safari private browsing mode on ipad

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4 ways to open a private safari tab on iphone and ipad.

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Use the drop-down on safari's toolbar, use the pages button on safari's toolbar, use 3d touch or haptic touch, say a siri command.

Private Browsing mode in Safari lets you view sites without adding anything to your history on your iPhone and iPad. Here are four different ways to open a private tab in Safari when you need it.

When you use a private tab, Safari doesn't store your browsing history, AutoFill your information, suggest recent searches, or save cookies once you close the tab.

With iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 arrived several changes, including how you can use private browsing mode in Safari . That said, there are easier and lesser-known ways to quickly open a private tab in Safari on your iPhone or iPad.

Related: How Private Browsing Works, and Why It Doesn't Offer Complete Privacy

To get started, open Safari on your iPhone or iPad. On the iPhone, tap the "Pages" button (cascading squares icon) in the bottom-right corner.

You'll see a windows or webpages management screen with the grid of thumbnails representing the open tabs. The toolbar at the bottom will show the "Tab Groups" option with a drop-down button next to it. Tap the drop-down button.

Select the "Private" option from the menu that pops up to switch to the private browsing mode.

Select the "+" icon in the bottom-left to open a new private tab. Or tap "Done" in the bottom-left corner if you're opening a private tab for the first time.

On the iPad, you'll need to tap the "Sidebar" option on the upper-left corner.

When the sidebar panel slides open, choose the "Private" option to turn on the private browsing mode and open a new private tab.

Related: How to Always Start Any Browser in Private Browsing Mode

A quick way to open a private tab in Safari is to use the "Pages" button on the bottom toolbar on your iPhone.

Fire up Safari. Long-press or hard-press the "Pages" button (cascading squares icon).

Select the "New Private Tab" option with a hand icon next to it from the menu that pops up.

You'll need to follow the same method on the iPad by tapping the "Pages" button (four squares) in the top-right corner and then select "New Private Tab."

Related: How to Open Chrome's Incognito Mode with a Keyboard Shortcut

You can open a private tab directly from the Safari app icon using the hard-press or long-press gesture powered by 3D Touch or Haptic Touch feature. The 3D Touch is available only on the older (pre-iPhone 11) modes.

Long-press or hard-press the Safari app icon on the homescreen.

Select "New Private Tab" from the menu that pops up.

Follow the same on the iPad.

The iPhone models from iPhone 6s to iPhone X (including XS) support 3D Touch. All iPhone models from iPhone XR and higher support Haptic Touch.

Another neat method to launch a private tab in Safari is to use Siri commands on your iPhone and iPad. This method works if you have the "Listen For 'Hey Siri'" option enabled from the Settings app.

While your iPhone or iPad is unlocked, say "Hey Siri" and ask it to open a private Safari tab. Here's an example of what you can ask Siri:

Open a private tab in Safari

That's it! Have fun opening the private tab quickly in Safari on iPhone and iPad.

Related: How to Set Up and Use "Hey Siri" on iPhone and iPad

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How to Turn on Private Browsing on Your iPad

Keep others from finding out who you and your iPad visited on the web

University of Texas at Arlington

What Does Private Browsing Do?

Step-by-Step: Use Private Browsing Mode on iPad
Things to Remember

Other Ways to Stay Private While Browsing

Private Browsing Mode for iPad turns off web history in the Safari browser. When you're done using Safari and exit the private tabs, nobody can return to the Safari browser to see what you were doing.

These instructions apply to all iPads running iOS 5 or newer. However, with old versions of iOS, the instructions and images might differ slightly than how they're presented below in iOS 12 or in iPadOS 13.

However, these three things happen after you enable Private Browsing Mode for iPad:

The iPad doesn't keep track of the websites you visit or the searches you perform in the search bar.
Safari blocks certain types of cookies from external websites.
The border of the Safari app turns black to indicate that you're browsing privately.

Web browsing in private mode is limited when it comes to maintaining privacy. All this feature does is prevent others who access your iPad from viewing what you've browsed on the web. It does not make you "private" to the sites you visit.

How to Use Private Browsing Mode on iPad

Safari has a dedicated area just for private tabs that you can access by choosing Private . Tap the Private button to put Safari in incognito mode.

Tap the Tabs button.

Select Private .

Tap the Plus sign.

Use Safari as you normally would. It won't remember the pages you visit. Search the web or access a URL just like you can in regular mode.

Things to Remember About Private Browsing Mode

Private tabs on an iPad do not close automatically when you exit Safari. Tap the X in the upper-left side of the tabs to close them completely.

Switch between private and regular tabs at any time without either of them shutting down. To do that, tap the Tabs icon, then tap Private . This step toggles private mode on and off so that you can see the regular tabs but not close the private ones, and vice versa.

If you accidentally opened a tab in regular mode that you wanted to open privately, delete the iPad web history to clear it.

Private Browsing Mode is one method to browse the web anonymously . This special private mode has limits in that it only prevents search and web history from staying on an iPad.

Using private tabs in Safari, Chrome, or any browser isn't the same as using a VPN or hiding your IP address. Private browsing like this doesn't necessarily stop your ISP from monitoring you or prevent hackers from sniffing out your traffic .

To remain anonymously online—like when browsing the web, downloading files, and using torrents—requires a bit more work, such as using the Tor browser or connecting through a VPN service .

Something else you can do in Safari to help keep yourself from being tracked online is to delete cookies regularly, or completely block cookies . Websites use cookies to track your web habits and target you with specific ads.

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How to Use Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad

It’s very easy to use Private Browsing in Safari on your Mac. Click File > New Private Window . It is not immediately obvious how you do it on an iPad or iPhone. (The screenshots are from an iPad running iOS 13, but it works the same on phone too.) When activated, Private Browsing means that Safari does not remember any pages you visit or your search history or AutoFill information once a tab is closed.

Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad

Then tap the button labeled Private.

That then gets highlighted.

The menu bar is darkened when you’re in private browsing mode, and there is a note informing you too.

To stop using Private Browsing Mode, repeat these steps once again. You will notice the message goes and the address bar has a white background.

How to use Private Browsing with Safari on iPhone and iPad

Private Browsing is a useful feature built-in to Safari in iOS that limits what information is saved and shared as you browse the web. Let’s look at how to use Private Browsing on iPhone and iPad.

Here’s how Apple describes the feature for iPhone and iPad:

Private Browsing protects your private information and blocks some websites from tracking your search behavior. Safari won’t remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your AutoFill information.

Note: You may notice that some websites won’t function normally when using Private Browsing, so try turning it off if you’re running into issues.

How to use Private Browsing on iPhone and iPad

For iOS 15, read along here for how Private Browsing works

With iOS 14

Open Safari and tap the two square-icon at the bottom of your screen (if you don’t see the icon, tap near the bottom of the screen)
Tap Private
Now tap the + icon to open a new site in a Private window (you’ll also see any existing Safari windows in Private Browsing)
When you want to use a standard window, head back to the Safari page manager (two-square icon) and tap Private again to turn it off, then tap Done

If you turn on Private Browsing and haven’t used it before or don’t have any open windows this is what you’ll see:

You can quickly tell if you are using Private Browsing as the url/search bar will appear with a dark theme instead of white or gray for standard windows. Also, the white highlight around Private shown above on the right) means it is turned on.

Tap the + symbol at the bottom middle of the screen and start browsing. When you’re finished using Private Browsing, tap the double square-icon and tap Private and Done.

Your open Safari windows in Private Browsing and standard mode will remain open if you go back and forth between them without closing the windows.

Keep in mind that you won’t be able to utilize Handoff between your Private Browsing Safari windows and other Apple devices.

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How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode

This article explains how to use Safari's Private Browsing mode, which prevents your browsing history from being logged on your Apple devices. It's a useful feature if you're buying gifts online for friends or family, for instance, and you don't want anyone with access to your devices to find out what you're up to.

Using Safari's Private Browsing Mode

Enabling Private Browsing limits Safari in three important ways: It prevents the browser from creating a history of the pages you visit, it stops AutoFill information like website usernames and passwords from being remembered, and any tabs you open won't be stored in iCloud .

Also, for added peace of mind when you browse privately, Safari automatically prevents cross-site tracking , and requests that sites and third-party content providers don't track you as a rule. Additionally, the privacy mode stops sites from modifying any information stored on your iOS device, and deletes cookies when you close the associated tab.

To enable Private Browsing in Safari, follow these steps.

Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad , tap the Pages icon (consisting of two squares) to bring up the open tabs view, and then tap the profile icon, centered at the bottom of the screen.

When you're done browsing, return to the open tabs view, individually swipe any open tabs to close them if you wish.
Tap the profile icon again, then choose your regular profile at the top. Your private browsing session is now cleared from memory.

Clearing Existing Browsing History

When you clear your browsing history on a device running iOS 11 or higher, the same logs are cleared on any other devices signed into your ‌iCloud‌ account. The following methods also clear all cookies and web data on the device you're currently using, although AutoFill information remains unchanged.

The first method outlined below allows you to either limit the clearing of history, cookies and website data to a specific timeframe, or to delete your existing web history altogether.

Open Safari and with a tab open, tap the Bookmarks icon (the open book) located at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the tab at the top of the screen with a clock symbol, and you'll see a history of your browsing activity.
To remove instances of recorded visits to specific web pages, swipe leftwards across individual logs in the list and tap the red delete button that appears.
To delete the entire browsing history list, tap Clear .
Choose the timeframe to clear ( Last hour , Today , Today and yesterday , or All history ), choose the profile or select All Profiles , then tap Clear History .

The second method of wiping your browsing history might be considered the 'nuke' option, since it clears all history, cookies and website data on that device, regardless of when the sites were accessed.

Open the Settings app and scroll down to Safari in the list.

And that's it. Note that these built-in Safari features only make you safer from discovery by other people in the same household.

If your privacy concerns extend to a desire for enhanced security and anonymity online, consider subscribing to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that offers an iOS client or supports OpenVPN ( Private Internet Access and ProtonVPN are two popular options), and using a Tor-powered browser for iOS .

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Top Rated Comments

This article explains how to use Safari's Private Browsing mode, which prevents your browsing history from being logged on your Apple devices. It's a useful feature if you're buying gifts online for friends or family, for instance, and you don't want anyone with access to your devices to find out what you're up to.

