Claude in Chrome extension not connecting - screenshots not working

Description

The "Claude in Chrome" browser extension is not connecting to Claude Code CLI. The tabs_context_mcp tool always returns "Browser extension is not connected" even after following all troubleshooting steps.

This prevents using screenshot functionality and all browser automation features.

Steps to Reproduce

1. Install "Claude in Chrome" extension from Chrome Web Store
2. Log in to claude.ai in Chrome
3. Restart Chrome
4. Run Claude Code CLI and attempt to use browser automation tools (e.g., tabs_context_mcp)

Expected Behavior

The extension should connect and allow browser automation (screenshots, page reading, etc.)

Actual Behavior

Every call to tabs_context_mcp returns:

Browser extension is not connected. Please ensure the Claude browser extension is installed and running...

Environment

• OS: Windows
• CLI: Claude Code
• Browser: Google Chrome
• Extension: Claude in Chrome (installed and enabled)

Troubleshooting Attempted

• Reinstalled the extension
• Toggled the extension off/on
• Restarted Chrome completely
• Verified logged into claude.ai with same account as Claude Code