Best Way for Shopify App Developers to Install JavaScript Chatbot Code on All Store Pages

[ThePilsen]

Hi fellow developers,

I'm developing a Shopify public app and need to install JavaScript code for a chatbot on every page of a store (e.g., index and product pages). This chatbot allows visitors to track orders and ask questions about products.

I was planning to use assets.json via the API, but realized the write_themes access scope is now restricted. To minimize work for the merchant, I need to insert <script>{code}</script> into something like layout/theme.liquid.

Should I implement this using theme extensions or app embeds? What’s the best approach to achieve this with minimal merchant effort?

Thanks for your insights!

[PageFly-Theodor]

Hi @ThePilsen ,
This is Theodore from PageFly - Shopify Page Builder App.

For your Shopify public app that injects chatbot code, choose app embeds over theme extensions for minimal merchant effort. Here's why:

• App embeds:
  • Easier setup - no extra installation for merchants.
  • Automatic updates.
  • Works with all themes (Online Store 2.0 and vintage).
• Theme extensions:
  • Requires extra installation step.
  • Manual updates by merchants.
  • Not compatible with vintage themes.

Best regards,
Theodore | PageFly