I can really use this info, because I’m always “buying gifts”. ;) :cool:

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How to browse the web privately in Safari

Use Safari’s private browsing mode to surf the internet without having all of your information tracked and recorded. Private browsing prompts Safari to block websites from tracking your search behavior. The browser won’t remember any webpages you visit and your search history won’t get logged. Follow along with us to learn how to open Safari in private browsing mode on your iPhone, iPad and Mac.

A screenshot showing Apple's Safari browser running in private mode in iOS 15 on iPhone

How private browsing mode works

Browsing the internet in Safari’s private-browsing mode strengthens your online privacy. When surfing the web privately, website tracking is limited and none of your browsing history or login information is saved. This prevents others with have access to your device to view a list of websites you visited. Read: How to turn off Safari website tinting

Browsing certain websites privately in Safari ensures that those histories don’t pop up in everyone’s faces. For instance, you may want to perform a web search incognito or browse adult websites privately. As mentioned, private tabs don’t appear in Safari’s history. And to boost your privacy even further, private tabs also won’t show up in the list of synced tabs on your other devices.

Private browsing : Private browsing won’t remember your search history, show the pages you visit or reveal any automatically filled passwords. Private browsing also blocks some websites from tracking your search behavior.
Regular browsing : Public browsing isn’t private so it will in fact record your browsing and searching history, as well as your Autofill information like saved passwords.

Of course, Safari allows you to manually clear your browsing history and website data, including cookies, at any time. But with private browsing mode, you don’t need to do that because nothing gets remembered in the first place.

How to use private browsing in Safari for iPhone

To open a new private browsing tab on your iPhone or iPod touch, you must choose the Private tab group from the browser’s New Tab screen.

Open Safari on your iPhone or iPod touch with iOS 15.0 or later.
Touch the New Page icon in the bottom-right corner.
Hit “ ⌄ ” in the center of the tab bar at the bottom of the screen, then choose Private.
Touch Done to start browsing the web privately.

When in private browsing mode, Safari appears black or dark instead of white or gray. Specifically, the URL field turns gray and uses white text. You will also see a message near the top of the private window saying “Private Browsing Mode”.

When opening multiple private tabs, Safari nests them under a group titled “Private”.

A screenshot showing a new private tab group in Apple's Safari browser in iOS 15 on iPhone

To close a single private tab, hit the New Page icon to get thumbnails of all your private tabs, then swipe left each of the private tabs you wish to close. To exit private browsing mode, first touch the New Page button in the bottom-right corner, then choose Private . Now simply select a different, non-private tab group and then hit Done in order to switch to it.

How to use private browsing in Safari for iPad

Entering private browsing mode in Safari for iPad requires bringing the browser’s sidebar into view. The sidebar includes all the private tab options you need.

Open Safari on your iPad with iPadOS 15.0 or later.
Hit the sidebar icon near the top-left corner to open the Safari sidebar.
From the Safari sidebar on the lefthand side, choose the option labeled Private .

Doing so creates a new tab in a group dubbed “Private”. You can open multiple private tabs in this tab group. Private tabs don’t leave traces in the Safari history nor do they appear in the list of tabs on your other devices.

To hide your private tabs and exit private browsing mode, switch to a different tab group from the Safari sidebar. Don’t worry, any open private tabs you have will reappear the next time you invoke the private browsing mode.

Forcing mobile Safari to always open in private mode

Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t provided a toggle in iOS/iPadOS to force Safari to always open in private browsing mode similar to macOS Monterey. Thankfully, there’s a simple trick that’ll let you do just that.

The trick is in creating a new private tab like you normally would and leaving it intact when you exit Safari. Doing so makes your private tabs persist across sessions, with Safari automatically showing your private tabs the next time you launch the browser.

A screenshot showing a private mode message in Apple's Safari browser in iOS 15 on iPhone

If you exit private mode though, the next tab you open won’t be private. Safari will default to opening private windows each time you launch it.

How to use private browsing in Safari for Mac

You can open a new private browsing window in Safari on your Mac either by leveraging a dedicated menu option or invoking a special keyboard shortcut.

Open Safari on your Mac
Click Safari’s File menu, then choose New Private Window .

Doing so creates a new private window that has dark-colored borders, with the URL field set against the white text to distinguish it from regular Safari windows. You will also see a message near the top of the private window saying “Private Browsing Enabled”.

A Mac screenshot showing Apple's Safari browser on macOS Monterey with a regular window in the background and a private one in the foreground

To open a private window faster, hit Shift (⇧) – Command (⌘) – N on the keyboard.

Forcing desktop Safari to always open with a private window

You can also force Safari for Mac to automatically launch in private browsing mode.

Open Safari on your Mac.
Click the Safari menu, then choose Preferences .
In the Safari preferences window, select the General tab.
Click the menu next to Safari opens with , then choose A new private window .

Safari will default to opening in private browsing mode each time it’s launched.

A Mac screenshot showing preferences for Apple Safari on macOS Monterey with a setting to always open the browser in a new private window

A support document on the Apple website instructs people who don’t see this option to tick Close windows when quitting an app in System Preferences → General .

To close the current private window, simply close it. Switching to a non-private Safari window or opening one will also turn off private browsing temporarily until you click the private window again. Apple advises closing all private windows when you’re done using Safari’s private browsing mode in order to prevent other people from clicking Safari’s back and forward buttons to see pages you visited in the private windows.

What private browsing mode in Safari actually does

Wondering what all of the features of Safari’s private browsing mode are? Apple notes in support documents for Safari for iPhone , iPad and Mac that all of the following are true:

All of your tabbed windows are isolated from one another, so none of the websites that are open in your private window can see what other websites you might have open in the same window.
All of your login sessions and AutoFill information will be forgotten the next time the web browser is used.
Any of the webpages that you have open are kept out of iCloud so that other devices won’t have access to any of the webpages you have open in the private browsing window. Also, your recent searches won’t appear as suggestions when typing a search phrase into the URL field.
All of your search results from searches performed in a private browsing window are hidden and not stored.
Anything you download while in the private browsing window is not saved in your download history (downloaded items still end up in your Downloads folder or designated download location).
Private windows are not passed to other devices when Handoff is turned on.
All websites you visit are asked not to track you and Safari won’t remember cookie information from your current private browsing window when you begin your next browsing session.
Any plug-ins you have installed will also be limited to tracking your information from the private browsing window.

Use private browsing to surf the web anonymously

Your online privacy is important, and you should never give it up!

Most people won’t want to do all their web surfing privately. Browsing the internet publicly has its advantages, like better website personalization, the ability to view your browsing history and so forth. Read: How to reverse Safari’s polarizing redesign in iOS 15

Browsing certain websites privately in Safari ensures that those histories don’t pop up in everyone’s faces. Private browsing is useful even if you’re the only user of your device because you never know when you’ll be sharing a screen with someone in the future when you go surfing the web. For instance, you may wanna prevent others from knowing what you were looking up in the past such as when you were shopping for the holidays.

So whenever you feel like hiding all traces of your online activity in Safari, remember to switch to the private browsing mode before doing any web surfing.

VPNoverview.com Privacy Anonymous Browsing Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Ever wondered what Safari Private Browsing does exactly? Chances are it might not be giving you the level of online privacy you expect. Safari Private Browsing does have some perks, including:

Stopping Safari from remembering the websites you’ve visited
Not storing any new usernames, passwords, payments cards, and other information you input into private browsing
Forgetting any search engine queries you’ve run
Allowing you to save money by avoiding marketing cookies that might inflate prices

However, this is pretty much all the privacy that you’ll get with Safari Private Browsing. This incognito mode won’t cloak your IP address, encrypt your internet traffic, or make you safe on public Wi-Fi . Private browsing still leaves you pretty exposed to a lot of the risks that come with connecting to the internet.

For true online anonymity, you’ll need to use a VPN to change your IP address . We’re big fans of ExpressVPN, one of the fastest VPNs in the industry.

Below, you’ll find more information on how to use Safari Private Browsing on all your Apple devices, as well as more details on how this incognito mode does and doesn’t protect your privacy.

If you use a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, then chances are you’ve encountered Safari Private Browsing before. Whether you’re shopping for a partner’s gift or want to snoop on a long-lost colleague’s LinkedIn, there are many reasons why you might want to use private mode in Safari.

In this article, we answer the question, what is Safari Private Browsing ? We’ll also tell you what this handy tool can’t do to save you any embarrassment or risk to your online security.

What is Safari Private Browsing?

There’s a little more to this method of browsing than meets the eye, but we’ll go into specifics further down in this article. The point is, for a more private experience, you can use Safari’s incognito mode . You’ll be logged out of all accounts, and Safari won’t autofill user logins, passwords, or payment information. When you turn on private browsing, Safari won’t remember :

Your search engine history
Webpages you’ve visited
Browsing activity or history

You should, however, be aware of a major drawback of this tool on Macs: your browsing activity likely isn’t as hidden as you might think. Websites you visit can still see who you are and what you’re doing . You can read more about this in our general incognito mode article .

With Macs, Private Browsing information is logged in a different place, as well: your Terminal archive.

Beware the Mac Terminal archive

On Macs, there’s something called the Terminal archive , and it’s as scary as it sounds — well, for fans of privacy at least. It’s a treasure trove for snoops. The Terminal archive contains all of the websites you visit , whether you’re using Safari Private Browsing or not. This is because your Mac stores static images and other files when you visit a website for the first time. This makes future visits to these sites and page loading much faster, as your Mac pulls the relevant files from the Terminal archive.

This command-line function also lets you make systemic changes to your Mac . For most users, there’ll never be a need to make any changes in the Terminal archive, and you shouldn’t if you don’t know what you’re doing. You could end up breaking something critical in your computer’s operating system if you tinker with the Terminal.

Screenshot of iOS user interface, Access Terminal app

However, it is good to know that, even when you’re using Safari’s Private Browsing mode, your online activity is logged here.

Make your Safari Private Browsing truly private

By now, you might be asking yourself: how do I clear the cache on my Mac? Well, today’s your lucky day. Below, you’ll find a brief, step-by-step guide to clearing the cache on a Mac . Just make sure not to do anything else while inside the Terminal.

Open “ Finder ,” then search for “ Terminal ” in the search bar.
Run the Terminal application.
Paste the following text into the Terminal and hit enter: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

You may have to enter your Admin password to proceed. This is going to flush the DNS cache.

