safari have windows

Safari for Windows 10: How To Get and Install It

Plus, why you shouldn't do this

If you use a Mac or an iPhone, it’s hard to pick a different browser over Safari. It’s incredibly fast, uses minimal resources, and respects user privacy. But if you also use a PC, you won’t have the luxury of installing Apple’s flagship browser on Windows since the Cupertino-based tech giant does not develop Safari for the Windows PC. That’s a major issue when your gear consists of cross-platform products.

What you can do is install an older version of Safari on Windows 10 or 11, although we highly advise against that due to compatibility and security-related issues. The best and safest option is to sync your browsing data from Safari to Chrome or Edge on your PC via iCloud for Windows. Setting up macOS on your PC and using Safari that way is another feasible option.

Download and Install Safari on Your Windows PC

Apple halted the development of Safari for Windows in 2012. However, the final version of the browser (Safari v.5.1.7) is freely available on the internet, so you can quickly download and install it on your Windows 10 or 11 PC. The problem? It’s terribly slow and dated, lacks compatibility with most web apps, and poses security risks. You also can’t sync your browsing data, so it’s not a solution if you want to access bookmarks and passwords.

Regardless, the steps below will walk you through downloading and installing Safari on your Windows 10/11 PC. But unless you just want to have a feel of how Safari looked almost a decade earlier, we recommend you stay away from it.

1. Download the Safari installer from a software download portal such as Uptodown , Filehippo , or TechSpot . It weighs in at 36.7MB. Unfortunately, Apple no longer supports Safari for Windows, so you can’t get it from an official source.

2. Double-click the downloaded SafariSetup executable file.

3. Select Next on the Safari Setup’s Welcome screen.

4. Accept the license agreement and select Next .

5. Specify if you want to add Safari as a desktop shortcut or not. Also, decide if you prefer it as the default browser on your computer (we recommend you don’t select this option). Select Next to continue.

6. Pick an install directory (or leave the default folder path) and select Install .

7. Wait for the Safari installer to finish installing Safari on your computer. Then, select Finish .

After installing Safari, you can choose to open it by double-clicking the Safari icon on the desktop. Or, you can open it by selecting Safari on the Start menu’s programs list. 

Despite being almost ten years old, Safari for Windows doesn’t look too out of place. To the top, you have the familiar URL bar (you can’t use it to perform searches, however), a Bookmarks strip underneath, and a dedicated Search bar on the left corner. By default, new tabs display frequently visiting sites in thumbnail format—you can use the Top Sites and History tabs to switch them and your browsing history. 

Selecting the cog-shaped icon at the right corner of the screen reveals the Safari menu, where you can choose to customize the toolbar, access your browsing history, launch a private browsing window, and so on. 

Selecting Preferences opens the Preferences pane, which provides options to modify the homepage, pick a default search engine, adjust privacy settings, manage extensions (although extensions support is non-existent), etc.

What the browser does not allow is to sign in with an Apple ID. That makes it impossible to sync your browsing data from an iPhone or Mac. Even if the functionality were present previously, Apple probably would’ve stopped you from signing in to it by now.

During our Safari tests on Windows, the browser started showing its age. Most websites took a long time to load, while web apps (such as YouTube and Google Maps) simply failed or prompted us to switch to a compatible browser. Other than for basic web browsing, it was practically useless. 

Safari for Windows also hasn’t received security updates in almost a decade, so we recommend that you don’t attempt to use it for any sensitive activities such as banking or shopping.

Sync Safari Browsing Data via iCloud for Windows

If your gear consists of a PC and iPhone or Mac, you can sync your passwords and bookmarks from Safari with Google Chrome and vice-versa by installing iCloud for Windows. That’s the most convenient method for accessing your browsing data on each platform. 

iCloud for Windows also offers password syncing for Microsoft Edge and bookmarks syncing for Mozilla Firefox. However, only Chrome receives support for both.

If you don’t have iCloud for Windows on your PC, you can get it via the Microsoft Store or the Apple website . If you already have it, make sure to upgrade it to at least version 12.5 or later (you can do that via the Microsoft Store’s Downloads and updates screen or by running the Apple Software Update applet).

With iCloud for Windows up and running, open the iCloud app and check the boxes next to Passwords and Bookmarks . You can also activate additional iCloud services such as Photos and Drive if you want.

Follow that by installing the iCloud Passwords on Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. The former lets you insert and save passwords to the iCloud Keychain . You can also use the iCloud Passwords app (which installs automatically alongside iCloud for Windows) to manage your passwords in Windows. On the other hand, the iCloud Bookmarks extension syncs passwords between Chrome/Firefox and Safari.

Download: iCloud Passwords (Chrome)

Download: iCloud Bookmarks (Chrome)

Download: iCloud Passwords (Edge)

Download: iCloud Bookmarks (Firefox)

Run Safari via a macOS Virtual Machine

If you want to use the most recent version of Safari on your PC (perhaps to test a feature or extension), the only way you can do that is by running macOS via virtualization software. However, the procedure is not convenient. For starters, Mac’s operating system is not natively supported by most VM software, so installation generally relies on workarounds relying on additional software. Also, it requires lots of free disk space and uses up system resources, not to mention that virtual machine guests generally run sluggishly compared to the host operating system.

If you still want to go ahead and install macOS, the easiest way to do that is by following the instructions within this macOS Virtualbox project on GitHub. It lets you install macOS Catalina as a virtual machine via a Bash script. We’ve condensed it into the following steps:

1. Download and install Oracle VM VirtualBox on your PC (it’s free).

2. Download and install Cygwin with the following dependencies (you can select them during installation).

3. Download the macos-guest-virtualbox.sh bash script from GitHub.

4. Open the Cygwin Terminal. Then, drag and drop the bash script and press Enter .

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up macOS as a virtual machine on your PC. 

