacked), or publicly after registering a Google developer account (a one-time $5 fee is required). Google's guide provides further details on public distribution.

Experimentation is key. Tab Maker allows multiple iterations, editing and republishing your Google Sheet instead of creating new ones. While currently unique, for more advanced extension creation, learning to code is recommended. Alternatively, explore the many existing Chrome New Tab extensions, offering features like satellite imagery, app shortcuts, and to-do list integration.

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