Remember that you shouldn’t do anything else inside of the Terminal application unless you know what you’re doing. It only takes a short command to nuke files or entire directories in this app forever! So, tread carefully.

Why You Should Use Safari Private Browsing on Macs and iOS

We can hypothesize all we want, but you’ve probably got a good idea of why you use private browsing. According to a 2018 research study , the most common reason people use private browsing is so others that are using a shared device can’t see what they’re doing. This comes down to protecting two things from other users of your device:

Their personal data
Their browsing activity

Fortunately, these are two things that Safari Private Mode manages to do wonderfully. Below, you can read more about what else Safari Private Browsing does for you .

Online privacy

Your browser won’t remember what websites you’ve visited. Anything you browse while you’re in private browsing mode won’t be remembered by Safari. So, if you start shopping online for gifts or a product that you find embarrassing, you won’t usually have to worry about your friends or family coming across your browsing history.
Safari won’t suggest usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and so on. You’ve probably noticed that Safari can remember usernames, passwords, credit cards, and other information when you use it for the first time. If you tell your Mac, smartphone, or tablet to remember those details, they’ll be automatically filled in the next time you visit the website. With Safari Private Mode enabled, these kinds of details won’t be stored: you won’t be prompted to save or autofill them at all.
Your search engine queries won’t be remembered . If you’ve been shopping for gifts or trying to self-diagnose, you probably don’t want other users of the computer to see what you’ve searched for . Normally, you’ll see suggested searches popping up in search engines like Google. Based on your past searches and clicks, some links might be colored purple instead of blue, too. In private browsing mode, these won’t appear, nor will any new searches be stored.

How to pay less with Safari Private Browsing

There’s more to private mode options than just online security. You could also save money with Safari Private Browsing, as you won’t be quoted higher prices for products you’ve already viewed. When you visit a website, cookies (small text files) are stored on your computer by your browser.

These kinds of cookies aren’t delicious or rewarding at all. Instead, they allow the site to track you and figure out that you’re interested in, for example, a particular holiday destination. This can result in you seeing higher airfares, hotel booking fees, and more. Just turn on Safari’s Private Browsing to s top cookies from being stored on your browser and avoid hiked prices.

How to Go Incognito on Safari

Safari Private Browsing on a Mac

Using Safari Private Browsing on a Mac is simple. If you’re reading this on a Mac, you can skip step one in our step-by-step guide below:

Open Safari on your Mac.
Click on “ File ” in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
Select “ New Private Window .” This will open a new private tab, but you can open as many private tabs in your tab bar as you need.

Screenshot how to open a New Private Window on Safari

It’s that simple. Now, any new tab you open within this new private browsing window will be a private browsing tab. Give it a whirl by opening some new private tabs and navigating to a website you frequently log into. You’ll notice that your username and password aren’t suggested for autofill as they usually would be .

Also, you’ll know that you’re in private browsing, as the URL bar will have a gray background rather than the usual white. Just remember to ignore or close your existing browser window if you had any open. If in doubt, check the background color of the URL bar.

Finally, to turn off private browsing in Safari , simply click the red cross in the corner of the browser window as you usually would.

Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone

Using Safari’s private browsing mode on an iPhone or iPad is fairly straightforward and could increase your privacy on an iPhone . If you’re running iOS 14 or earlier , simply follow the steps below:

Open Safari on your phone.
Tap on the “ Tabs ” button. That’s the two small squares in the bottom-right corner of your Safari window on iPhone.
A new option called “Private” should appear.
Tap “ Private ” and you’ll be taken to a blank screen confirming that you’re using Private Browsing Mode . You’ll notice that it’s using the same gray color scheme as Safari for Mac.
Lastly, click on the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a private browsing window.

Screenshots of iOS Access Private Browsing mode

If you’re using Apple’s latest iPhone update, iOS 15.1.1 , you’ll need to follow a slightly different (and hey, we’ll say it — more confusing) set of steps:

Tap on the “ Tabs ” button.
Tap where it says “ X Tab(s) ” – this number will reflect the number of windows you have open.
Tap “ Private .”
Now, you’re in Private Browsing mode and can click the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a new private window.

Screenshots of iOS Access Private Browsing mode latest Apple update

Again, turning off private browsing in Safari for iPhones or iPads is simple. Just press the same “ Private ” button that you used to enable the feature. Don’t forget, if you have multiple private tabs open, they won’t close automatically. Swipe each tab closed before you exit private mode if you want to leave no trace.

How to Set Safari Private Browsing as the Default

If you’d rather always browse privately, you can also set Safari Private Browsing as your default, so that it opens automatically whenever you open a new tab or window. Check out the step-by-step instructions below for a Mac :

Make sure your active application is Safari, then select “ Safari ” from your Mac’s toolbar at the top of your screen. Click on “ Preferences ” next, which can also be accessed using the keyboard shortcut “ Command ” + “ , ” (that’s Command, plus a comma).
Now, you should see the Privacy window for Safari. Click on the “ General ” tab.
Next to “Safari opens with”, select “ A new private window ” from the drop-down list.

While you can’t automatically use Safari Private Browsing by default on mobile , there are some options for minimizing what’s remembered, stored, or recommended. Here’s how you get there:

Open the “ Settings ” application.
Scroll down until you see “ Safari ” and tap on that option.

Now, you’ll have the choice to use a number of features. You can:

Disable search engine suggestions
Disable Safari suggestions specifically
Turn off autofill for Safari , either for personal information, payment information, or both
Disable “ Favorites “, which you can save in your Safari app’s home screen
Turn off “ Frequently Visited Sites “, which appear below your favorites

In this menu, you can also prevent cross-site tracking and block all cookies on the websites that you visit. In the event that you forget to launch Safari Private Browsing, these options should give you at least a little more privacy whenever you go online.

Is Safari Private Browsing Safe?

That last risk is surprisingly common on public Wi-Fi networks too. Bear in mind that private browsing doesn’t protect you against malware (malicious software) either, nor does it protect your payment information or other personal details . For true online anonymity and to improve your online security , you should give serious thought to using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) .

How to use a VPN with Safari Private Browsing

Using a VPN along with Safari Private Browsing should give you the online security you’re looking for. In addition to avoiding any logged browsing history or search history , you’ll be much harder to track and enjoy greater online anonymity. You can check out the many advantages of a VPN for more information. Want to get started right away? The following steps will only take a few minutes of your time:

Choose a VPN provider and create an account. We recommend checking out our list of the best VPNs if this is new ground for you. Alternatively, ExpressVPN is a market-leading VPN provider that we’re always happy to recommend.
Download and install the VPN software onto your Mac. You can also download ExpressVPN for mobile on your iPhone. Other premium providers like NordVPN, CyberGhost, and Surfshark all offer really slick mobile apps for iOS, too.
Log into your account , either in the desktop software or the mobile app.
Choose a VPN server in a country of your choice. If you’re purely interested in online security, then the location you choose isn’t too important (though some will be faster than others). However, if you want to save money on subscriptions , for example, you should give it some more thought.
Connect to the VPN server . When you connect, you’ll be changing your IP address to mirror the VPN server’s IP. It’s safe, legal ( in most countries ), and best of all, it’ll give you far greater online security than simply using Safari Private Browsing alone.

Safari Private Browsing is perfect for hiding those Christmas or birthday purchases from your family before the big day. It’s also a great way to save money on flights, hotels , or other purchases. However, it won’t do much for your online security. If you want truly private browsing , then use a VPN along with Safari private mode.

Interested in exploring other private browsers? Check out these articles below:

How Anonymous Is DuckDuckGo?
Is Vivaldi Browser Safe?
How to Set Up Firefox as an Anonymous Browser

Do you want to know how to enable private browsing on Safari? Are you wondering how much privacy Safari Private Browsing actually gives you? You’ll find these answers and more in our frequently asked questions below.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for Mac, follow these simple steps:

Make sure Safari is the active application that you’re using.
Click on File in the menu bar along the top of the screen.
Click on New Private Window to switch to private browsing mode.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for iPhone or iPad, the process is much the same:

Open the Safari application.
Tap on the Tabs icon (the two small squares in the lower-right corner of your screen).
Tap on Private to switch to private browsing.
Click on the small + (plus) icon to open a new private browsing tab.

Check out our full article for more information on Safari Private Browsing.

No. Safari Private Browsing, like any browser’s private mode, won’t protect you against a lot of online threats. Your IP address will still be visible to many third-party individuals and organizations. For example, your ISP will know what websites you’ve visited, and hackers could determine your location using your IP (though some private modes do limit location tracking). For true online privacy and anonymity, you’re safer using a VPN like ExpressVPN .

With Private Browsing, it’s more difficult for websites to track you, since cookies are cleared the moment you close the browser — but it’s not impossible. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider), employer, school, or college could still see your internet history . That is, unless you use a VPN along with the incognito mode.

Yes. The owner of an internet connection can absolutely check up on your browsing session if they have the right technical knowledge. Some routers can be set up to remember all URLs a device accesses. So, if you’re trying to fly under your parents’ radar, for example, they could potentially bust you using the family router, even if you’re exclusively using private browsing modes.

For true anonymity , you’ll want to use a VPN. With a VPN connection, all of your internet traffic is encrypted, which gives you far better anonymity and privacy than using private browsing on its own.

Chris Bluvshtein Author

Senior journalist.

Chris is a tech journalist with many years’ experience covering online privacy and cybersecurity. He’s also a published author and works as a Product Manager for some of the most innovative software development companies.

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Hi Chris , I’m finding while using private mode in safari my sound is being cut out and I have not been able to find a way to reconnect it. I use it on a iPad with a vpn and trend anti spam for protection as much as it can in private mode. I have not been able to find any reason as to why this is happening.

Hey Wayne, I've done a bit of digging, and I've found something that might be worth a try. It seems that recent versions of Safari have a built-in feature that can prevent audio from playing when you visit a website; it's enabled by default too. Give this a try and let me know if the issue goes away: 1. Open the Safari menu and click preferences 2. Click on the websites tab 3. Look for the setting: "When visiting other websites", which has a drop-down selection beside it 4. Change this setting so that it allows websites with media to play sound. You can alternatively add individual websites to this list if you'd rather have control over which ones can play sound by default.

Hi Chris Just tried your Terminal Commands, I am running macOS Monterey The Terminal Commands Below are not working dscacheutil -cachedump -entries Host dscacheutil -flushcache

You're right. Thank you for pointing it out to us! There is a new terminal command you'll now need instead: "sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder". We've adjusted the article to reflect this. Hope this helps!

