Introduction
With iOS 15 Apple changed how you access Safari’s private browsing mode. Knowing how to access private browsing mode in Safari is important because, unlike a regular web browsing session in Safari, Safari doesn’t remember what pages you visit, your search history, or autofill information. Thankfully, while the steps to access the private browsing mode in Safari on your iPhone or iPad is a bit different, it’s not a huge headache. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.
Steps to Use Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad
- Launch the Safari web browser on your iPhone or iPad running iOS 15 or iPadOS 15 or later.
- Tap the icon featuring multiple boxes in the menu bar that will run along either the top or bottom of your screen. The current screen will minimize and you’ll see a different set of on-screen options.
- Tap “Tab” to open the Tab Groups menu.
- Tap “Private” in this menu. The Private Browsing Mode screen will be shown, with a note letting you know that in this mode Safari won’t remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your autofill information after the tab is closed. From here, you can tap either the “+” or “Done” icons to open the Safari private mode web browser.
You can close Safari Private Browsing Mode at any time by tapping the icon featuring multiple boxes, tapping “Private,” and then tapping “Tab.” You’ll return to the normal version of the Safari web browser on your iPhone or iPad.
Reasons to Use Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad
1. Keeping Browsing History Private
In today’s world, privacy is a significant concern, and keeping your online activities private is no exception. Safari’s private browsing feature is an excellent way to browse the internet without leaving a trail of your browsing history. By using private browsing, you can prevent others from seeing your search queries, website visits, and other browsing activities.
2. Preventing Websites from Tracking Your Browsing Behavior
When you browse the internet, websites collect various data about you, such as your location, browsing behavior, and other personal information. This information can be used to track your online activities and create targeted advertising. Safari’s private browsing mode prevents websites from tracking your browsing behavior, providing an additional layer of privacy and security.
3. Avoiding Targeted Advertising Based on Browsing History
Many websites use your browsing history to target advertisements specifically to you. Private browsing mode helps you avoid this by preventing websites from tracking your online activities. With Safari’s private browsing feature, you can browse the internet without leaving a trail of data that advertisers can use to target you with their ads.
4. Accessing Websites that May be Blocked or Restricted
Sometimes, websites can be blocked or restricted due to geographical location or network restrictions. Safari’s private browsing feature allows you to access these sites without leaving a record of your visit. By using private browsing, you can bypass the restrictions and browse freely without anyone knowing.
5. Signing in to Multiple Accounts without Interference from Saved Login Information
Many websites store your login information so that you can sign in easily in the future. However, this can be a problem if you need to sign in to multiple accounts on the same website. Safari’s private browsing feature allows you to sign in to multiple accounts without interference from saved login information. With private browsing, you can sign in to different accounts without logging out and logging back in each time.
