I used Claude Code to build the browser feature I've been wanting for years
Breaking up with a browser doesn't mean giving up its best features.
For years, the user has struggled with browser limitations, switching frequently between options to find the perfect fit. Each browser excels in certain areas but falls short in others. The user's ideal browser features include Zen's minimalist interface and excellent tab management, but lacks support for DRM-protected streaming services, high RAM usage, and a specific feature called Glance.
Glance, a feature from Zen, allows users to quickly preview a webpage by holding down the Alt/Option key and clicking a link. This results in a floating preview window over the current tab, preventing a cluttered tab bar and streamlining the research process for the user, who often opens numerous tabs for verification purposes.
The user decided to use Claude Code, an AI-assisted coding tool, to recreate Glance as a Chrome extension. This approach proved to be a more practical solution, as it allows the user to install the feature across multiple Chromium-based browsers without the need to build separate versions for each platform. Claude Code was instructed to package the Glance feature as a Chrome extension, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation.
The extension was built and installed within 20 minutes, offering numerous customization options, including customizable keyboard shortcuts, preview window size and appearance, and the ability to expand previews into regular tabs. The extension also accounts for websites that block embedded content, providing workarounds to ensure optimal functionality.
With Glance now installed as a Chrome extension, the user can quickly preview web pages without opening new tabs or navigating away from the current page. This feature has significantly improved the user's research process, allowing for efficient tab management and seamless navigation. Despite the growing concerns surrounding vibe coding, the user appreciates the freedom and flexibility it provides in building tailored solutions to their specific needs.
Written by urgent.news from XDA Developers's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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