Claude in Chrome: browser extension not connected despite all processes and bridge pipe running (Windows)

Preflight Checklist

• [x] I have searched existing issues and this hasn't been reported yet
• [x] This is a single bug report (please file separate reports for different bugs)
• [x] I am using the latest version of Claude Code

What's Wrong?

Claude Chrome extension doesn't work from Claude Code on Windows:

• Windows 11, Claude Code v2.1.31, Extension v1.0.41
• All 3 processes running (--chrome-native-host, --claude-in-chrome-mcp, main)
• Bridge pipe claude-mcp-browser-bridge-NizarNakhe exists
• tabs_context_mcp always returns "not connected"
• Root cause of initial conflict with Claude Desktop native host was resolved, but connection still fails
• Persists across fresh Claude Code sessions

What Should Happen?

Claude Chrome extension should work from Claude Code.

Error Messages/Logs

Steps to Reproduce

1. claude
2. /chrome

"
Claude in Chrome works with the Chrome extension to let you control your browser directly from Claude Code. Navigate websites, fill forms, capture screenshots, record GIFs, and debug with console logs and network requests.
Status: Enabled Extension: Installed
❯ Manage permissions
Reconnect extension
Enabled by default: Yes

Usage: claude --chrome or claude --no-chrome

Site-level permissions are inherited from the Chrome extension. Manage permissions in the Chrome extension settings to control which sites Claude can browse, click, and type on.
"

1. > Go to code.claude.com/docs, click on the search box, type "hooks", and tell me what results appear

"
● Let me get the browser context first, then navigate to the docs page.
● Claude in Chrome[tabs_context]
⎿ Tabs read

● It looks like the Chrome browser extension isn't connected. To use browser automation, you'll need to:
"

Claude Model

Opus

Is this a regression?

No, this never worked

Last Working Version

_No response_

Claude Code Version

2.1.31

Platform

Anthropic API

Operating System

Windows

Terminal/Shell

PowerShell

Additional Information

chrome-extension-debug.md