With the release of macOS Big Sur, Safari started using a new extensions API that allows you to use plugins created for other browsers. Now we know that developers from Apple, Mozilla, Google, and Microsoft have decided to go a step further, joining forces to standardize the methodology for extension development. Plugin developers will also be able to participate in this initiative.
Representatives from all major browser developers are reportedly participating in the standardization of extensions, and the group, called the WebExtensions Community Group (WECG), will be led by Timothy Hatcher from Apple and Simeon Vincent from Google. Together, they will try to solve several basic problems.
First of all, we are talking about simplifying the development process of extensions by creating a coherent model and a common core, functionality, APIs and permissions. It is also planned to create a description of the architecture; the use of which will improve the performance of created solutions, as well as make them more secure.
At the same time, the project participants do not intend to specify every aspect of extensions development or stifle innovation. Each browser developer will continue to work independently according to their own rules and policies. Extension and browser developers interested in participating in this project can join by submitting an application on the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) website. WECG members have created a separate repository on GitHub, which will be used for future work. It also contains rules and regulations for the new developer community.

Google has added new security features to the Chrome browser. They’re here to make it easier to detect questionable downloads and extensions. These features build on the browser’s Advanced Secure Browsing feature, which was available last year and helps identify phishing sites.
The browser will now display a notification when extensions are installed; if a user-selected addon is not considered trustworthy. Only software released by developers who comply with Google Developer Program rules; and have been on the platform for at least several months will be included in the list of trusted extensions.
When a user tries to download an untrusted extension, the browser warns you to be careful. Google says that nearly three-quarters of the extensions available in the Chrome store will receive Trusted status.
Chrome also got a new feature to scan for suspicious downloads. In the future, users will be able to first download suspicious files to a Google server for a more thorough check; and only then download them to their computer. This feature can be turned off if desired. Google says that the new features will be gradually implemented in Chrome 91, released late last month.