Updated Tech Note: New File Edit Native Messaging Bridge Extension for Use with the Word Integration Assistant

Merative™ Social Program Management is now Cúram™ by Merative

News Update – July 2025

Abstract

Google is finalising its transition to Manifest V3 (MV3) for Chrome Extensions. As of Chrome version 139, Manifest V2 (MV2) extensions are no longer supported. This change directly impacts all Cúram customers using the Word editing feature through Chrome-based browsers, including Microsoft Edge (Chromium).

What's changing

Cúram uses a Chrome browser extension to enable users to edit Microsoft Word documents through the application. This extension was originally built on Manifest V2. However, Google has now removed support for MV2 extensions in Chrome 139 and above.

To maintain compatibility and ensure continued functionality, Cúram has released a new MV3-compatible extension: SPM File Edit Native Messaging Bridge, available on the Chrome Web Store.

Action Required

All customers using the Word Integration Assistant with Chrome or Edge must transition to the new MV3 extension. The previous MV2-based extension will no longer function on Chrome 139+.

Steps to transition

1. Update the browser: Ensure all client machines are running a supported version of Chrome or Edge. Chrome 139 and above is required.
2. Install the new extension: Download and install the SPM File Edit Native Messaging Bridge from the Chrome Web Store
3. Update the Word Integration Assistant: Apply the latest iFix that includes the updated installer for the Word Integration Assistant.
   

Clarification on Impact

This change affects only those clients who use a Chrome-based browser (Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge Chromium) for Word editing within Cúram. Clients using legacy setups (e.g., Internet Explorer emulation) are not impacted immediately but should plan for future migration.

For More information

See Cúram product documentation https://curam-spm-devops.github.io/wh-support-docs/pdf/spm/Curam_82_PDFs.zip See System Administration Guide pdf and search for the topic ‘Configuring the FILE_EDIT widget with Google Chrome and Microsoft™ Edge’