According to Windows Report | Error-free Tech Life, Microsoft has added browser extension support to Edge on iPads with version 142.3595.53. Users running iPadOS 18.4 or later can now install extensions including Ublock Origin Lite, Immersive Translate, Keepa, and Coupert directly from the menu. The Extensions section appears next to Downloads and New InPrivate Tab, making installation instant without requiring experimental flags. Microsoft currently offers 17 extensions with a “More coming soon” message confirming expansion plans. The update also brings a redesigned Copilot Composer with simpler menus and PDF annotation capabilities. Edge now supports background YouTube playback in its iOS beta version, removing the need for YouTube Premium.
Edge finally catches up
This is actually a pretty big deal. Safari’s had extensions on iPad for ages, and Edge felt kinda barebones without them. Now Microsoft‘s closing that gap in a meaningful way. The fact that they’ve included heavy hitters like Ublock Origin Lite right out of the gate shows they’re serious about this rollout.
Here’s the thing though – 17 extensions isn’t exactly an overwhelming selection. It’s enough to cover the basics, but power users might find the catalog a bit thin initially. That “More coming soon” note feels both promising and a bit defensive. Microsoft knows this is just the starting line.
The iPad browser wars heat up
So why now? Apple’s been slowly opening up iOS and iPadOS to more browser competition, and Microsoft’s clearly positioning Edge as a legitimate alternative to Safari. With Orion Browser also in the extensions game, we’re finally seeing real browser choice emerge on Apple’s walled garden.
And let’s talk about that background YouTube playback in the iOS beta. That’s a killer feature that directly challenges YouTube’s push for Premium subscriptions. Microsoft’s basically saying “Hey, you don’t need to pay for that.” Clever move.
What comes next?
The real test will be how quickly Microsoft expands that extension catalog. Will we see developer interest spike now that there’s another viable platform beyond Safari? I’m betting yes – the iPad user base is too valuable to ignore.
Basically, this feels like Microsoft playing the long game. They’re not trying to beat Safari overnight, but they’re building a credible alternative piece by piece. The combination of extensions, Copilot integration, and those productivity features like PDF annotation makes Edge suddenly feel like a much more complete package.
You can grab the updated Edge from the App Store here if you want to test drive the new features yourself.
