---
title: "Overlay Text Box"
description: "A Chrome extension that overlays a text box and types into page fields character-by-character, useful for testing, demos, and more comfortable input flows."
canonical: "https://www.ayushrai.site/work/overlay-text-box/"
last-updated: "2026-10-16"
---

# Overlay Text Box

Source: https://www.ayushrai.site/work/overlay-text-box/
Markdown: https://www.ayushrai.site/work/overlay-text-box.md

A Chrome extension that overlays a text box and types into page fields character-by-character, useful for testing, demos, and more comfortable input flows.

Status: active. Type: open-source. 2024–present.

## Problem

Some workflows need simulated typing into arbitrary fields with control over pace and start/stop, browser defaults don't cover that well.

## Context

Manifest V3 extension with a resizable overlay, trigger near focused fields, and random delays for more human-like typing.

## Role

Author, design and implementation.

## Thinking

Keep the surface small: one job, clear controls, broad compatibility. Accessibility and testing use-cases beat novelty.

## Execution

Vanilla JS + HTML + Chrome Extension APIs (Manifest V3). Start/stop, visual feedback, and temporary field disable during typing.

## Outcome

Open-sourced on GitHub. Not claiming store download or accessibility certification metrics.

## Lessons

- Small tools teach a lot about permission models and DOM edge cases.
- Random delays feel nicer for demos but must stay optional and controllable.

## Technologies

- JavaScript
- HTML
- Chrome Extension API
- Manifest V3

## Links

- Demo: https://github.com/ayushrai-hub/overlay-text-box-extension
- GitHub: https://github.com/ayushrai-hub/overlay-text-box-extension

_Unverified award metrics are omitted. Wording matches the public site._