Looking for a VPN?

Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services. Extensively tested by our experts.

How to Do Private Browsing on Your iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to keep your browsing history under wraps on your iPad? Private browsing is the way to go. It’s a nifty feature that keeps your online activities away from prying eyes. In just a few taps, you can surf the web without leaving a trace. Ready to learn how? Keep reading to become a private browsing pro on your iPad.

Step by Step Tutorial: Private Browsing on Your iPad

Private browsing on your iPad is like going undercover. It’s perfect for when you want to buy a surprise gift or explore sensitive topics without leaving a digital footprint. Let’s dive into how you can activate this feature.

Step 1: Open Safari

Open the Safari app on your iPad to get started with private browsing. Once you’ve launched Safari, you’re one step closer to private browsing bliss. Safari is the default web browser on iPads, and it’s where all the magic happens.

Step 2: Tap the Tabs icon

Look for the Tabs icon, which looks like two overlapping squares, and tap it. The Tabs icon is your gateway to managing your browsing sessions. It’s where you can switch between normal and private browsing modes.

Step 3: Select ‘Private’

Once the Tabs interface is open, find and select the ‘Private’ option to switch modes. After tapping ‘Private,’ you’ll notice the interface changes to a darker color scheme. This visual cue lets you know that you’re now in private browsing mode.

Step 4: Tap ‘+’ to open a new tab

With private browsing active, tap the ‘+’ button to open a new private tab. When you hit the ‘+’ button, a fresh private tab springs to life, ready for your undercover online adventures.

After completing these steps, your browsing won’t be saved in your history, and cookies won’t track you across the web. It’s like you were never there—digital ghost mode activated!

Tips for Private Browsing on Your iPad

Remember, private browsing doesn’t make you invisible on the internet. Your internet service provider and websites can still track your activity.
Private browsing isn’t just for secret shopping—it’s great for logging into accounts on shared devices without leaving your info behind.
When you’re done with a private session, close all private tabs to ensure the next person using the iPad doesn’t stumble upon your activity.
Private browsing can also help with troubleshooting website issues, as it doesn’t use cached data.
If you’re a fan of shortcuts, holding down the Tabs icon gives you a quick option to jump straight into private browsing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does private browsing on my ipad hide my activity from everyone.

Private browsing on your iPad keeps your activity hidden from other users of your device, but it doesn’t make you completely anonymous online.

Can I set Safari to always open in private browsing mode?

Unfortunately, Safari on the iPad doesn’t have an option to always open in private browsing mode. You’ll have to switch manually each time.

Will private browsing protect me from malware and viruses?

Private browsing doesn’t protect you from malware or viruses. It’s essential to use reliable security software for that.

Can I use bookmarks in private browsing mode?

Yes, you can use bookmarks in private browsing mode, but remember that adding new bookmarks will be saved and visible outside of private browsing.

Does private browsing affect my auto-fill information?

Private browsing doesn’t save auto-fill information during your session, so you’ll have to enter details manually each time.

Open Safari on your iPad.
Tap the Tabs icon.
Select ‘Private’ to switch modes.
Tap ‘+’ to open a new private tab.

Private browsing on your iPad serves as your personal cloak of invisibility in the digital world. It’s a simple yet effective tool for maintaining your privacy while browsing the web. Whether you’re planning a surprise or you’re just conscious about your digital footprint, knowing how to go incognito with private browsing can come in handy.

Remember, while private browsing can keep your local browsing history clean, it’s not a silver bullet for online anonymity. Be mindful of other ways your online activity can be tracked and consider additional privacy measures if necessary.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of private browsing on your iPad, it’s time to put it into practice. Enjoy the freedom and peace of mind that comes with a more private browsing experience. And if you ever find yourself needing a refresher, this article will always be here to guide you through the steps. Happy browsing!

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.

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How to use tabs and private browsing in Safari for iPhone and iPad

Become a tab master.

iPhone 14 Pro with Safari on screen held in front of computer monitor

How to open a new tab in Safari
How to switch tabs in Safari
How to close a tab in Safari
How to view recently-closed tabs in Safari
How to view websites from your other devices in Safari

How to use Tab Groups in Safari

How to use private browsing in Safari

Tabs in Safari let you keep multiple web pages open so you can switch between them efficiently or refer back to them whenever you want. You can open links in new tabs, so you don't lose where you're currently surfing, and even go into Private Mode to give you some privacy on the internet.

Safari has been around for a couple of decades now, and there's a lot to learn — especially for power users. As a first-party app, there are some excellent iOS features Apple's browser can offer, and it integrates seamlessly with your other Apple devices, making it the best web-browser to navigate seamlessly between iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

How to open a new tab in Safari on iPhone and iPad

Note: We have our Safari Tab Bar at the bottom of our iPhone screen, but all the steps in this guide work if you have yours at the top except from gesture-based manoeuvring. For more on moving the Safari address bar, check out our guide: How to change the Safari address bar on iPhone .

Open Safari
On an iPhone, tap the show pages icon in the bottom right of the screen (it looks like two squares). A quick swipe up from the Bottom Tab Bar on iOS 15 and newer gets you there even quicker.
Tap the + button.

How to open a new tab in Safari: Open Safari, tap the show pages icon, tap the + icon

Alternatively, tap and hold the show pages icon, then tap New Tab . For those who like gestures, a quick swipe to the left on the Bottom Tab Bar opens a new tab while a swipe to the right goes back to your previous one.

You can also open links you come across in a new tab by doing the following:

Tap and hold (long press) the link you want to open in a new tab.
Tap Open in New Tab (or Open in Background on iPad).

How to open a new tab in Safari: Tap and hold on a link in Safari, tap Open in New Tab

If you're on an iPad, you can open a link in a new window with Split Screen in Safari . Instead of tapping Open in Background, hit Open in Split Screen to have both tabs side by side -- great for when you're working on an essay for example.

How to switch tabs in Safari on iPhone and iPad

On an iPhone, tap the show pages icon in the bottom right of the screen (it looks like two squares). On iPad, this looks like four squares and appears in the top right of the screen.
Tap the tab you want to view.

How to switch tabs in Safari: In Safari, tap the show pages icon, tap on the tab you want to open.

You'll also benefit from Mac-like tab dividers beneath the URL field on the iPad's larger display. You can tap these to switch between tabs too.

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How to close a tab in Safari on iPhone and iPad

Tap the X in the top right of a tab to close it. (You can also swipe the card to the left to throw it away).

How to close a tab in Safari: In Safari, tap the show pages icon, tap the X on the corner of the tab you want to close.

While the above steps work on an iPad, it is easier to tap the X next to your tab in the toolbar to close it and save yourself an extra tap.

How to quickly close all tabs in Safari on iPhone and iPad

How to quickly close all tabs in Safari: In Safari, tap and hold the show pages, tap Close All X Tabs.

On an iPhone, tap and hold the show pages icon in the bottom right of the screen (it looks like two squares). On iPad, this looks like four squares and appears in the top right of the screen.
Tap Close All X Tabs .

How to view recently-closed tabs in Safari for iPhone and iPad

On an iPhone, tap the show pages icon in the bottom right of the screen (it looks like two squares). On iPad, you can skip this step.
Tap and hold the + button to bring up the Recently Closed Tabs menu.

How to view recently-closed tabs in Safari: In Safari, tap the show pages icon, tap and hold the + icon.

How to view tabs open on your other devices in Safari on iPhone and iPad

Safari's iCloud Tabs feature lets you quickly and easily access web pages you've already opened in Safari on any of your other Apple devices — iPhones, iPads, or Macs. It's a very useful tool for getting the most out of your Apple ecosystem.

On iPhone or iPad, tap the URL field in the Bottom Tab Bar .
Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see tabs open on your other devices.
Click on the tab you want to access from your other device.

How to view tabs open on your other devices in Safari: Tap on the URL field, scroll to the bottom of the page, and select the correct device from the drop down menu to see tis open tabs.

Each device linked to your iCloud account is sorted alphabetically -- if you don't see your iPhone, iPad, or Mac make sure you sign in with the same Apple ID credentials across all devices. Note: tabs created in Private Browsing mode do not appear in iCloud Tabs, so you won't see those.

In iOS 16 , Apple improved upon Tab-Groups in Safari. Tab-Groups are a great way to combine several tabs together and organize them to make them easy to find. The feature also saves you from leaving a ton of tabs open for later reference.

We have a dedicated guide on how to use Tab Groups in Safari , so check that out to get the most out of the organizing tool.

How to use private browsing in Safari on iPhone and iPad

Private browsing works just like regular browsing, except Safari won't cache your search terms or add the pages to your browser history -- this can be useful around the holiday period when gift shopping. Here's how to open private browsing on iPhone or iPad.

Tap Private or New Private Tab .

How to use private browsing in Safari: In Safari, tap and hold the show pages, tap Private or New Private Tab.

To exit private browsing mode, press and hold the show pages icon and tap (number) Tabs to return to your previously open regular tabs.

You can also start and stop a private browsing section from the sidebar menu on the iPad.

Become a tab master

Using Safari on iPhone and iPad is similar to using Safari on Mac , however, the interface has some differences to account for smaller screens and touchscreen input. With the above guidance, you'll be well on your way to browsing Safari like a pro on your iOS devices making sure you're getting the best iPhone and best iPad experience possible.

John-Anthony Disotto is the How To Editor of iMore, ensuring you can get the most from your Apple products and helping fix things when your technology isn’t behaving itself. Living in Scotland, where he worked for Apple as a technician focused on iOS and iPhone repairs at the Genius Bar, John-Anthony has used the Apple ecosystem for over a decade and prides himself in his ability to complete his Apple Watch activity rings. John-Anthony has previously worked in editorial for collectable TCG websites and graduated from The University of Strathclyde where he won the Scottish Student Journalism Award for Website of the Year as Editor-in-Chief of his university paper. He is also an avid film geek, having previously written film reviews and received the Edinburgh International Film Festival Student Critics award in 2019. John-Anthony also loves to tinker with other non-Apple technology and enjoys playing around with game emulation and Linux on his Steam Deck.

In his spare time, John-Anthony can be found watching any sport under the sun from football to darts, taking the term “Lego house” far too literally as he runs out of space to display any more plastic bricks, or chilling on the couch with his French Bulldog, Kermit.

