Microsoft to Retire Manifest V2 Extensions and Switch to V3 for Improved Security and Performance
Brief
Microsoft will retire support for Manifest V2 browser extensions in Microsoft Edge by early 2027, requiring users, enterprises, and developers to move to Manifest V3. The transition is intended to strengthen browser security, improve performance, and reduce the risks linked to legacy extension code.
Microsoft announced the change in Message Center notification MC1467356, published on September 4, 2026. The company plans to begin the enterprise rollout in early January 2027 and complete it by late April 2027.
The retirement will affect Microsoft Edge desktop users on Windows, macOS, and Linux across Canary, Dev, Beta, and Stable channels. Manifest files define an extension’s capabilities, permissions, background processes, and other operating behavior.