Extensions are mini apps that add extra functionality to your browser. In Chrome, you add an extension, and that̵
Download and install Safari extensions on Mac
Mac users using Safari 12.0 and above (with macOS Mojave and above) should use the App Store method to install Safari extensions. Here you need to download the extension as an app first and then enable the extension before you can start using it.
First, make sure you’re using the latest version of macOS.
RELATED: Update your Mac and keep apps up to date
Then open the “Safari” browser. Here click on the “Safari” button in the menu bar and choose the option “Safari Extensions”.
This will open the “Safari Extensions” section directly in the App Store app.
You can also open the App Store, go to the “Categories” section in the sidebar and choose the “Safari Extensions” option to get to this section.
Here you’ll see extensions grouped into multiple categories, along with a ‘Most Popular Free’ and ‘Most Paid’ section.
Select the extension you want to download here.
Then click on the “Get” or “Install” button.
When prompted, enter your Apple ID username and password.
The extension, or rather the app, will now be installed on your Mac. If you want, you can open the app. But chances are, it just gives you instructions on how to enable the extension.
How to enable an installed Safari extension on Mac
As we mentioned at the top, you can’t use a Safari extension right after you install it. Instead, you need to go to “Safari Preferences” and enable an extension.
When you go back to Safari, you will see a banner stating that new extensions are available. Click the “Enable and Assess” button here.
This will take you directly to the “Extensions” tab in Safari preferences.
Or go to Safari> Preferences in the menu bar and select the “Extensions” tab to see a list of all available extensions.
To enable an extension, click the check mark next to the extension in the left sidebar.
In the pop-up message, choose the option “Enable”.
You can come back here at any time and click the check mark again to disable the extension.
How to Use Safari Extensions on Mac
Once the extension is enabled, it will appear in the Safari toolbar, right next to the URL bar.
Navigate to a page in Safari and click on an extension to use it. Each extension has its own functionality and you will see all the features and options in the drop-down list below.
You are free to move the extension icons anywhere in the Safari toolbar. Hold down the “Command” key and drag the extension icon to the new location. Check out our complete guide to customizing the Safari toolbar for more information.
RELATED: How to Customize the Safari Toolbar on Your Mac