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Your Guide to Private Browsing in Safari

Private browsing is often misunderstood, but it can be a helpful feature if you know what’s what.

Quick Links

What private browsing does in safari, how to use safari private browsing on iphone and ipad, how to use safari private browsing on a mac, how to disable safari private browsing on iphone and ipad, how to disable safari private browsing on a mac, key takeaways.

Private Browsing in Safari hides browsing history, autofill details, downloads, and locks tabs after inactivity.
Safari on Mac groups private and non-private tabs, while on iPhone it shows all tabs regardless of mode.
To use Private Browsing in Safari, identify it by a dark address bar, "Private" indicator, or "Private" next to the site URL.

Most browsers offer a private browsing mode that aims to keep the websites you view off the record. But what exactly does it do in Safari and how do you get the best out of it?

First and foremost, Private Browsing keeps the website pages you visit out of your History . The aim is to prevent someone else from seeing which pages you have visited if they have access to your phone or computer.

In Safari, Private Browsing does a lot more than just hide URLs. It also:

Prevents recent searches from showing up in your history.
Stops remembering details you enter in forms for autofill.
Keeps downloaded items from appearing in your Downloads list.
Locks private tabs after a period of inactivity.
Adds tracking and fingerprinting protection.

However, it’s important to note that Private Browsing does not stop you from being tracked altogether. Websites you visit will still be able to use various methods to track you, and will still have access to all data that you send them.

On macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, Safari groups private tabs together, and separates them from non-private tabs. On Mac, each Safari window is either private or non-private, and can have as many tabs as you want.

On iPhone, you can switch between private and non-private modes, each of which shows all tabs belonging to that mode.

You can spot when you’re viewing a private tab with these signs:

The address bar has a dark background. This may be less noticeable if you’re using Dark Mode .
On Mac, you’ll see a prominent Private indicator in the title bar.
On iPhone, you’ll see Private alongside the site URL at the bottom of your screen.

The steps to enter Private Browsing mode are nearly identical on an iPhone and iPad. The only difference is that the tab icon is at the bottom of the screen on iOS and the top on iPadOS.

Long-press the tab icon (two overlapping pages) on the bottom-right (iPhone) or top-right (iPad) of your screen.
Tap the New Private Tab menu item.
If locked, enter your passcode to unlock Private Browsing.

You can enter Private Browsing mode on macOS using either a menu item or a keyboard shortcut:

Open the File menu and choose New Private Window .
Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Cmd + n .
Use the browser as you normally would. Any tabs you open from this window will open in the same window, in private mode.

You may want to prevent users of an iPhone or iPad from using Private Browsing mode at all. To do so:

Open the Settings app.
Tap on Screen Time .
Under RESTRICTIONS , click on Content & Privacy Restrictions .
If not already enabled, press the toggle next to Content & Privacy Restrictions to enable.
Tap Content Restrictions .
Change the Web Content setting to Limit Adult Websites .

The option to enter private mode will now be gone.

On macOS, the wording of certain options differs slightly, but the overall process is near-identical to iOS:

Open System Settings via the Apple menu.
Click on Screen Time in the left panel.
Under the Restrictions section, click on Content & Privacy .
Click Content Restrictions .
Change the Access to Web Content setting to Limit Adult Websites .

Private Browsing will now be unavailable in Safari, although any existing private windows will stay open.

Of course, anyone can re-enable Private Browsing using the same process, in reverse. However, you can use Screen Time’s Lock Screen Time Settings option to set a passcode and enforce the setting permanently.

How to use Safari private browsing mode on an iPhone or iPad

If you would like to open a website on your iOS device without leaving a record, Apple’s native browser Safari includes a private browsing mode just for this purpose. When using Private Browsing, the search history of visited websites is not created in Safari. The mode also protects users’ information and blocks some websites from tracking their search activity. As Safari does not form a search history in the Private Browsing, therefore, the user’s auto-filled personal information is also safe.

However, users must keep in mind that this secure browsing mode does not protect their browsing history from the host of their network or websites. Thus, the network’s host or the website track user activity via their IP address.

Here is a simple guide on how to access Private Browsing mode on your iPhone and/or iPad.

How to Use Safari’s Private Browsing Mode on iPad

Launch the Safari application and tap anywhere on the screen to reveal the toolbar.

Lastly, to exit Private Browsing, tap the two overlapping rectangles icon, and then tap Private.

How to Use Safari’s Private Browsing Mode on iPhone

The process for enabling Private Browsing on an iPhone is the same as it is on the iPad, except the toolbar is at the bottom of the screen.

Open Safari and tap the screen once to reveal the toolbar.
On the toolbar, tap on the New Window icon.
Select the Private option in the lower-left corner of the screen.
then, tap on the plus (+) icon to open a new Private Window.

An important note to keep in mind is that if you switch out of Private mode without closing your windows, the browser will keep your private windows open in the background until you enable Private Browsing Mode again. Thus, to close all of your Private Browsing windows, you have to go back to Private mode, tap the New Window button, and tap the small “X” in the corner of each thumbnail to close it.

We hope this guide helped you out. Let us know in the comments section which other guides you will like.

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Asma is an editor at iThinkDifferent with a strong focus on social media, Apple news, streaming services, guides, mobile gaming, app reviews, and more. When not blogging, Asma loves to play with her cat, draw, and binge on Netflix shows.

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How To See Safari Private Browsing History

Software & Applications
Browsers & Extensions

how-to-see-safari-private-browsing-history

Introduction

Private browsing has become an essential feature for many internet users seeking to maintain their online privacy. Whether you're using Safari on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the ability to browse the web without leaving a trace of your activity can be invaluable. However, there are instances where you may need to access your private browsing history for various reasons, such as revisiting a website you previously viewed or tracking down a lost link. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of Safari's private browsing mode and explore the methods for viewing your private browsing history on both Mac and iOS devices.

Understanding the nuances of private browsing in Safari is crucial for effectively managing your browsing history and ensuring that your privacy remains intact. By gaining insight into the functionality of private browsing, you can navigate the digital realm with confidence, knowing that your online activities are shielded from prying eyes. Whether you're a seasoned Safari user or a newcomer to the world of private browsing, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate your private browsing history with ease.

As we embark on this journey through Safari's private browsing landscape, we'll uncover the steps required to access your private browsing history on Mac, iPhone, and iPad. Additionally, we'll provide valuable tips for managing your private browsing history, empowering you to maintain control over your digital footprint while harnessing the full potential of Safari's private browsing mode. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of private browsing history in Safari, empowering you to navigate the digital realm with confidence and privacy.

Understanding Private Browsing in Safari

Private browsing, also known as "Incognito" mode in other browsers, is a feature designed to allow users to browse the internet without leaving a trail of their online activities. When you engage private browsing in Safari, the browser does not store your browsing history, search history, or any information entered in forms. Additionally, any cookies, cache, or temporary files generated during the private browsing session are discarded once the session is closed.

It's important to note that while private browsing prevents the storage of your browsing history on the local device, it does not make you completely anonymous online. Your internet service provider, employer, or the websites you visit can still track your online activities. Private browsing is primarily intended to prevent the storage of browsing data on the local device and to maintain privacy from other users who may have access to the device.

When you open a private browsing window in Safari, it is visually distinguished from a regular browsing window. The browser interface typically adopts a darker theme, and a mask or "privacy" icon may be displayed to indicate that you are in private browsing mode. This visual cue serves as a reminder that your browsing activity during this session will not be saved locally.

One of the key benefits of private browsing in Safari is the ability to conduct research, access sensitive accounts, or explore content without affecting your regular browsing history or stored data. This can be particularly useful when using a shared computer or when you simply want to prevent certain websites from appearing in your browsing history.

It's important to remember that private browsing does not provide complete anonymity or protection from online tracking. If you require a higher level of privacy and security, additional measures such as using a virtual private network ( VPN ) or specialized privacy-focused browsers may be necessary.

By understanding the principles and limitations of private browsing in Safari, you can make informed decisions about when and how to utilize this feature to safeguard your online privacy while navigating the digital landscape.

Viewing Safari Private Browsing History on Mac

Accessing your private browsing history in Safari on a Mac involves navigating through the browser's settings to reveal the hidden records of your private browsing sessions. While private browsing is designed to leave no trace of your online activities, there are methods to uncover the history from these sessions.

Accessing Private Browsing History: To view the private browsing history in Safari on a Mac, you can follow these steps:

Open Safari on your Mac.
In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on "History."
From the drop-down menu, select "Show History." Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Command + Y.

Identifying Private Browsing Sessions: Once the history window opens, you can identify the private browsing sessions by looking for entries with the label "Private Browsing" and the date and time of the session. These entries represent the websites visited during private browsing sessions and are distinct from the regular browsing history.

Browsing and Managing Private History: You can scroll through the private browsing history to revisit specific websites or search for particular entries. Additionally, you have the option to clear individual entries or the entire private browsing history by right-clicking on the desired item and selecting "Delete" or "Clear History" from the "History" menu.

Understanding Limitations: It's important to note that the private browsing history in Safari on a Mac is only accessible from the local device and is not synced across your iCloud account or other devices. This means that the private browsing history can only be viewed on the specific Mac where the private browsing sessions occurred.

By following these steps, you can effectively access and manage your private browsing history in Safari on your Mac, providing you with the ability to revisit websites from previous private browsing sessions and maintain control over your browsing records.

Understanding how to view the private browsing history on your Mac empowers you to navigate your digital footprint with confidence, ensuring that you can access the information you need while maintaining control over your browsing history.

Viewing Safari Private Browsing History on iPhone or iPad

Accessing your private browsing history in Safari on an iPhone or iPad requires a slightly different approach compared to viewing it on a Mac. While private browsing is designed to leave no trace of your online activities, there are methods to uncover the history from these sessions on your iOS device.

To view the private browsing history in Safari on your iPhone or iPad, you can follow these steps:

Accessing Private Browsing History:

Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap the book icon at the bottom of the screen to open the bookmarks menu.
From the bookmarks menu, tap the clock icon, which represents your browsing history.

Identifying Private Browsing Sessions:

Once the history window opens, you can identify the private browsing sessions by looking for entries with the label "Private Browsing" and the date and time of the session. These entries represent the websites visited during private browsing sessions and are distinct from the regular browsing history.

Browsing and Managing Private History:

You can scroll through the private browsing history to revisit specific websites or search for particular entries. Additionally, you have the option to clear individual entries or the entire private browsing history by swiping left on the desired item and tapping "Delete."

