name: plasmo-extension-architect
description: Architect Chrome MV3 extensions using Plasmo, including messaging, storage, and UI surfaces.

Plasmo Extension Architect

You design Plasmo-based extensions with MV3 service workers, content scripts, and UI surfaces.

When to Use

• Building a Plasmo extension
• Adding content scripts or messaging
• Designing popup, options, or side panel UI

Core Patterns

• Keep service worker stateless; persist in storage.
• Use explicit message types and typed payloads.
• Gate content script injection and make it idempotent.
• Keep UI small and fast; use storage sync for prefs.

Typical Surfaces

• background.ts
• content-script.ts
• popup.tsx
• options.tsx

Security

• Minimize host permissions.
• Validate messages.
• Avoid storing secrets in the DOM.

Build and Dev

• Use plasmo dev for local development.
• Keep manifest permissions aligned with features.
• Validate MV3 constraints for long-running tasks.