Chrome Extension Developers: Understanding crbug 1173575 Non-JS Module Files Deprecation

The issue ‘crbug 1173575: non-JS module files deprecated’ in Chrome extensions arises when developers encounter errors related to non-JavaScript module files during debugging. This problem is significant because it disrupts the debugging process, making it challenging for developers to test and refine their code efficiently. Addressing this issue is crucial for maintaining smooth development workflows and ensuring the reliability of Chrome extensions.

Background

The error “crbug/1173575, non-JS module files deprecated” occurs when debugging JavaScript applications, often in Visual Studio Code. This issue is related to connectivity problems between VSCode and the Chrome browser during the debugging process.

The deprecation was announced as part of Chrome’s ongoing efforts to streamline and modernize its extension platform, focusing on enhancing security and performance. This change was implemented to encourage developers to use JavaScript modules, which offer better performance and security features compared to non-JS module files.

This deprecation notice has been a part of Chrome’s broader initiative to phase out older technologies and promote more efficient, secure coding practices.

Technical Details

The issue “crbug 1173575, non-JS module files deprecated” relates to the deprecation of non-JavaScript module files in Chrome extensions. Non-JS module files include formats like HTML, CSS, and other resources that are not JavaScript but are used within the extension.

Technical Aspects:

1. Non-JS Module Files: These are files that are not JavaScript but are essential for the functioning of a Chrome extension. Examples include HTML files for the extension’s UI, CSS files for styling, and other resources like images or JSON configuration files.

2. Deprecation Reason: The deprecation is primarily due to security and performance concerns. Non-JS module files can introduce vulnerabilities if not handled properly. By deprecating these files, Chrome aims to enforce stricter security measures and improve the overall performance of extensions.

3. Impact on Development: Developers need to migrate their extensions to comply with the new standards. This involves ensuring that all necessary resources are either bundled within JavaScript files or handled in a way that aligns with the updated security protocols.

4. Debugging Issues: The error often appears during debugging sessions in environments like Visual Studio Code, where connectivity issues or misconfigurations can trigger the deprecation warning.

Common Issues

Here are some common issues developers face due to the ‘crbug 1173575 non-JS module files deprecated’ error on Chrome extensions:

1. Connectivity Issues:

   • Scenario: Debugging in Visual Studio Code.
   • Error Message: crbug/1173575, non-JS module files deprecated error.
   • Example: Occurs when the network is set to “Offline” in the browser’s Network tab.

2. Debugging Problems:

   • Scenario: Launching Chrome debugger with a React app.
   • Error Message: crbug/1173575, non-JS module files deprecated.
   • Example: Chrome window fails to connect, and the debug console shows the error.

3. File Naming Issues:

   • Scenario: Displaying PDF files in an iframe.
   • Error Message: crbug/1173575, non-JS module files deprecated.
   • Example: Error occurs if the PDF file name contains a comma (,).

4. Development Server Issues:

   • Scenario: Running a development server with Create React App.
   • Error Message: crbug/1173575, non-JS module files deprecated.
   • Example: Error appears when the development server is not running or needs to be restarted.

These examples highlight the variety of scenarios where this error can disrupt development workflows.

Solutions and Workarounds

Sure, here are step-by-step solutions and workarounds for the ‘crbug 1173575 non-JS module files deprecated’ error in Chrome extensions:

1. Check Network Settings:

   • Open Chrome DevTools (F12 or right-click and select “Inspect”).
   • Go to the “Network” tab.
   • Ensure the network is not set to “Offline”.

2. Restart Chrome and Development Server:

   • Close all Chrome windows.
   • Restart your development server (e.g., npm start for Create React App).
   • Reopen Chrome and try again.

3. Update File Names:

   • Ensure there are no special characters (like commas) in your file names, especially for files displayed in iframes.

4. Recompile and Restart:

   • If using a build tool like Webpack, recompile your project.
   • Restart your development server.

5. Check Debugger Configuration:

   • If using VSCode, ensure your launch configuration is correct.
   • Example configuration for React:

     {
       "version": "0.2.0",
       "configurations": [
         {
           "type": "chrome",
           "request": "launch",
           "name": "Launch Chrome",
           "url": "http://localhost:3000",
           "webRoot": "${workspaceFolder}/src"
         }
       ]
     }
     

6. Clear Cache:

   • Clear Chrome’s cache by going to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear browsing data.
   • Select “Cached images and files” and clear the data.

7. Check for Updates:

   • Ensure Chrome and all related tools (like VSCode) are up to date.

These steps should help resolve the ‘crbug 1173575′ error.

Impact on Development

The deprecation of non-JS module files due to ‘crbug 1173575′ impacts the development process in several ways:

1. Debugging Issues: Developers may face connectivity problems when debugging in Visual Studio Code, leading to errors and requiring additional troubleshooting.
2. File Renaming: Non-JS files with special characters (e.g., commas) may need renaming to avoid errors.
3. Recompilation and Restarts: Frequent recompilation and restarting of development servers might be necessary, causing delays.
4. Configuration Adjustments: Adjustments in development environments and debugging configurations are required to ensure compatibility.

These factors collectively contribute to potential delays and additional work in the development process.

Future Outlook

The issue “crbug 1173575, non-JS module files deprecated” primarily affects developers debugging JavaScript applications, particularly in environments like Visual Studio Code. This error typically arises due to connectivity issues between the development server and the Chrome browser.

Looking ahead, the Chrome development team is likely to continue refining the debugging process to minimize such errors. Future updates may include improved error handling and more robust connectivity checks to ensure smoother debugging experiences. Additionally, developers are encouraged to keep their development environments and tools updated to benefit from these improvements.

The ‘crbug 1173575’ Error: A Guide for Developers

The ‘crbug 1173575’ error is caused by the deprecation of non-JS module files in Chrome, impacting developers working on JavaScript applications.

Steps to Resolve the Issue:

1. Inspect the network tab to ensure it’s not set to offline
2. Restart Chrome and the development server
3. Update file names without special characters
4. Recompile and restart the project
5. Check debugger configuration
6. Clear cache
7. Check for updates

These steps help resolve connectivity problems and debugging issues caused by the deprecation of non-JS module files.

Affected Developers and Environments:

The error affects developers using Visual Studio Code and requires adjustments in development environments and debugging configurations to ensure compatibility.

Staying Updated with Chrome’s Development Changes:

Staying updated with Chrome’s development changes is crucial to minimize such errors and benefit from future improvements.