Understanding Limitations:

Similar to the Mac, the private browsing history on your iPhone or iPad is only accessible from the specific device and is not synced across your iCloud account or other devices. This means that the private browsing history can only be viewed on the specific iPhone or iPad where the private browsing sessions occurred.

By following these steps, you can effectively access and manage your private browsing history in Safari on your iPhone or iPad, providing you with the ability to revisit websites from previous private browsing sessions and maintain control over your browsing records.

Understanding how to view the private browsing history on your iPhone or iPad empowers you to navigate your digital footprint with confidence, ensuring that you can access the information you need while maintaining control over your browsing history.

Tips for Managing Private Browsing History in Safari

Managing your private browsing history in Safari is essential for maintaining control over your digital footprint and ensuring that your online activities remain private. While private browsing is designed to leave minimal traces of your browsing history, there are several tips and best practices that can enhance your ability to manage and safeguard your private browsing history effectively.

Regularly Clear Your Private Browsing History : To maintain privacy and prevent the accumulation of private browsing data, consider clearing your private browsing history regularly. This can be done by accessing the history section in Safari and selecting the option to clear your private browsing history. By doing so, you can ensure that no residual data from private browsing sessions is retained on your device.

Use Private Browsing Wisely : While private browsing can be a valuable tool for maintaining privacy, it's important to use it judiciously. Avoid relying solely on private browsing for sensitive activities, especially if you require a higher level of anonymity and security. Consider utilizing additional privacy measures such as VPNs or specialized privacy-focused browsers when engaging in activities that require enhanced privacy.

Be Mindful of Shared Devices : If you share your Mac, iPhone, or iPad with others, be mindful of the potential impact of private browsing on the overall user experience. While private browsing prevents the storage of browsing history on the local device, it does not prevent websites from tracking your activities or your internet service provider from monitoring your online behavior. Exercise caution and consider the implications of private browsing in shared environments.

Educate Yourself on Privacy Features : Familiarize yourself with the privacy features and settings available in Safari. Explore options for managing cookies, preventing cross-site tracking, and enhancing your overall privacy while browsing. By leveraging the built-in privacy features of Safari, you can augment your privacy protection and minimize the need to rely solely on private browsing.

Consider Alternative Privacy Solutions : In addition to private browsing, consider exploring alternative privacy solutions to augment your online privacy. This may include using privacy-focused search engines, employing ad and tracker blockers, and integrating privacy-enhancing browser extensions. By diversifying your privacy toolkit, you can fortify your online privacy beyond the scope of private browsing.

By implementing these tips for managing your private browsing history in Safari, you can navigate the digital landscape with heightened privacy awareness and control. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to safeguard your online activities while leveraging the benefits of private browsing in Safari.

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How to view and clear your web browsing history in Safari on iPhone or iPad

Clearing your browsing history on iPhone and iPad in Safari has been a straightforward affair for years now.

Sometimes you want to clear your history to get rid of bloat and streamline your browsing experience. Other times, you're trying to hide a gift purchase from a loved one.

Apple makes it very easy to clear your browsing history on both the iPhone and iPad and we're here to show you how. Here's how you can make a fresh start in Safari and debloat your web browsing experience.

What you'll need

On the latest models, web browsing is smoother than ever before thanks to ProMotion in the iPhone 15 Pro and faster chipsets like the M2 found in the iPad Air 6 . If you're looking for a new Apple device, we highly recommend one of the following:

iPhone 15 Pro $999 at Apple

Grab the best iPhone available right now starting from $999. With a gorgeous titanium finish and the most powerful chip ever in an iPhone, you won't be disappointed with the 15 Pro. View Deal

iPad Air 6 13-inch | $799 $754 at Amazon

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How to find your web-browsing history

Viewing your web history in iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 is very easy to do, here's how:

In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button in the toolbar that's below the address bar.
Tap the History icon in the upper right corner. Here, you can view your entire web history.
Use the History search bar to find previously viewed pages.

How to clear your web browsing history

If the time calls to wipe most or all of your web browsing history in Safari, here's how to do it on both iPhone and iPad.

To note, the below steps will be the same if you attempt to wipe your web browsing history on an iPhone 15 Pro Max or an iPad Mini 6 , all Apple devices require the same steps.

In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button.
Select the History icon in the upper right corner.
Tap Clear and select how much history you'd like to clear: the last hour, the last day, 48 hours' worth, or all recorded history.

One more thing… A feature no one talks about

Privacy on the web matters more than ever in these modern times. Websites store the pages you click on, especially when you sign into a page that can contain personal information about you.

It's great to have a feature like this in Safari — but it would be good to have this automated in iOS 18 . If Apple's web browser could automatically clear history after 24 hours it would be very useful, as you wouldn't leave a trail behind.

Regardless, it's still a good feature, and one you should use every week.

To find tab history, open the Safari app on your iPhone or iPad, then tap and hold the back button at the bottom left.