After the setup procedure, you can open and use Safari by selecting the Safari icon on the Mac’s Dock. Learn about using and customizing Safari on the Mac . Before you do that, however, it’s a good idea to update macOS and Safari. To do that, open the Apple menu and select System Preferences > Software Update > Update Now .

iCloud for Windows Is the Most Convenient

Although it’s possible to download and install Safari on your Windows 10/11 computer, we recommend you stray away from it. The security risks alone make it impractical, and it’s not like you can use it for any serious web browsing anyway due to compatibility issues. 

Since the most likely reason you would want to install Safari involves syncing your passwords and bookmarks, using iCloud for Windows is the only viable alternative. But if you do have the time and just want to try out the latest version of Safari, your best option is to set up macOS as a virtual machine on your PC.

Dilum Senevirathne is a freelance tech writer and blogger with three years of experience writing for online technology publications. He specializes in topics related to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Google web apps. When he isn't hammering away at his Magic Keyboard, you can catch him binge-watching productivity hacks on YouTube. Read Dilum's Full Bio

Read More Posts:

Blazing fast. Incredibly private.

Safari is the best way to experience the internet on all your Apple devices. It brings robust customization options, powerful privacy protections, and optimizes battery life — so you can browse how you like, when you like. And when it comes to speed, it’s the world’s fastest browser. 1

Performance

More with the battery. less with the loading..

With a blazing-fast JavaScript engine, Safari is the world’s fastest browser. 1 It’s developed to run specifically on Apple devices, so it’s geared to make the most out of your battery life and deliver long-lasting power.

Increased performance

We’re always working to make the fastest desktop browser on the planet even faster.

Improved power efficiency

Safari lets you do more online on a single charge.

Up to 4 hours more streaming videos compared with Chrome 3

Up to 17 hours of video streaming 3

Best-in-class browsing

Safari outperforms both Mac and PC browsers in benchmark after benchmark on the same Mac. 4

• JetStream /
• MotionMark /
• Speedometer /

JavaScript performance on advanced web applications. 4

Safari vs. other Mac browsers

Safari on macOS

Chrome on macOS

Edge on macOS

Firefox on macOS

Safari vs. Windows 11 browsers

Chrome on Windows 11

Edge on Windows 11

Firefox on Windows 11

Rendering performance of animated content. 4

Web application responsiveness. 4

4K video streaming

See your favorite shows and films in their best light. Safari supports in-browser 4K HDR video playback for YouTube, Netflix, and Apple TV+. 5 And it runs efficiently for longer-lasting battery life.

Privacy is built in.

Online privacy isn’t just something you should hope for — it’s something you should expect. That’s why Safari comes with industry-leading privacy protection technology built in, including Intelligent Tracking Prevention that identifies trackers and helps prevent them from profiling or following you across the web. Upgrading to iCloud+ gives you even more privacy protections, including the ability to sign up for websites and services without having to share your personal email address.

Intelligent Tracking Prevention

Safari stops trackers in their tracks.

What you browse is no one’s business but your own. Safari has built‑in protections to help stop websites and data-collection companies from watching and profiling you based on your browsing activity. Intelligent Tracking Prevention uses on‑device intelligence to help prevent cross‑site tracking and stops known trackers from using your IP address — making it incredibly difficult to learn who you are and what you’re interested in.

Privacy Report

Safari makes it simple to see how your privacy is protected on all the websites you visit. Click Privacy Report in the Safari menu for a snapshot of cross-site trackers currently prevented from profiling you on the website you’re visiting. Or view a weekly Privacy Report to see how Safari protects you as you browse over time.

Customization

Putting the you in url..

Safari is more customizable than ever. Organize your tabs into Tab Groups so it’s easy to go from one interest to the next. Set a custom background image and fine-tune your browser window with your favorite features — like Reading List, Favorites, iCloud Tabs, and Siri Suggestions. And third-party extensions for iPhone, iPad, and Mac let you do even more with Safari, so you can browse the way you want across all your devices.

Safari Profiles allow you to separate your history, extensions, Tab Groups, favorites, cookies, and more. Quickly switch between profiles for topics you create, like Personal and Work.

Web apps let you save your favorite websites to the Dock on Mac and to the Home Screen on iPhone and iPad. A simplified toolbar and separate settings give you an app-like experience.

Safari Extensions add functionality to your browser to help you explore the web the way you want. Find and add your favorite extensions in the dedicated Safari category on the App Store.

Save and organize your tabs in the way that works best for you. Name your Tab Groups, edit them, and switch among them across devices. You can also share Tab Groups — making planning your next family trip or group project easier and more collaborative.

Smart Tools

Designed to help your work flow..

Built-in tools create a browsing experience that’s far more immersive, intuitive, and immediate. Get detailed information about a subject in a photo with just a click, select text within any image, instantly translate an entire web page, and quickly take notes wherever you are on a site — without having to switch apps.

Notes is your go-to app to capture any thought. And with the Quick Note feature, you can instantly jot down ideas as you browse websites without having to leave Safari.

Translation

Translate entire web pages with a single click. You can also get translations for text in images and paused video without leaving Safari.

Interact with text in any image or paused video on the web using functions like copy and paste, translate, and lookup. 6

Visual Look Up

Quickly learn more about landmarks, works of art, breeds of dogs, and more with only a photo or an image you find online. And easily lift the subject of an image from Safari, remove its background, and paste it into Messages, Notes, or other apps.

Surf safe and sound.

Strong security protections in Safari help keep you safe. Passkeys introduce a safer way to sign in. iCloud Keychain securely stores and autofills passkeys and passwords across all your devices. Safari also notifies you when it encounters suspicious websites and prevents them from loading. Because it loads each web page in a separate process, any harmful code is always confined to a single browser tab so it won’t crash the entire application or access your data. And Safari automatically upgrades sites from HTTP to the more secure HTTPS when available.

