Introducing ExBoost: Revolutionizing Chrome Extension Discoverability
Empowering extension developers with community-driven promotion
As a Web Extensions Google Developer Expert, I constantly see this question asked by extension developers:
How can I get more users?
This question underscores a universal struggle within the extension ecosystem: regardless of their utility, innovative features, or the problem they solve, extensions face an uphill battle for visibility.
All extensions - especially newly created extensions - suffer from this problem.
The Chrome Web Store’s catalogue is massive, and all but the most popular extensions are buried in search results.
An extension without reviews or users will have a hard time getting someone to install it.
Digital advertising is very expensive, and most extensions tend to generate little or no revenue.
Enter the concept of community-driven growth. It's no secret that extension enthusiasts not only love utilizing these tools to enhance their browsing experience but are also always on the lookout for the next great addition to their digital toolkit.
This insight lies at the heart of the solution I've been collaborating on: ExBoost.
What is ExBoost?
ExBoost proposes a simple approach to extension promotion: a networked ecosystem where extensions help each other gain visibility through mutual promotion.
ExBoost is a network of extensions that add banners to “boost” each other with promotional banners.
It’s similar to conventional digital advertising, with a few important differences:
ExBoost banners only show publicly available extensions, never ads for websites or products.
ExBoost banners only link to the Chrome Web Store, so there is no opportunity for fraud or deceptive practices.
ExBoost is free to use, and does not require signup.
ExBoost banner inside the Example Chrome Extension popup
How does ExBoost work?
ExBoost balances traffic across extensions: the more impressions and clicks that come from your extension, the more your extension will be shown inside other extensions.
How does ExBoost make money?
Need more traffic? You can pay for a campaign to show your extension more often, or to improve targeting.
How can I install ExBoost?
Instructions for installing ExBoost can be found here: https://github.com/classvsoftware/exboost.js
You can add as many ExBoost banner slots to your extension as you want, and make them any size.
When will ExBoost be available?
You can add ExBoost slots to your extension today! Install ExBoost and get your extension showing banners right away.
The ExBoost dashboard is currently in a closed beta. The dashboard is where you can register your extensions, create campaigns, and track slot performance. Click the button below to join the beta.
Learn more: extensionboost.com
Reach out: classvsoftware@gmail.com
Excellent Matt! Great idea.
Really excited for this thing!
Such an innovative idea <3