Inspiration
As an avid reader of articles and news updates, I frequently encounter unfamiliar words and have to disrupt my flow by switching to a new tab to search for their meanings. I also often find myself needing quick answers to questions related to the topics I'm exploring. This experience inspired me to create QuickPeek—your instant, on-the-go search panel! With just a simple key combination, QuickPeek opens seamlessly, providing concise and relevant information without forcing you to leave your current page.
What it does
The QuickPeek Chrome Extension is an intuitive search tool designed to streamline quick searches without disrupting your workflow. Activated with a simple CTRL+Z shortcut, it opens a convenient search panel where users can input any question. Upon submission, QuickPeek swiftly delivers concise and relevant answers, keeping the user focused on their current page.
How was it Built
QuickPeek's foundation was built using HTML for the structure and layout, while JavaScript powers its core functionality and handles user interactions. CSS was used to style and enhance the look of the extension, bringing it to life.
Upon receiving user input, QuickPeek creates a session using Chrome's built-in Prompt API and sends the query to an instance of Gemini Nano in Chrome. The extension then swiftly displays the response, offering a seamless and efficient search experience.
Challenges
One of the challenges I encountered was enabling the Prompt API in Chrome Canary. The process was a bit confusing at first, as it involved navigating experimental features and ensuring the right configurations were in place. However, after some trial and error, I successfully enabled and integrated the API
Proud Accomplishments
I'm particularly proud of QuickPeek's clean, minimalistic design and the ease of use it provides. It allows users to search information without being overwhelmed by unnecessary elements. No unnecessary distractions!
Learnings
As this was my first attempt at a Chrome extension, I learned about how the extensions are made and how various functionalities are integrated into the extensions
What's next for QuickPeek - Instant Search Bar
Sky's the Limit! On a serious note, the QuickPeek extension can be updated with additional functionalities regarding handling of the desired length and detail of the answer.