Passkeys introduce a more secure and easier way to sign in. No passwords required.

Passkeys are end-to-end encrypted and safe from phishing and data leaks, and they are stronger than all common two-factor authentication types. Thanks to iCloud Keychain, they work across all your Apple devices, and they even work on non-Apple devices.

Learn more about passkeys

Apple Pay and Wallet make checkout as easy as lifting a finger.

Apple Pay is the easiest and most secure way to shop on Safari — allowing you to complete transactions with Face ID or Touch ID on your iPhone or iPad, with Touch ID on your MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, or by double-clicking the side button on your Apple Watch.

Learn more about Apple Pay

With AutoFill, you can easily fill in your previously saved credit card information from the Wallet app during checkout. Your credit card details are never shared, and your transactions are protected with industry-leading security.

Same Safari. Different device.

Safari works seamlessly and syncs your passwords, bookmarks, history, tabs, and more across Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Watch. And when your Mac, iOS, or iPadOS devices are near each other, they can automatically pass what you’re doing in Safari from one device to another using Handoff. You can even copy images, video, or text from Safari on your iPhone or iPad, then paste into another app on your nearby Mac — or vice versa.

When you use Safari on multiple devices, your tabs carry over from one Apple device to another. So you can search, shop, work, or browse on your iPhone, then switch to your iPad or Mac and pick up right where you left off.

Save web pages you want to read later by adding them to your Reading List. Then view them on any of your iCloud-connected devices — even if you’re not connected to the internet.

iCloud Keychain securely stores your user names, passkeys, passwords, and credit card numbers and keeps them up to date on your trusted devices. So you can easily sign in to your favorite websites — as well as apps on iOS and iPadOS — and quickly make online purchases.

Designed for developers.

Deep WebKit integration between Mac hardware and macOS allows Safari to deliver the fastest performance and the longest battery life of any browser on the platform, while supporting modern web standards for rich experiences in the browser. WebKit in macOS Sonoma includes optimizations that enable even richer browsing experiences, and give developers more control over styling and layout — allowing for more engaging content.

Make Safari your default browser

Customize your start page, view your browsing privacy report, monitor your saved passwords, use apple pay in safari, view your tabs across all your devices, read the safari user guide, get safari support.

Geekifying Everyone

Here is how you can install Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11 (if you really want to)

Safari is a web browser developed by Apple that is known for its fast performance, elegant design, and privacy features. Safari is the default browser on all Apple devices, such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads. But what if you want to use Safari on a Windows PC?

In this article, we will explore the history of Safari for Windows, the reasons why Apple discontinued it, and the possible ways to install and run it on Windows 10 or Windows 11. We will also discuss the pros and cons of using Safari for Windows, and some alternatives that you may want to consider.

Table of Contents

The history of Safari on Windows

Safari was first introduced in 2003 as part of Mac OS X Panther, and it was based on the open-source WebKit engine. Safari quickly became one of the most popular browsers on the Mac, and it was also ported to iOS devices when the iPhone was launched in 2007.

In the same year, Apple announced Safari for Windows, a version of the browser that was compatible with Windows XP and Vista. Steve Jobs, the then-CEO of Apple, claimed that Safari for Windows was faster and more secure than other browsers, such as Internet Explorer and Firefox. Safari for Windows was also intended to attract more developers to create web applications for the iPhone, which did not support Adobe Flash at the time.

Apple continued to update Safari for Windows along with the Mac version, adding features such as a reader mode, extensions, and developer tools. However, Safari for Windows never gained much traction among Windows users, who preferred other browsers that had more market share and compatibility. According to StatCounter, Safari for Windows had less than 1% of the global browser market share in 2012.

The last version of Safari for Windows was 5.1.7, released in May 2012. Apple did not release Safari 6 for Windows, which was launched for Mac OS X Mountain Lion in July 2012. Apple also quietly removed the download links for Safari for Windows from its website, effectively ending the support and development of the browser for the Windows platform.

The reasons why Apple discontinued Safari for Windows

Apple never officially explained why it stopped making Safari for Windows, but there are several possible reasons. One reason is that Safari for Windows was not very profitable for Apple, as it did not generate any revenue from advertising or services, unlike Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Apple also did not have a strong incentive to promote its browser on Windows, as it did not have any other products or services that could benefit from it, unlike Google or Microsoft.

Another reason is that Safari for Windows was not very popular among Windows users, as it faced stiff competition from other browsers that had more features, extensions, and compatibility. Safari for Windows also had some technical issues, such as security vulnerabilities, performance problems, and a user interface that did not match the Windows design. Safari for Windows also did not support some web standards and technologies that were widely used by other browsers, such as HTML5 video, WebGL, and WebRTC.

A third reason is that Safari for Windows was not very important for Apple’s strategy, as it focused more on its own platforms and devices, such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads. Apple also invested more in developing its own web technologies and innovations, such as Intelligent Tracking Prevention, Safari App Extensions, and Web Inspector. Apple also wanted to differentiate its browser from other browsers that were based on the Chromium engine, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera.

The possible ways to install and run Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11

If you still want to use Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11, there are some possible ways to do so, but they are not recommended or supported by Apple. Here are some of them:

Download and install Safari 5.1.7 for Windows from a third-party website

This is the easiest and most straightforward way to get Safari for Windows, but it is also the most risky and unreliable. Safari 5.1.7 for Windows is an outdated and unsupported browser that may have security flaws, compatibility issues, and performance problems. It may also not work properly on Windows 10 or Windows 11, as it was designed for Windows XP and Vista. You may also encounter some malware or viruses when downloading the installer from an untrusted source. Therefore, we do not recommend this method, and if you decide to try it, do so at your own risk and discretion.

