Myth buster: Kami needs a Chrome app

As technology evolves, so do the tools that educators rely on. One tool that has evolved significantly is Kami, our all-in-one digital learning platform. Despite incredible functionality, some people still believe that Kami requires a Chrome app to work effectively. This misconception stems from the fact that Kami did have a Chrome app in the past. However, Google’s upcoming phase-out of Chrome apps is set to bring changes. In this article, we’re here to bust the myth that Kami needs a Chrome app, and explain why using the Kami Chrome Extension is all you need to get the full Kami experience.

In today’s conversation, Paul Savage (Savvy), Senior Product Marketing Manager at Kami, sits down with Dane Maslen (Dane), our Chief Information Security Officer, to clarify why the Chrome Extension is the future.

Savvy:
Dane, good to catch up with you again, this time for the fourth article in our new ‘myth buster’ series. There’s been a lot of chatter about Chrome apps being phased out. Some people still think Kami needs a Chrome app to function properly. What’s your take on this?

Dane:
It’s a common misconception, Savvy. While Kami initially had a Chrome app, the reality is that it’s no longer necessary – and hasn’t been for quite a while to be honest. Google’s decision to phase out Chrome apps is part of their broader shift toward web technologies, and Kami is fully aligned with that move.

In fact, the Kami Chrome Extension is not just a replacement – it’s the superior solution. It allows teachers and students to access Kami seamlessly within their browser, providing better integration with other tools, faster updates, and a more responsive experience. The Chrome Extension is optimized for real-time collaboration, accessibility, and the most up-to-date features – everything teachers and students need without the limitations of the app.

Savvy:
So if the app is going away, why does it still matter that users install Kami via the Chrome Extension?

Dane:
Great question! The Chrome Extension is the simplest and most effective way to use Kami, and here’s why. With the extension, Kami is directly integrated into the browser. This means users don’t have to worry about dealing with clunky apps or managing multiple platforms. The extension works seamlessly with Google Classroom, Schoology, and other LMS platforms. This makes it easy to assign, grade, and collaborate on documents, all without leaving your LMS.

Additionally, because the extension works directly within the browser, updates happen automatically. That’s a huge benefit compared to the app, which could sometimes require manual updates or troubleshooting when issues arose.

Savvy:
Great, thanks for that. So, with the end of Chrome app support coming up, do you think this transition will disrupt users’ day-to-day experience with Kami?

Dane:
Not at all. In fact, this transition is going to improve things for Kami users. The Chrome Extension allows for more dynamic, flexible usage compared to the app. Teachers won’t need to worry about app-specific quirks or compatibility issues. They’ll get the full Kami experience, whether it’s annotating documents, collaborating with students, or accessing real-time performance insights. Everything runs seamlessly in the browser.

Moreover, as Google moves toward web standards, Kami’s focus on browser-based solutions ensures that users are always using the most advanced, secure, and compatible version of the tool. So, the phasing out of the Chrome app is actually just making things easier and more future-proof for everyone.

Savvy:
Got it. Let’s talk about Kami’s integration with LMS platforms. How does the Chrome Extension enhance the experience compared to the old app?

Dane:
The integration with LMS platforms is where the Chrome Extension really shines. Unlike the app, which was somewhat disconnected from the LMS experience, the extension integrates directly into the learning management system. This means teachers can seamlessly assign, collect, and grade assignments using time savers like Kami Class View – right from their LMS.

For example, with the Chrome Extension, you don’t have to switch between multiple tabs or apps to distribute assignments, provide feedback, or access student work. Everything is streamlined in one place. It’s a massive time-saver and a huge step forward in simplifying teacher workflows.

Savvy:
For teachers and districts making the switch, do you have any final tips for ensuring a smooth transition from the Chrome app to the Chrome Extension?

Dane:
Absolutely. The most important thing is to make sure everyone knows that the Chrome Extension is the way forward and that the Chrome app is being phased out. The installation process is simple: just head to the Chrome Web Store and get the extension, then pin it to your browser.

Another key tip is to ensure that all users are aware of the automatic updates. The extension will stay up-to-date without requiring manual intervention, which eliminates the risk of running outdated versions. Plus, pinning it to the toolbar ensures quick access.

And if you haven’t yet integrated Kami into your LMS workflows, now is the perfect time to do so. The Chrome Extension makes that integration even smoother.

Savvy:
It sounds like the Chrome Extension really is the future for Kami and our users. Before we wrap up, what’s the biggest takeaway for educators when it comes to Chrome apps and Kami?

Dane:
The biggest takeaway is that Kami users don’t need to worry about the Chrome app phase-out. The Chrome Extension offers all the features of the app and more, in a more seamless and up-to-date environment. It integrates with your LMS, automatically updates, and is fully optimized for collaboration, feedback, and accessibility. The extension is the way forward, and it’ll only improve the Kami experience moving forward.

Summary

The myth that Kami needs a Chrome app is just that, a myth. As Chrome apps phase out, the Kami Chrome Extension stands as the best way to use the platform. It’s easy to install, seamlessly integrates with LMS systems, and updates automatically, ensuring a smooth and modern experience for educators and students. 

By installing the extension and pinning it to your browser, you’ll future-proof your Kami experience and continue to access all the innovative features Kami has to offer.

Discover more

Ready to transition to the Kami Chrome Extension? Learn how Kami can enhance your classroom experience by speaking with our sales team today:
👉 Connect with the Kami Sales Team