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CT Chromebooks #4 - Installing Apps

The Chrome Web Store

Chromebooks are incredibly powerful tools. Machines that open doors and level playing fields for many students. Sometimes, they need a little extra boost in order to achieve the full power of the devices. This is something that is easy to do using the Chrome Web Store.

To access the Chrome Web Store, simply navigate your Chrome browser to the Web Store. There, you will find thousands of free apps (although, the Chrome Web Store has recently started to allow developers to charge for apps) that you can use on your Chromebooks. These apps are not traditional apps, in the sense that they are installed on your computer, instead, you install them in your Chrome browser, so the apps will follow you to wherever you log in.



The Chrome Web Store also breaks the apps into helpful categories as well. For instance, there are categories for education, finance, entertainment, games, etc. It is very helpful, especially the education setting as the apps have been vetted and placed into the category.



To install the specific app, search for the app and click the tile when you find it. This will take you to a page that provides you with some more details about the app. This will allow you to see any additional requirements of the app and make the most informed decision. Finally, once you are ready, click the “Add to Chrome” button at the top of the pop-out and what to install. At the bottom of the page, you will find some additional suggestions based on the app you that just install.



To find your installed apps, simply click on the launcher in the lower left-hand corner of your device and click on the all apps button. Navigate between pages at the bottom of the App Window.



The Difference Between Extensions and Apps

The Chrome Web Store provides two unique tools. First, you have applications. Chrome Apps are a set of instructions that usually takes you to a different website (like WeVideo, Docs, or Slides). Usually, Chrome Apps will navigate you to a new spot on the internet. Extensions are different. Extensions increase your productivity and efficiency in the browser itself. Extensions include items like AdBlock Plus, Share to Classroom, Hide YouTube Comments, and Scissors and Glue. Extensions help to manage your browsing experience, whereas apps are designed to provide you with the ability to create, work, or navigate to specific areas.

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