Install and run Safari for Windows using a virtual machine software

This is a more complex and resource-intensive way to get Safari for Windows, but it may offer a better and safer experience. A virtual machine software, such as VirtualBox or VMware , allows you to create and run a virtual computer within your Windows PC, where you can install and run another operating system, such as macOS or Windows XP.

You can then download and install Safari for Windows on the virtual computer, and use it as if you were using a real Mac or Windows XP PC. However, this method requires a lot of disk space, memory, and CPU power, and it may affect the performance and battery life of your Windows PC. You also need to have a valid license and installation media for the operating system that you want to run on the virtual machine. Moreover, you still need to deal with the limitations and drawbacks of Safari for Windows, such as the lack of updates and features.

Install and run the latest version of Safari using a virtual machine software

This is the most advanced and expensive way to get Safari for Windows, but it may offer the best and most up-to-date experience. This method involves installing and running the latest version of macOS on a virtual machine on your Windows PC, and then using the latest version of Safari that is available for macOS. iboysoft has a great guide that will provide you step by step instructions.

This way, you can enjoy all the features and benefits of Safari, such as the fast performance, elegant design, and privacy protections.

Depending on if you are willing or not willing to sail to the seven seas, You also need to have a compatible Mac computer that can run the latest version of macOS, and a valid Apple ID that can access the Mac App Store.

You need to note that Apple does not allow installing macOS on non-Apple hardware, and it may violate the terms and conditions of the software license agreement, so keep thatn in mind before you go hunting for an ISO.

Why you may want to install Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC?

I will say this again: installing Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11 is not a good idea (will be discussing why not in just a minute) but there are some legit reasons you may want to run Safari on your Windows PC:

• You can test and debug your web applications and websites on Safari, which may be useful for web developers and designers who want to ensure cross-browser compatibility and functionality.
• You can sync your bookmarks, history, passwords, and tabs with your other Apple devices, such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads, if you use iCloud and sign in with your Apple ID.
• You can experience the look and feel of Safari, which may be appealing to some users who like the minimalist and elegant design of the browser.
• You can use some of the features and innovations that are unique to Safari, such as the reader mode, the Safari App Extensions, and the Web Inspector.

And before you go ahead and install a virtual machine in your PC or install an unsupported version on your computer, please understand that:

• You may expose yourself to security risks and threats, as Safari for Windows is an outdated and unsupported browser that may have unpatched vulnerabilities and bugs.
• You may encounter compatibility issues and errors, as Safari for Windows may not support some web standards and technologies that are widely used by other browsers and websites.
• You may experience performance problems and crashes, as Safari for Windows may not run smoothly or efficiently on Windows 10 or Windows 11, especially on newer hardware and software configurations.
• You may miss out on many features and improvements that are available on the latest version of Safari, such as the Intelligent Tracking Prevention, the customisable start page, and the tab groups.

The alternatives to Safari for Windows

If you are looking for a web browser that can offer a similar or better experience than Safari for Windows, you may want to consider some of the alternatives that are available for Windows 10 or Windows 11. Here are some of them:

• Microsoft Edge: This is the default and recommended browser for Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it is based on the Chromium engine, which powers Google Chrome and other browsers. Edge offers a fast and secure browsing experience, with features such as Collections, Vertical Tabs, Immersive Reader, and Password Monitor. Edge also supports extensions from the Microsoft Store and the Chrome Web Store, and it can sync your data with your Microsoft account and other devices. Edge also has a built-in tracking prevention feature, which can block trackers and ads from websites, and a Kids Mode, which can provide a safe and fun browsing environment for children.
• Google Chrome: This is the most popular and widely used browser in the world, and it is also based on the Chromium engine. Chrome offers a reliable and versatile browsing experience, with features such as Google Translate, Chrome Remote Desktop, and Chrome OS. Chrome also supports thousands of extensions from the Chrome Web Store, and it can sync your data with your Google account and other devices. Chrome also has a built-in malware and phishing protection feature, which can warn you of dangerous websites and downloads, and a Incognito Mode, which can prevent your browsing history and cookies from being saved.
• Mozilla Firefox: This is one of the oldest and most respected browsers in the world, and it is based on the Gecko engine, which is developed by Mozilla. Firefox offers a fast and private browsing experience, with features such as Firefox Monitor, Firefox Send, and Firefox Lockwise. Firefox also supports extensions from the Firefox Add-ons Store, and it can sync your data with your Firefox account and other devices. Firefox also has a built-in Enhanced Tracking Protection feature, which can block trackers, ads, and fingerprinters from websites, and a Private Browsing Mode, which can erase your browsing history and cookies after you close the window.
• Opera : This is a browser that is known for its innovative and unique features, and it is also based on the Chromium engine. Opera offers a smooth and convenient browsing experience, with features such as Opera Turbo, Opera Flow, and Opera GX. Opera also supports extensions from the Opera Add-ons Store and the Chrome Web Store, and it can sync your data with your Opera account and other devices. Opera also has a built-in ad blocker and VPN feature, which can block ads and trackers from websites, and hide your IP address and location from prying eyes, and a Snapshot Mode, which can capture and edit screenshots of web pages.

The conclusion

Safari for Windows was a web browser that was developed by Apple and released in 2007, but it was discontinued in 2012. Safari for Windows was not very successful or popular among Windows users, as it faced many challenges and limitations, such as security risks, compatibility issues, and performance problems. Safari for Windows was also not very relevant or important for Apple’s strategy, as it focused more on its own platforms and devices, and its own web technologies and innovations.

If you want to use Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11, there are some possible ways to do so, but they are not recommended or supported by Apple.