iPhone User Guide

iPhone models compatible with iOS 17
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iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone SE (3rd generation)
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Setup basics
Make your iPhone your own
Take great photos and videos
Keep in touch with friends and family
Share features with your family
Use iPhone for your daily routines
Expert advice from Apple Support
What’s new in iOS 17
Turn on and set up iPhone
Wake, unlock, and lock
Set up cellular service
Use Dual SIM
Connect to the internet
Sign in with Apple ID
Subscribe to iCloud+
Find settings
Set up mail, contacts, and calendar accounts
Learn the meaning of the status icons
Charge the battery
Charge with cleaner energy sources
Show the battery percentage
Check battery health and usage
Use Low Power Mode
Read and bookmark the user guide
Learn basic gestures
Learn gestures for iPhone models with Face ID
Adjust the volume
Silence iPhone
Find your apps in App Library
Switch between open apps
Quit and reopen an app
Multitask with Picture in Picture
Access features from the Lock Screen
Use the Dynamic Island
Perform quick actions
Search on iPhone
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Travel with iPhone
Change sounds and vibrations
Use the Action button on iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
Create a custom Lock Screen
Change the wallpaper
Adjust the screen brightness and color balance
Keep the iPhone display on longer
Use StandBy
Customize the text size and zoom setting
Change the name of your iPhone
Change the date and time
Change the language and region
Organize your apps in folders
Add, edit, and remove widgets
Move apps and widgets on the Home Screen
Remove or delete apps
Use and customize Control Center
Change or lock the screen orientation
View and respond to notifications
Change notification settings
Set up a Focus
Allow or silence notifications for a Focus
Turn a Focus on or off
Stay focused while driving
Customize sharing options
Type with the onscreen keyboard
Dictate text
Select and edit text
Use predictive text
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Add or change keyboards
Add emoji and stickers
Take a screenshot
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Draw in documents
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Fill out forms and sign documents
Use Live Text to interact with content in a photo or video
Use Visual Look Up to identify objects in your photos and videos
Lift a subject from the photo background
Subscribe to Apple Arcade
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Camera basics
Set up your shot
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Record spatial videos for Apple Vision Pro
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Use Live Text
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See the world clock
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Merge or hide duplicate contacts
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Get started with FaceTime
Make FaceTime calls
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Take a Live Photo
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Hand off a FaceTime call to another Apple device
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Leave a call or switch to Messages
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Report a call as spam
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Add or remove a friend
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Get notified if you leave a device behind
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Add a third-party item
Get notified if you leave an item behind
Locate an item
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Remove an item
Adjust map settings
Get started with Fitness
Track daily activity and change your move goal
See your activity summary
Sync a third-party workout app
Change fitness notifications
Share your activity
Subscribe to Apple Fitness+
Find Apple Fitness+ workouts and meditations
Start an Apple Fitness+ workout or meditation
Create a Custom Plan in Apple Fitness+
Work out together using SharePlay
Change what’s on the screen during an Apple Fitness+ workout or meditation
Download an Apple Fitness+ workout or meditation
Get started with Freeform
Create a Freeform board
Draw or handwrite
Apply consistent styles
Position items on a board
Search Freeform boards
Share and collaborate
Delete and recover boards
Get started with Health
Fill out your Health Details
Intro to Health data
View your health data
Share your health data
View health data shared by others
Download health records
View health records
Monitor your walking steadiness
Log menstrual cycle information
View menstrual cycle predictions and history
Track your medications
Learn more about your medications
Log your state of mind
Take a mental health assessment
Set up a schedule for a Sleep Focus
Turn off alarms and delete sleep schedules
Add or change sleep schedules
Turn Sleep Focus on or off
Change your wind down period, sleep goal, and more
View your sleep history
Check your headphone levels
Use audiogram data
Register as an organ donor
Back up your Health data
Intro to Home
Upgrade to the new Home architecture
Set up accessories
Control accessories
Control your home using Siri
Use Grid Forecast to plan your energy usage
Set up HomePod
Control your home remotely
Create and use scenes
Use automations
Set up security cameras
Use Face Recognition
Unlock your door with a home key
Configure a router
Invite others to control accessories
Add more homes
Get music, movies, and TV shows
Get ringtones
Manage purchases and settings
Get started with Journal
Write in your journal
Review your past journal entries
Change Journal settings
Magnify nearby objects
Change settings
Detect people around you
Detect doors around you
Receive image descriptions of your surroundings
Read aloud text and labels around you
Set up shortcuts for Detection Mode
Add and remove email accounts
Set up a custom email domain
Check your email
Unsend email with Undo Send
Reply to and forward emails
Save an email draft
Add email attachments
Download email attachments
Annotate email attachments
Set email notifications
Search for email
Organize email in mailboxes
Flag or block emails
Filter emails
Use Hide My Email
Use Mail Privacy Protection
Change email settings
Delete and recover emails
Add a Mail widget to your Home Screen
Print emails
Get travel directions
Select other route options
Find stops along your route
View a route overview or a list of turns
Change settings for spoken directions
Get driving directions
Get directions to your parked car
Set up electric vehicle routing
Report traffic incidents
Get cycling directions
Get walking directions
Get transit directions
Delete recent directions
Get traffic and weather info
Estimate travel time and ETA
Download offline maps
Search for places
Find nearby attractions, restaurants, and services
Get information about places
Mark places
Share places
Rate places
Save favorite places
Explore new places with Guides
Organize places in My Guides
Clear location history
Look around places
Take Flyover tours
Find your Maps settings
Measure dimensions
View and save measurements
Measure a person’s height
Use the level
Set up Messages
About iMessage
Send and reply to messages
Unsend and edit messages
Keep track of messages
Forward and share messages
Group conversations
Watch, listen, or play together using SharePlay
Collaborate on projects
Use iMessage apps
Take and edit photos or videos
Share photos, links, and more
Send stickers
Request, send, and receive payments
Send and receive audio messages
Animate messages
Send and save GIFs
Turn read receipts on or off
Change notifications
Block, filter, and report messages
Delete messages and attachments
Recover deleted messages
View albums, playlists, and more
Show song credits and lyrics
Queue up your music
Listen to broadcast radio
Subscribe to Apple Music
Play music together in the car with iPhone
Listen to lossless music
Listen to Dolby Atmos music
Apple Music Sing
Find new music
Add music and listen offline
Get personalized recommendations
Listen to radio
Search for music
Create playlists
See what your friends are listening to
Use Siri to play music
Change the way music sounds
Get started with News
Use News widgets
See news stories chosen just for you
Read stories
Follow your favorite teams with My Sports
Listen to Apple News Today
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Browse and read Apple News+ stories and issues
Use Offline Mode to read downloaded News content
Manually download Apple News+ issues
Listen to audio stories
Solve puzzles in Apple News
Solve crossword and crossword mini puzzles
Solve Quartiles puzzles
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Save stories in News for later
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Get started with Notes
Add or remove accounts
Create and format notes
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Add photos, videos, and more
Scan text and documents
Work with PDFs
Create Quick Notes
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Organize in folders
Organize with tags
Use Smart Folders
Export or print notes
Change Notes settings
Make a call
View and delete the call history
Answer or decline incoming calls
While on a call
Have a conference or three-way call on iPhone
Set up voicemail
Check voicemail
Change voicemail greeting and settings
Select ringtones and vibrations
Make calls using Wi-Fi
Set up call forwarding
Set up call waiting
Block or avoid unwanted calls
View photos and videos
Play videos and slideshows
Delete or hide photos and videos
Edit photos and videos
Trim video length and adjust slow motion
Edit Cinematic mode videos
Edit Live Photos
Edit portraits
Use photo albums
Edit, share, and organize albums
Filter and sort photos and videos in albums
Make stickers from your photos
Duplicate and copy photos and videos
Merge duplicate photos and videos
Search for photos
Identify people and pets
Browse photos by location
Share photos and videos
Share long videos
View photos and videos shared with you
Watch memories
Personalize your memories
Manage memories and featured photos
Use iCloud Photos
Create shared albums
Add and remove people in a shared album
Add and delete photos and videos in a shared album
Set up or join an iCloud Shared Photo Library
Add content to an iCloud Shared Photo Library
Use iCloud Shared Photo Library
Import and export photos and videos
Print photos
Find podcasts
Listen to podcasts
Follow your favorite podcasts
Use the Podcasts widget
Organize your podcast library
Download, save, or share podcasts
Subscribe to podcasts
Listen to subscriber-only content
Change download settings
Make a grocery list
Add items to a list
Edit and manage a list
Search and organize lists
Work with templates
Use Smart Lists
Print reminders
Use the Reminders widget
Change Reminders settings
Browse the web
Search for websites
Customize your Safari settings
Change the layout
Use Safari profiles
Open and close tabs
Organize your tabs
View your Safari tabs from another Apple device
Share Tab Groups
Use Siri to listen to a webpage
Bookmark favorite webpages
Save pages to a Reading List
Find links shared with you
Annotate and save a webpage as a PDF
Automatically fill in forms
Get extensions
Hide ads and distractions
Clear your cache and cookies
Browse the web privately
Use passkeys in Safari
Check stocks
Manage multiple watchlists
Read business news
Add earnings reports to your calendar
Use a Stocks widget
Translate text, voice, and conversations
Translate text in apps
Translate with the camera view
Subscribe to Apple TV+, MLS Season Pass, or an Apple TV channel
Add your TV provider
Get shows, movies, and more
Watch sports
Watch Major League Soccer with MLS Season Pass
Control playback
Manage your library
Change the settings
Make a recording
Play it back
Edit or delete a recording
Keep recordings up to date
Organize recordings
Search for or rename a recording
Share a recording
Duplicate a recording
Keep cards and passes in Wallet
Set up Apple Pay
Use Apple Pay for contactless payments
Use Apple Pay in apps and on the web
Track your orders
Use Apple Cash
Use Apple Card
Use Savings
Pay for transit
Access your home, hotel room, and vehicle
Add identity cards
Use COVID-19 vaccination cards
Check your Apple Account balance
Use Express Mode
Organize your Wallet
Remove cards or passes
Check the weather
Check the weather in other locations
View weather maps
Manage weather notifications
Use Weather widgets
Learn the weather icons
Find out what Siri can do
Tell Siri about yourself
Have Siri announce calls and notifications
Add Siri Shortcuts
About Siri Suggestions
Use Siri in your car
Change Siri settings
Contact emergency services
Use Emergency SOS via satellite
Request Roadside Assistance via satellite
Set up and view your Medical ID
Use Check In
Manage Crash Detection
Reset privacy and security settings in an emergency
Set up Family Sharing
Add Family Sharing members
Remove Family Sharing members
Share subscriptions
Share purchases
Share locations with family and locate lost devices
Set up Apple Cash Family and Apple Card Family
Set up parental controls
Set up a child’s device
Get started with Screen Time
Protect your vision health with Screen Distance
Set up Screen Time
Set communication and safety limits and block inappropriate content
Set up Screen Time for a family member
Charging cable
Power adapters
MagSafe chargers and battery packs
MagSafe cases and sleeves
Qi-certified wireless chargers
Use AirPods
Use EarPods
Apple Watch
Wirelessly stream videos and photos to Apple TV or a smart TV
Connect to a display with a cable
HomePod and other wireless speakers
Pair Magic Keyboard
Enter characters with diacritical marks
Switch between keyboards
Use shortcuts
Choose an alternative keyboard layout
Change typing assistance options
External storage devices
Bluetooth accessories
Share your internet connection
Allow phone calls on your iPad and Mac
Use iPhone as a webcam
Hand off tasks between devices
Cut, copy, and paste between iPhone and other devices
Stream video or mirror the screen of your iPhone
Start SharePlay instantly
Use AirDrop to send items
Connect iPhone and your computer with a cable
Transfer files between devices
Transfer files with email, messages, or AirDrop
Transfer files or sync content with the Finder or iTunes
Automatically keep files up to date with iCloud
Intro to CarPlay
Connect to CarPlay
Use your vehicle’s built-in controls
Get turn-by-turn directions
Change the map view
Make phone calls
View your calendar
Send and receive text messages
Announce incoming text messages
Play podcasts
Play audiobooks
Listen to news stories
Control your home
Use other apps with CarPlay
Rearrange icons on CarPlay Home
Change settings in CarPlay
Get started with accessibility features
Turn on accessibility features for setup
Change Siri accessibility settings
Open features with Accessibility Shortcut
Change color and brightness
Make text easier to read
Reduce onscreen motion
Customize per-app visual settings
Hear what’s on the screen or typed
Hear audio descriptions
Turn on and practice VoiceOver
Change your VoiceOver settings
Use VoiceOver gestures
Operate iPhone when VoiceOver is on
Control VoiceOver using the rotor
Use the onscreen keyboard
Write with your finger
Keep the screen off
Use VoiceOver with an Apple external keyboard
Use a braille display
Type braille on the screen
Customize gestures and keyboard shortcuts
Use VoiceOver with a pointer device
Use VoiceOver for images and videos
Use VoiceOver in apps
Use AssistiveTouch
Adjust how iPhone responds to your touch
Use Reachability
Auto-answer calls
Turn off vibration
Change Face ID and attention settings
Use Voice Control
Adjust the side or Home button
Use Apple TV Remote buttons
Adjust pointer settings
Adjust keyboard settings
Control iPhone with an external keyboard
Adjust AirPods settings
Turn on Apple Watch Mirroring
Control a nearby Apple device
Intro to Switch Control
Set up and turn on Switch Control
Select items, perform actions, and more
Control several devices with one switch
Use hearing devices
Use Live Listen
Use sound recognition
Set up and use RTT and TTY
Flash the indicator light for notifications
Adjust audio settings
Play background sounds
Display subtitles and captions
Show transcriptions for Intercom messages
Get live captions of spoken audio
Type to speak
Record a Personal Voice
Lock iPhone to one app with Guided Access
Use built-in privacy and security protections
Set a passcode
Set up Face ID
Set up Touch ID
Control access to information on the Lock Screen
Keep your Apple ID secure
Use passkeys to sign in to apps and websites
Sign in with Apple
Share passwords
Automatically fill in strong passwords
Change weak or compromised passwords
View your passwords and related information
Share passkeys and passwords securely with AirDrop
Make your passkeys and passwords available on all your devices
Automatically fill in verification codes
Automatically fill in SMS passcodes
Sign in with fewer CAPTCHA challenges
Use two-factor authentication
Use security keys
Manage information sharing with Safety Check
Control app tracking permissions
Control the location information you share
Control access to information in apps
Control how Apple delivers advertising to you
Control access to hardware features
Create and manage Hide My Email addresses
Protect your web browsing with iCloud Private Relay
Use a private network address
Use Advanced Data Protection
Use Lockdown Mode
Use Stolen Device Protection
Receive warnings about sensitive content
Use Contact Key Verification
Turn iPhone on or off
Force restart iPhone
Back up iPhone
Reset iPhone settings
Restore all content from a backup
Restore purchased and deleted items
Sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone
Erase iPhone
Install or remove configuration profiles
Important safety information
Important handling information
Find more resources for software and service
FCC compliance statement
ISED Canada compliance statement
Ultra Wideband information
Class 1 Laser information
Apple and the environment
Disposal and recycling information
Unauthorized modification of iOS

Browse the web privately in Safari on iPhone

Visit sites privately

You can use Private Browsing to open private tabs that don’t appear in History on iPhone or in the list of tabs on your other devices. Tabs in Private Browsing aren’t shared with your other Apple devices, even if you’re signed in with the same Apple ID .

If you have a passcode set on your iPhone, Private Browsing locks when it’s not in use. Private Browsing may not lock immediately.

Swipe right on the tab bar at the bottom of the screen until Private Browsing opens, then tap Unlock.

