If you’ve ever found yourself typing out a long-winded email, wishing you could just say it with a quick video—this guide’s for you. Video messages are faster, more personal, and less prone to being misunderstood. The Bombbomb Chrome extension promises to make video messaging dead simple, right from your browser. But does it? And how do you actually get started without wasting time on fluff or confusing options? Here’s what you need to know, step by step.
Why Use Bombbomb’s Chrome Extension?
Before we dive into setup, let’s be clear: Bombbomb isn’t the only video messaging tool out there. But if you want something dead simple, that works inside Gmail (and a few other spots), it’s worth a look. You don’t need a video editing degree or special equipment—just Chrome and a webcam.
Who it’s good for: - Salespeople who want to stand out in the inbox. - Customer service folks who need to walk someone through a quick fix. - Anyone tired of typing out the same explanation over and over.
A quick reality check: the extension isn’t magic. It won’t make you a YouTube star, and it won’t fix bad lighting or a slow internet connection. But it does make video messaging a whole lot less painful.
Step 1: Install the Bombbomb Chrome Extension
Let’s start simple. Here’s how to get the extension onto your browser:
- Go to the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for “Bombbomb.”
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Or, grab the official extension directly from Bombbomb’s website if you’re cautious about fake versions.
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Click “Add to Chrome.”
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You’ll see a pop-up asking for permissions. The extension needs access to your camera, mic, and some Gmail data. If that makes you uneasy, this isn’t the tool for you.
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Wait for Installation.
- Chrome will do its thing. When it’s done, you’ll see the Bombbomb icon up by your address bar.
Pro tip: If the icon doesn’t show up, click the puzzle piece (Extensions) and pin Bombbomb so it’s easy to find.
Step 2: Set Up Your Bombbomb Account
If you don’t have a Bombbomb account, you’ll need one. There’s no usable free tier—just a free trial, then you’ll have to pay.
- Click the Bombbomb icon in Chrome.
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You’ll get prompted to log in or sign up.
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Create an account or log in.
- If you’re new, you’ll need to enter your email and set up a password.
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Expect to get a confirmation email—check your spam folder if it doesn’t show up.
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Grant permissions.
- Bombbomb needs permission to access your Gmail (if you want to send videos inside Gmail) and your webcam/microphone.
Reality check: If you’re using a locked-down work laptop, you might need your IT team to approve the extension or unblock permissions.
Step 3: Get Comfortable With the Basics
Once you’re logged in, the extension adds a few things to Gmail and your Chrome browser:
- A “Record” button inside Gmail compose windows.
Look for a red circle icon near the formatting options. - A standalone pop-up when you click the Bombbomb icon.
This lets you record a video from any tab, not just Gmail.
What You Can Actually Do
- Record new videos: Right from Gmail or the extension itself.
- Send videos inside emails: No copying/pasting links unless you want to.
- Get notifications when someone watches your video: (But don’t expect perfect tracking; privacy settings on the recipient’s end can mess with this.)
What You Can Ignore
- The “PowerWheel” or “Advanced Tracking” features—unless you’re deep into sales automation. For normal folks, they’re just clutter.
Step 4: Record and Send Your First Video
Let’s get to the good part—actually sending a video message. Here’s what to do:
- Open Gmail and hit “Compose” (or start a reply).
- Click the Bombbomb icon (red circle) in the formatting bar.
- A new window pops up, showing your camera view.
- Make sure your camera and mic are working.
- If not, Chrome might be blocking access. Click the camera icon in your address bar to fix permissions.
- Hit “Record.”
- You get a 3-second countdown. Say your piece—short and sweet works best.
- Stop recording and review.
- You can re-record if you flubbed it. Don’t stress about perfection; authenticity beats polish.
- Click “Insert Video.”
- Bombbomb drops a thumbnail and link right into your email. You can add text above or below it, just like a normal message.
- Send your email.
A few honest tips: - Keep it under 90 seconds. People won’t watch a rambling monologue. - Look at the camera, not your own face on the screen. - Backgrounds matter less than decent lighting and clear audio.
Step 5: Use the Chrome Extension Outside Gmail
You’re not stuck with Gmail. Here’s how to use Bombbomb anywhere in Chrome:
- Click the Bombbomb icon in your browser (top right).
- Choose “Record Yourself” or “Screen + Cam.”
- “Screen + Cam” lets you explain things while sharing a tab or window—handy for walkthroughs.
- Record your video.
- Copy the link or thumbnail.
- Paste it into Slack, LinkedIn, or wherever.
Heads-up:
Some apps (like Outlook or certain CRMs) don’t play nice with Bombbomb’s previews. The link will work, but you might not get the fancy thumbnail.
Step 6: Track Who’s Watching (With Caveats)
Bombbomb says you can “know exactly who’s opening and watching your videos.” That’s only sort of true.
- Opens and views are tracked if the recipient’s email client allows images/trackers.
- Some folks block this by default.
- Don’t rely on it for mission-critical follow-ups.
It’s a nice-to-have, not gospel.
You’ll get notifications in your Bombbomb dashboard or via email.
Step 7: Troubleshooting and Real-World Gotchas
No extension is perfect. Here’s what trips people up:
- Mic or camera not working?
Double-check Chrome permissions. Sometimes Windows or Mac privacy settings block access. - Extension missing from Gmail?
Reload your browser, or check if another extension is conflicting. - Videos not embedding?
Some corporate email setups strip out images or links. Test with your own email first.
Pro tip:
If you’re running into weird tech issues, try disabling other extensions. Sometimes they fight for control in Gmail.
Step 8: A Few Power-User Moves (Optional)
If you’re sending a lot of videos, here are a couple of extra features that (actually) help:
- Reusable video snippets: Record a quick “welcome” or “thanks for booking” video once, and reuse it for multiple emails.
- Screen recording: Useful for walkthroughs, but don’t overuse it—simple webcam videos are faster and more personal.
- Contact tracking: Bombbomb can show you which contacts watch your videos most. Don’t get creepy about it.
Skip the deep automation stuff unless you’re in sales and really need it. For most people, it’s overkill.
Keeping It Simple
Bombbomb’s Chrome extension does what it promises: quick, no-fuss video messaging right inside Gmail and Chrome. Don’t let the bells and whistles distract you. Start with short, direct videos, focus on clarity, and don’t worry about being a video pro. If it helps you skip typing another long email, that’s a win—iterate from there.