We hope this article has helped you understand how to install Safari on Windows 10 or Windows 11, and what are the pros and cons of using it. Thank you for reading, and happy browsing! 

Tags: apple mac safari windows

Saurabh Tripathi

Saurabh is Founder of Getting Geek and is an all around computer nerd. Currently Saurabh is at his home messing up with some ugly looking code. Send him your Questions, Suggestions and Pizzas at [email protected]

• Next The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Digital Marketing Agency
• Previous How to Download YouTube Videos on Mac Easily

You may also like...

Galaxy S7 And S7 Edge Are Finally Getting Android 7.0 Nougat Update

Micromax Has Launched A 4G Android Phone, But You Shouldn’t Probably Buy It

Xiaomi’ Upcoming Phone Codenamed ‘Riva’ Just Got Leaked on Geekbench

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Getting Geek

• About Getting Geek
• Advertise on Getting Geek
• Ask A Question
• Cookie Policy
• Disclaimers
• Privacy Policy
• Subscribe for Getting Geek’s Newsletter
• Write for Getting Geek
• Recent Posts
• Popular Posts
• Recent Comments

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Digital Marketing Agency

March 21, 2024

Windows / Apple / Internet / Microsoft

December 29, 2023

How to Download YouTube Videos on Mac Easily

December 28, 2023

Computers / Windows

Remembering Why Windows Vista Failed?

January 2, 2023

PCs / Apple

Here Are the 5 Best Free Video Players for Mac OS X (2023 Edition)

August 21, 2018

These Are The 6 Best Music Players For Windows 10 in 2018

June 12, 2016

Groove Music in Windows 10 Sucks. Here are your alternatives

September 17, 2015

Unroll.Me is the best way to unsubscribe Emails in bulk

October 10, 2015

Here are 4 Best Image Viewers For Windows 10

May 2, 2016

Windows Phone is Best If You Are Concerned About Security and Hate iPhone

December 5, 2015

• alternatives android apple apps chrome entertainment facebook featured gadgets galaxy galaxy s8 games gaming google guides hardware HTC infographic internet ios iphones lenovo lg Microsoft motorola news nokia oneplus pixel productivity samsung security smartphone smartphones software sony tablet Tech Explained vr whatsapp windows windows 10 wrike xiaomi youtube

Safari for Windows – How to Download and Install Apple Safari Browser on Windows PC

Apple’s software has been one of the best when it comes to usability and smoothness. Many of its apps like the Safari browser is developed to work flawlessly with macOS. But many Windows users miss out as the Safari for Windows is not supported currently. This browser is specifically designed for Apple’s software and works pretty much smoothly on every Apple device such as the iPhone, iPad, Macbooks, and more.

With Safari browser’s latest updates like quick notes, inline dictionary and more, it has become popular amongst many users and grabs the attention of Windows users. So, in this article, I am going to show you how to use Safari on Windows PC and laptop .

How to Download and Install Safari on Windows

Before we move on, let’s talk about what happened to Safari development for Windows. Earlier, Apple supported Safari for Windows users up until macOS X 10.8 Mountain Lion was launched. The reason is still unknown but some speculations claim that Safari was based on a completely different architecture than any normal Windows app. So it would be really buggy to operate. Other say that Apple wants to keep some of its apps exclusive for macOS and iOS devices.

Whatever the reason may be, the older version of Safari for Windows is still available to download. But, it is only recommended if you are a developer or just want to try it out . The reason is that being the older version, it does not support the latest features while also being not as secure as the latest version which might hamper with your privacy .

Coming back to the tutorial, there are two ways through which you can download Safari for Windows systems:

• Using the last supported version of Safari browser.
• Using a cross-browser testing tool.

So without wasting any more time, let’s see how we can start using Safari on Windows PCs and laptops.

Method 1: Download and Install Safari on Windows using .exe file

As I said, this downloadable file is the last supported version and would not have the latest features or the security measures. Use this method only if you are a developer and wants to see how your project UI looks on the old version of Safari. It is not recommended to use as regular web browsers for your Windows .  Now with that out of the way, let’s get to the steps:

1. Download the setup of the Safari browser from this link . By clicking this, it will automatically download the executable file on your system.

2. Double click the SafariSetup.exe file and click on the Next > button to start the installation process.

3. You will now have options to make Safari your default browser, install Bonjour and automatically update Safari. Make sure to uncheck these three options as you would not use this as a daily browser. Click Next > again to continue.

5.  After clicking next, it will install Safari browser on your Windows machine and also creates a desktop shortcut for Safari.

6. Double click the icon on the desktop to open Safari browser. In order to test the browser and speed, enter any website URL in the address bar and press Enter .

7. As you can see, the Safari browser is fully functional and working properly. You have now successfully installed Safari for Windows and it is ready to use.

It is very clear from screenshots, the Safari version is way older than what is currently available. Moreover, some website has some visual components that work best with the newest version of any browser. If you look closely, the “Search box placeholder” of our website is out of place. Like this, many websites would have minor visual differences which might hamper your browsing experience.

Also Read: How to Hide Desktop Icons on MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air

2. Using Safari on Windows with Cross-Browser Testing Tool

Cross-Browser Testing tool is pretty useful for developers and designers who need to test their websites on multiple web browser versions without actually installing them on their machine. With the help of these tools, we can use the latest version of Safari browser on Windows.

1. Open Experitest’s Cross-Browser testing tool website using either Google Chrome or Firefox.

2. Start your free trial by clicking on the “ Free Trial ” button.

3. It will take you to sign up page where you need to create an account or login directly with your Google or LinkedIn accounts.

4. Now enter your mobile number and click Continue. This will send you a One-Time Password (OTP) to verify your mobile number.

