PPlatformAppStores

Firefox Browser Add-ons

Browser

Mozilla Foundation · Browser & OS extension stores

Best for: Developers prioritizing open standards and a privacy-minded audience.

Overview

Firefox Browser Add-ons (AMO) distributes WebExtensions built against Mozilla's cross-browser WebExtensions API. Mozilla runs automated linting plus a human review pass, with a strong emphasis on open-source code and user-data transparency compared to other browser stores.

How to build & ship

  1. 1Create a free Firefox Add-on Developer (AMO) account and accept the distribution agreement
  2. 2Build with the WebExtensions API and a manifest.json (Firefox supports MV2 and MV3)
  3. 3Develop and lint locally with the web-ext CLI (web-ext run, lint, sign)
  4. 4Upload the packaged ZIP/XPI to the Developer Hub for automated validation
  5. 5Add listing metadata and submit; Mozilla signs the add-on before distribution

Key APIs & SDKs

WebExtensions API
manifest.json (MV2/MV3)
web-ext CLI
AMO addons.mozilla.org API
browser.* namespace

Integration types

Extension

Authentication & security

  • Primary auth: None
  • Also supports: API key
  • Security review: Required
  • Automated validation plus manual review for extensions requesting broad permissions.
  • Automated validation plus signing, with human review that can range from hours to several days depending on complexity and whether code is minified.
  • No platform-wide API rate limit; governed by whichever web APIs the extension calls.
Auth docs Store policies

Monetization

Free
Paid app
Onboarding
$0
Commission
0%
Merchant of Record
Developer is MoR

Pros & cons for builders

Pros

  • Free, open, standards-aligned WebExtensions
  • Strong developer tooling (web-ext)
  • Supports self-distribution with signing
  • Privacy-focused user base

Cons

  • Smaller market share than Chromium browsers
  • Some Chrome APIs differ or are unsupported
  • Source-code requirements for obfuscated code

Frequently asked questions

How do I get my app approved on Firefox Browser Add-ons?

Automated validation plus signing, with human review that can range from hours to several days depending on complexity and whether code is minified.

What authentication does Firefox Browser Add-ons use?

Firefox Browser Add-ons apps primarily authenticate with None, also supporting API key.

How is Firefox Browser Add-ons monetized?

Firefox Browser Add-ons supports Free, Paid app. Typical commission: 0%. Onboarding fee: $0.

Is a security review required to list on Firefox Browser Add-ons?

Yes, Firefox Browser Add-ons requires a formal security or listing review before apps go live. Automated validation plus manual review for extensions requesting broad permissions.