Building a Chrome Extension SaaS with AI in a Weekend
SaaS doesn’t need to be a website. I created an AI-powered Chrome extension that writes cold emails directly inside Gmail and turned it into a subscription product.
Why a Chrome Extension?
Built-in distribution via Chrome Web Store
Easy user activation (click-to-use)
Integrates where users already are
Tools & Stack
Frontend: Vanilla JS + Manifest V3
Backend: Firebase Functions
AI: OpenRouter
Billing: Gumroad
Key Features
Highlight text → AI rewrites into cold email
Auto-fills recipient name and context
Saves output to user dashboard (optional)
Build Steps
Base extension: Use V3 manifest + content scripts
Add popup UI: Clean UI with AI prompt input
Integrate OpenRouter: Inject prompt & handle API call
Deploy to Chrome Web Store
Monetization
Offer free 10 credits/day
Use Gumroad for license keys
Upgrade to remove limits
Build One Fast
Extensions are underrated. Combine with AI and solve one pain point. Test demand fast, and monetize with ease.