5. After entering your mobile number, you will be redirected to the dashboard where you will see a list of devices available for testing.

6. Now click on “ Browsers & Emulators ” to see the list of available browsers.

7. Select Safari and the version you want to use.

8. This will open a virtual session of Safari on your Windows browser. This session is completely free for the first 30 minutes.

9. You can end the session by clicking the large red “ End Session ” button.

After using the cross-browser testing tool, I can say it does have all the latest features of Safari but it is not as smooth as a browser would be. The best of this tool is, you can record the entire screen during the session. The major drawback is that it is a monthly-paid service where the user has to pay to use the features. For a developer or a designer, it is okay. But for users who just want to use the browser, it might go out of budget. And I must say, using a cross-browser testing tool is much safer than installing an out-dated version of the browser.

Conclusion for Safari on Windows

In the end, I think I have answered the question that many Windows users have, “Is Safari available for Windows laptops and PCs”. If you look at it in a way, technically it is available to use. But as I said previously, I would not recommend people to use Safari as a default browser and use to shop online, log on to social media websites and so on. The security of this browser is not up to date and your privacy might be at risk.

If Apple could have continued to support the Safari for Windows , it would have been perfect and pretty useful for people who use Windows device. Because of this, people now either have to use the older version of Safari or have to pay to use the cross-browser testing tools.

Have you downloaded Safari for Windows? Or used the cross-browser testing tool to use Safari on Windows? Let us know in the comments.

Be the Change!

Spread the word and help us create better tech content

Mannatjot Singh

Mannatjot has an immense love and passion for technology and writing. Combining both of these and it becomes a way for him to express his love of tech to all the people on the Internet by providing tech-savvy articles.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

The comments section is to assist our readers with any inquiries. Each comment undergoes rigorous moderation before it can be approved for publication. Your name and comment will be publicly visible. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my details (Name, Email, and Website) in browser and automatically add them when I visit next time.

By commenting on ths website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions *

A Full Guide – How to Download & Install Safari in Windows 11

What is Safari? Is it possible to install Safari for Windows 11? How can you download and install Safari latest version for Windows 11 PCs? To get answers to these questions, you can read this article. MiniTool Solution will give a detailed guide focusing on Windows 11 Safari.

What Is Safari?

Safari is the default web browser on all Apple devices. According to Apple, it is the fastest browser in the world and it is 50 percent faster than Google Chrome when loading websites. Google Chrome is widely used on Windows PCs.

Besides, Apple asserts Safari consumes less battery power than most web browsers. And the time you browse websites on laptops and mobile devices with Safari is longer – 30 minutes longer than Chrome, Edge, and Firefox

Due to a wide range of personalization choices, industry-leading battery life, and strong privacy safeguards, Safari is popular with many users. And someone prefers installing this browser on a Windows PC to replace Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. Perhaps you are also the one.

Is Safari Compatible with Windows 11?

Currently, the new Windows operating system, Windows 11 has been released by Microsoft. You may have upgraded to Windows 11 and decided to install Safari on the new system. Well then, a question comes: is it possible to install Safari on Windows 11? The answer is Yes. Safari is compatible with Windows 11 to some extent.

Back in 2012, Apple no longer developed Safari for the Windows operating system. Safari for Windows was likely abandoned by Apple. Thus, you cannot install the latest Safari browser version for Windows 11. But you can still download and install Safari 5.1.7 which was published a few years ago. This version is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7.

The following is the way to download and install Safari on Windows 11. Now, let’s go to see it.

Is there Safari for Windows? How to download and install Safari on Windows computers? In this post, we will show you a full guide.

Windows 11 Safari Download & Install

Step 1: Download Safari Browser for Windows: Version 5.1.7

Open Microsoft Edge or another browser in Windows 11, search for “Safari for windows download” and you can see some searching results. Click one download website and click the given link to download this version.

Step 2: Install Windows 11 Safari

• Double-click on the downloaded file and click Next to continue.
• Accept the terms in the license agreement.
• Choose the installation options for Safari according to preference.
• Choose a folder where Safari files will be installed. If you don’t install this app to the default path like C:\Program Files (x86)\Safari, click Change to specify one.
• Click Install to start the installation. During the process, you need to click Yes on the UAC prompts.
• After finishing the installation, click Finish . To launch this browser, you can check the box of Open Safari after the installer exits before clicking Finish.

Are you looking for web browsers for Windows? Now we will show you some alternative browsers for Windows and you can choose a suitable one for further use.

Final Words

This is all the information about Windows 11 Safari and how to download & install Safari latest version for Windows. Follow the given guide to get Safari for use.

About The Author

Position: Columnist

It's time for Apple to bring back Safari for Windows

Apple ended development of Safari for Windows in 2010, but it might be time for the browser to make a comeback.

The web has changed drastically over the past decade: web apps have become more common, algorithms now dictate how most people receive content, and billions more people are now connected globally. Google has also become more dominant in that time, and has occasionally used its position in the web ecosystem and browser market in harmful ways. There have been many ideas for how to keep Google's power in check, but here's mine: Apple should make its Safari web browser cross-platform again.

You might recall that the Safari web browser used to be available for Microsoft Windows , in addition to macOS (then known as Mac OS X) and later iPhone and iPad. Apple discontinued the Windows version of Safari many years ago, but bringing it back now could provide one of the best alternatives to browsers built with Google's Chromium engine.

The Windows experiment

Apple released the first version of the Safari web browser in January 2003, as part of Mac OS X 10.3 'Panther', following the end of Microsoft's five-year deal with Apple to keep Internet Explorer as the default web browser on Mac. Even though the web browser was new, the technology powering it was not — Apple used the KHTML rendering engine as a starting point to create Safari's WebKit engine.

