Microsoft Axes Legacy Browser Extensions to Boost Security and Performance

Microsoft is phasing out support for Manifest V2 extensions in its Edge browser by early 2027, requiring users and developers to switch to the more secure Manifest V3 framework. The change aims to strengthen browser security, improve performance, and reduce risks associated with legacy extension code.

The company will begin the enterprise rollout of Manifest V3 in January 2027 and complete it by April 2027. During this time, users will see warnings on the Edge Manage Extensions page for Manifest V2 extensions, which will eventually stop functioning.

Microsoft is advising developers to migrate their internal and commercial extensions to Manifest V3, as the company's Partner Center will no longer accept updates for Manifest V2 extensions. Enterprises are also encouraged to identify deployed Manifest V2 extensions and update their deployment policies before the deadline.