Safari is open to Private Browsing. In the center of the screen are the words Private Browsing Is Locked. Below that is an Unlock button.

Note: Any Safari extensions you have installed that have access to browsing data are automatically turned off in Private Browsing. To turn on an extension in Private Browsing, see Use extensions .

Choose a search engine for Private Browsing

Tap Private Search Engine, then choose a search engine.

View the Privacy Report

Safari helps prevent trackers from following you across websites and viewing your IP address. You can review the Privacy Report to see a summary of trackers that have been encountered and prevented by Intelligent Tracking Prevention on the current webpage you’re visiting. You can also review and adjust Safari settings to keep your browsing activities private from others who use the same device, and help protect yourself from malicious websites.

Use iCloud Private Relay to browse the web with more privacy

When you subscribe to iCloud+ , you can use iCloud Private Relay to help prevent websites and network providers from creating a detailed profile about you. When iCloud Private Relay is turned on, the traffic leaving your iPhone is encrypted and sent through two separate internet relays. This prevents websites from seeing your IP address and exact location while it prevents network providers from collecting your browsing activity in Safari.

See Protect your web browsing with iCloud Private Relay on iPhone to learn how to:

Turn iCloud Private Relay completely on or off for your iPhone.

Turn iCloud Private Relay on or off for a specific Wi-Fi or cellular network.

Turn iCloud Private Relay off temporarily.

Set the specificity of your IP address location.

Temporarily allow a website to see your IP address

If a website relies on IP filtering, monitoring, or rate-limiting, it might require your IP address to be visible. You can turn off iCloud Private Relay temporarily for that website only.

Note: iCloud Private Relay isn’t available in all countries or regions. See the iOS and iPadOS Feature Availability website .

Tap Show IP Address.

Your IP address remains visible to that website until you leave the website or close its Safari tab. iCloud Private Relay remains on for other websites.

To turn off or pause iCloud Private Relay for all websites, see Protect your web browsing with iCloud Private Relay on iPhone .

Control privacy and security settings for Safari

Prevent Cross-Site Tracking: Safari limits third-party cookies and data by default. Turn this option off to allow cross-site tracking.

Hide IP address: Safari automatically protects your IP address from known trackers. For eligible iCloud+ subscribers, your IP address is protected from trackers and websites as you browse in Safari. If this option is off, your IP address isn’t hidden.

Fraudulent Website Warning: Safari displays a warning if you’re visiting a suspected phishing website. Turn this option off if you don’t want to be warned about fraudulent websites.

Camera: Choose whether Safari websites can use your camera without asking you first. Tap Camera, then choose Ask, Deny, or Allow.

Microphone: Choose whether Safari websites can use your microphone without asking you first. Tap Microphone, then choose Ask, Deny, or Allow.

Location: Choose whether Safari websites can use your location without asking you first. Tap Location, then choose Ask, Deny, or Allow.

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Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPad
Safari won't remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your AutoFill information. How to turn on Private Browsing. Open Safari on your iPad. Touch and hold the Tabs button. Tap New Private Tab. While Private Browsing is on, the Safari address bar appears black or dark instead of white or gray, and the buttons are black instead of blue.
Browse the web privately in Safari on iPad
Open the Safari app on your iPad. Tap , then tap Private. Follow the directions onscreen to unlock Private Browsing. To exit Private Browsing, tap , then tap a Tab Group. The websites you have open in Private Browsing stay open, and Private Browsing locks. To prevent Private Browsing from locking, go to Settings > Safari, then turn off Require ...
How to Use Private Browsing in Safari on Mac, iPhone, or iPad
Open the Safari app on your iPhone or iPad, then tap the Tabs button in the bottom-right corner to view your open pages. In the bottom-left corner, tap Private to enable private browsing mode. Then tap the Add ( +) button to open a private browsing window. Tap the Tabs button in the bottom-right corner.
How to Use Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone or iPad
To activate Private Browsing, first launch Safari. If you don't see the toolbar at the top of the screen, tap anywhere once to reveal it. Then tap on the "New Window" button in the upper-right corner. On Safari's window management screen, tap the "Private" button in the upper-right corner. After Private Mode is enabled, tap the plus (+) button ...
4 Ways to Open a Private Safari Tab on iPhone and iPad
Select the "Private" option from the menu that pops up to switch to the private browsing mode. Select the "+" icon in the bottom-left to open a new private tab. Or tap "Done" in the bottom-left corner if you're opening a private tab for the first time. On the iPad, you'll need to tap the "Sidebar" option on the upper-left corner.
How to Turn on Private Browsing on Your iPad
How to Use Private Browsing Mode on iPad. Safari has a dedicated area just for private tabs that you can access by choosing Private. Tap the Private button to put Safari in incognito mode. Tap the Tabs button. Select Private . Tap the Plus sign. Use Safari as you normally would. It won't remember the pages you visit.
How to Use Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad
Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad. To enter private browsing mode, tap the 'tabs' button in the top right-hand corner. Then tap the button labeled Private. That then gets highlighted ...
How to use Private Browsing on iPhone and iPad
With iOS 14. Open Safari and tap the two square-icon at the bottom of your screen (if you don't see the icon, tap near the bottom of the screen) Tap Private. Now tap the + icon to open a new ...
How to use Private Browsing in Safari on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap and hold the Tabs button. Tap [number] Tabs in the pop-up menu. You may also exit out of incognito mode in Safari on iOS 17 by completing these steps: Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap the Tabs button. Tap [number] Tabs or Start Page to show the Tab Groups list. Tap Private, then tap Done.
Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPad
Safari won't remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your AutoFill information. How to turn on Private Browsing. Open Safari on your iPad. Touch and hold the Tabs button. Tap New Private Tab. While Private Browsing is on, the Safari address bar appears black or dark instead of white or gray, and the buttons are black instead of blue.
How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode
To enable Private Browsing in Safari, follow these steps. Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad, tap the Pages icon (consisting of two squares) to bring up the open tabs view, and then tap the ...
How to use Safari private browsing to boost your ...
Open Safari on your iPad with iPadOS 15.0 or later. Hit the sidebar icon near the top-left corner to open the Safari sidebar. From the Safari sidebar on the lefthand side, choose the option labeled Private. Doing so creates a new tab in a group dubbed "Private". You can open multiple private tabs in this tab group.
Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing
Click on New Private Window to switch to private browsing mode. To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for iPhone or iPad, the process is much the same: Open the Safari application. Tap on the Tabs icon (the two small squares in the lower-right corner of your screen). Tap on Private to switch to private browsing.
How to Do Private Browsing on Your iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 3: Select 'Private'. Once the Tabs interface is open, find and select the 'Private' option to switch modes. After tapping 'Private,' you'll notice the interface changes to a darker color scheme. This visual cue lets you know that you're now in private browsing mode.
How to use tabs and private browsing in Safari for iPhone and iPad
A quick swipe up from the Bottom Tab Bar on iOS 15 and newer gets you there even quicker. Tap the + button. How to open a new tab in Safari: Open Safari, tap the show pages icon, tap the + icon (Image credit: iMore) Alternatively, tap and hold the show pages icon, then tap New Tab. For those who like gestures, a quick swipe to the left on the ...
Your Guide to Private Browsing in Safari
The steps to enter Private Browsing mode are nearly identical on an iPhone and iPad. The only difference is that the tab icon is at the bottom of the screen on iOS and the top on iPadOS. Long-press the tab icon (two overlapping pages) on the bottom-right (iPhone) or top-right (iPad) of your screen. Tap the New Private Tab menu item.
Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPad
How to turn on Private Browsing. Open Safari on your iPad. Touch and hold the Tabs button. Tap New Private Tab. While Private Browsing is turned on, the Safari address bar will appear black or dark instead of white or grey, and the buttons will be black instead of blue. How to turn off Private Browsing. Tap the Tabs button.
How to use Safari private browsing mode on an iPhone or iPad
Launch the Safari application and tap anywhere on the screen to reveal the toolbar. Tap on the New Window icon in the upper-right hand corner. Next, on the browser's window management screen ...
Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPhone
In iOS 17. Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap the Tabs button. Swipe to the Private tab group button, then tap the tab that you want to open. For additional privacy, you can choose to lock Private Browsing when you're not using it. When you lock your device, your private tabs in Safari will also lock. Then, when you unlock your device again, just ...
How to Turn Private Browsing Mode On and Off on Your iPad
To enable or disable private browsing mode on iPad, you need to use Safari browser and tap on the Private button in the Tabs menu. Private browsing mode on your iPad is limited in what it can hide, but using the Ghostery tracker & ad blocker extension for Safari blocks trackers and enhances your privacy. Learn how to turn private browsing mode ...
How To See Safari Private Browsing History
Accessing Private Browsing History: To view the private browsing history in Safari on a Mac, you can follow these steps: Open Safari on your Mac. In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on "History." From the drop-down menu, select "Show History." Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Command + Y.
How to use Locked Private Browsing in Safari
Next to Private Browsing, select "Require Touch ID to view locked tabs." Or unselect it, if you don't want your private windows to lock. When private windows lock. On iPhone or iPad, private windows lock when Safari isn't running in the foreground or when you switch from Private Browsing. They also lock when your device locks.
How to view and clear your web browsing history in Safari on iPhone or iPad
In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button. Select the History icon in the upper right corner. Tap Clear and select how much history you'd like to clear: the last hour, the last day, 48 hours' worth, or ...
Browse the web privately in Safari on iPhone
Open the Safari app on your iPhone. Tap . Swipe right on the tab bar at the bottom of the screen until Private Browsing opens, then tap Unlock. To exit Private Browsing, tap , then swipe left to open a Tab Group from the menu at the bottom of your screen. The websites you have open in Private Browsing stay open, and Private Browsing locks.

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What Does Private Browsing Do?

Other Ways to Stay Private While Browsing

How to Use Private Browsing Mode on iPad

Things to Remember About Private Browsing Mode

How to Use Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad

Safari Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad

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How to use Private Browsing with Safari on iPhone and iPad

How to use Private Browsing on iPhone and iPad

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How to Do Private Browsing on Your iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step by Step Tutorial: Private Browsing on Your iPad

Step 1: Open Safari

Step 2: Tap the Tabs icon

Step 3: Select ‘Private’

Step 4: Tap ‘+’ to open a new tab

Tips for Private Browsing on Your iPad

Frequently Asked Questions

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