The browser was initially exclusive to Mac, but when the first iPhone arrived in 2007, it also included Safari. The first version for Windows, Safari 3.0, was released that same year. However, the Windows version wasn't all that great . The initial release included a security vulnerability for arbitrary code execution, which was patched less than 48 hours later as Safari 3.0.1.

Safari also felt out of place on Windows. Apple used the same (awful) compatibility layer from iTunes for Windows with the Safari port , which re-implemented the Cocoa UI, Core Foundation, Core Graphics libraries on top of Windows — similar to using Wine to run Windows programs on Linux. The result was an application that worked, but didn't match the design or expected functionality of its host operating system.

Despite the early security issues and questionable software architecture, Safari for Windows was a decent web browser. Apple advertised it was "up to twice as fast" as Internet Explorer 7, and up to 1.6x the performance of Mozilla Firefox 2 (both supposedly tested on a Intel Core 2 Duo system with Windows XP and 1GB of RAM).

Apple continued to release new Safari versions for Mac and Windows, but when Safari 6.0 was released as part of Mac OS X Mountain Lion in 2012, a Windows version was missing. Apple later quietly removed the download links for Windows Safari, seemingly marking an end to the browser's existence on non-Apple platforms. The final version was Safari 5.1, released in 2010.

The comeback

Fast forward to 2022, and the web ecosystem is better in many ways, but also far from perfect. Web apps are more capable than ever before, mostly thanks to the accelerated development of new APIs in Google Chrome. However, Google now has significant influence over the course of web browsers — Opera and Microsoft dropped development of their own rendering engines to use the same Google's Chromium engine, while newer contenders like Brave and Vivaldi used Chromium from the start.

Web browsers based on Chromium have the ability to make changes to the browser interface and engine, so Google doesn't have complete control over how they work. Each step away from Google's upstream code makes adopting new changes to Chromium more time-consuming, though. That makes development more burdensome, and more crucially, it can lead to security patches in Chromium taking a long time to show up in some browsers. One example was Kiwi Browser for Android, which was stuck on Chrome 77 for over a year.

The web needs a balance of powers to remain an open platform

The web needs a balance of powers to remain an open platform, but there are now only two major web browsers not based on Chromium: Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari. Firefox uses its own Gecko engine, which has seen significant performance improvements in recent years. Safari still uses WebKit, and while much of Safari's popularity comes from it being the only real browser allowed on iOS and iPadOS, it has also become a proper competitor to Chrome in recent years. Apple bringing Safari to more platforms could pull back some market share from Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers.

Christian Schaefer pointed out in a blog post last year that Apple still supports the WebKit engine on Windows, mostly for embedded applications and Microsoft's Playright testing platform. Newer versions even dropped the iTunes-based monster of a compatibility layer, in favor of the cross-platform Cairo graphics library. However, these minimal builds of WebKit are only intended for site testing, and don't have common browser features like sync, tabs, or extensions.

There are reasons beyond the health of the open web for Apple to port Safari to more platforms. There are millions of people that use an iPhone or iPad, but use Windows PCs instead of Mac computers. Keeping Safari exclusive to macOS might encourage some of those people to buy a Mac, but Safari on Windows (and other platforms) could also act as a loss leader that encourages future Apple hardware purchases — much like the original iTunes for Windows nearly two decades ago. This is also a strategy that worked for Google: Chromebook sales were helped by the popularity of the Chrome browser, which itself only made Chrome more popular.

Apple has also been more willing in recent years to bring its services and applications to other platforms, even in just a limited fashion. iCloud is available for Windows, the iCloud web apps work in most web browsers, FaceTime calls can now be joined via link from non-Apple devices, Apple Music has an Android app, and so on.

Safari for Windows could give Chromium browsers some much-needed competition, while also opening up a more connected experience for Apple devices. There are still plenty of reasons for Apple to not do it, but I'd certainly like to see it happen.

Can You Download Safari on Windows?

You can get a taste of the macOS browser on Windows, but downloading it might not be a great idea.

Safari is one of the most popular web browsers available, and the default browser on most Apple devices. Any macOS user switching to Windows struggles to use a different browser. Likewise, some Windows users may want to try Safari on their Windows devices. However, can Windows users also download Safari?

In this article, we'll explain whether you can download Safari for Windows, how to do so, and what limitations you'll have to deal with.

Apple has stopped offering Safari updates for Windows users since the release of Safari 5.1.7 in 2012. As a result, you can only use Safari 5.1.7 or earlier versions on Windows.

Safari versions after 5.1.7 are limited to iOS and macOS users. Consequently, Windows users cannot use the latest Safari versions.

How to Download Safari on Windows

Safari 5.1.7 is still available for Windows, but it's pretty outdated. And as we listed in our reasons to update your browser, keeping it updated is crucial for your security. So, it's not a good idea to download it.

Still, if you'd like to try it, head to the Uptodown website and download Safari. After downloading, you can install it on your device and begin using it.

Know the Risks Before Downloading Safari 5.1.7 for Windows

We have shown you how to use Safari 5.1.7 on Windows, but take note of the security risks. Due to its security risks, Safari 5.1.7 doesn't merit being a Windows go-to browser. In addition, its interface is quite outdated, and its features are pretty limited, so it isn't worth trying.

Instead, you should check out other options, such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera GX, and many others, which offer the latest versions for Windows users, ensuring their privacy and security.

Safari for Windows: Feel the Apple Touch on Windows PC

Apple has stopped supporting Safari for Windows for quite some time, and there are no updates, bug fixes, or patches available. Besides that, using older versions of Safari on PC might invite malware from certain websites. Given the risk, it is not really advisable to download and use Safari on Windows for regular users.

