Manifest description matches store listing intent
Why it matters
The manifest description is the first copy Chrome Web Store renders below the extension name in search results. A vague or absent description like "A useful extension" gives reviewers and users no signal about what the extension actually does, depressing install rates and creating friction in review. Chrome Web Store uses this field in its keyword index, so a weak description directly limits organic discoverability. Descriptions under 10 words fail the chrome-cws-listing-requirements threshold and are flagged during review.
Severity rationale
Medium because a vague description harms discoverability and slows review approval but does not block submission outright.
Remediation
Add a clear, action-oriented description to manifest.json. Stay under 140 characters and lead with the user benefit, not the technical approach.
{
"description": "Organize and manage your browser tabs efficiently with one-click groups and quick access."
}
Avoid openers like "This extension helps you…" — lead with the verb. The description should answer "what does this do for me?" in under 15 words.
DetectionPro
The detection method for this pattern is part of AuditBuffet Pro.
The full method (what to look for, pass and fail conditions, and how results get reported) ships inside the Chrome Web Store Readiness Audit. The pattern definition, severity rationale, and remediation remain openly licensed under CC-BY-4.0.
External references
- external · chrome-cws-listing-requirements — Chrome Web Store — Listing Requirements (description)
Taxons
History
- 2026-04-18·v1.0.0·Initial import from extension-store-readiness·automated