Just in case if you are a developer, designer, or a UI tester, you will need to check browser compatibility for your project. This is where downloading and using Safari on Windows becomes inevitable. There are two ways to use Safari on Windows PC:

• Using an older version of Safari by downloading the executable file
• Using online service to use Safari with Mac OS X environment

We will discuss both of them in details, keep reading.

How to Install and Use Safari Browser on Windows PC

Step #1. On your Windows PC, download Safari by clicking here .

Step #2. Depending on the browser you are using; you might be prompted to Save the file, or it will automatically start downloading the file without prompting.

Step #3. After the download is completed, double click it and go through the installation process.

Step #4. Once the installation is completed, you can launch it and start browsing as usual.

That’s it! You are now ready to experience the Apple touch on your Windows PC. Reiterating the risk, make sure you do not do any important things on the Safari-like accessing your bank accounts, making payments, buying things from Amazon or other websites that need your personal information.

This version of Safari is quite old and is prone to many web vulnerabilities that have already been fixed in modern browsers. Unless and until it is critically inevitable, we strongly discourage users to use Safari on Windows PC.

Besides security concerns, there are not many plugins available for the older version of Safari, which is easily available on Firefox and Google Chrome.

How to Use Safari on Windows PC using Online Service

Step #1. Open Crossbrowsertesting.com on any of the browser in your Windows PC.

Step #2. Create a free account with the site and log in.

Step #3. From the left menu, hover your mouse pointer on “Live Testing” option and then click on “Start a Live Test.”

Step #4. On the right, under the “Desktop” tab, click on the drop-down menu and then click on the Mac OSX version.

Once you select the Mac OSX version, you’ll notice that the menu beside it will automatically select Safari 11.

Step #5. All you need to do now is to enter the website in the text field. Click “Run Test” button to load up the website.

You can change scaling, resolution , take the screenshot, record video, and many other things from the top menu bar.

This is certainly not very smooth for day-to-day use for normal users. This again comes in handy for developers and testers. It is much more secure compared to downloading an older version of the Safari.

Personally, I was not much impressed with the browsing experience as there were a lot of lags while scrolling. But as a tester, I wouldn’t mind using it, as getting different devices physically is a tedious and expensive task.

The service offers 100 minutes of free browsing, and then you can go with different paid plans if you are happy with it.

Signing off…

It would have been great if Apple continued Safari support for Windows PC as it would have made life a lot easier for a lot of people. Especially for developers and designers, who need to check their work on different browsers.

Related articles:

• 4 Reasons Why Safari is Better Than Any Other Browser
• How to Autofill Passwords, Credit Card Info in Safari with Face IDMax, and XR

Do you use Safari on Windows? If yes, how has been your experience? Share it with fellow users by commenting below.

🗣️ Our site is supported by our readers like you. When you purchase through our links, we earn a small commission. Read Disclaimer .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Policy

How to Download and Install Safari on Windows 11

Safari, the built-in browser for macOS X, is also accessible on Windows 11. On all Apple devices, it is the default browser. Although Chrome is now the most popular browser among most users, Apple users still prefer Safari. In this guide, We’ll look at how to download and install Safari on Windows 11 PC.

Download And Install Safari On Windows 11

Safari is the web browser for Apple devices. It is claimed by Apple to be the fastest browser on the market. For frequently visited websites, they claim Chrome takes 50% longer to load than Safari. Comparisons and benchmarks are also available on Safari’s homepage. Because it’s made specifically for Apple devices, it also helps to extend battery life. When compared to Chrome and Firefox, Apple claims that you can surf the Internet for an hour longer.

Increasingly user-friendly web browsers are in demand due to the ever-evolving technological environment. Every day, users worldwide search for safe and easy-to-use browsers for a variety of reasons, including banking, transactions, and shopping online.

This browser has been designed with ease of use in mind. It also provides unique tools and features that can be found nowhere else on the market. Safari’s amazing features and simple design have made a strong impression on users based on Apple’s reputation.

Download & Install Safari on Windows 11

You can install the Safari browser on a Windows 11 computer by following these steps.

Step 1. You can download Safari for Windows 11 by clicking on the link below.

Download Safari

Step 2. Click the Download button once the link has been opened. Wait for the download to complete.

Step 3. Locate the location where you downloaded Safari after you have completed the download. And open the application.

Step 4. After opening the safari , select Next.

Step 5 . Select the I accept the license terms option. Press Next.

Step 6 . Select all checkboxes here. Click the Next button.

Step 7 . Click the Install button. Another thing you can do is change the location of the file in which it will be installed. Once this is done, wait for the installation to complete.

Step 8 . Click Finish to complete the process.

Step 9 . Wait for Safari to launch. You can then use it.

Conclusion – Safari for Windows 11

This is How to download and install Safari on Windows 11. You will be easily able to download and install Safari on your Windows 11 PC. Since Safari is designed for Mac PCs, it may sometimes crash or not perform up to the mark. So, it’s better to go for Chrome, Firefox rather than Safari.

RELATED GUIDES:

• How To Install Codecs On Windows 11
• How To Fix Screen Flickering Issues In Windows 11
• How To Fix Windows 11 Can’t Uninstall Google Chrome
• How To Download And Install C++ Compiler In Windows 11
• How to Fix Cannot Parse Response in Safari Browser

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to Fix Roblox Outfit Not Loading or Not Showing in Game?

Top 5 ways to fix playstation wrap up not working, top 6 ways to fix palworld mining base not working, how to play games on snapchat online in 2024, how to accept shared album invite on iphone 2024: comprehensive guide.

• Editorial Policy
• We’re Hiring

How to Download & Install Safari Browser on Windows

Install & Run Safari web browser on Windows 10!

There are hundreds of web browsers available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Each of the operating systems has its browsers, like Apple has Safari, Windows has Edge browser, etc., that allow users to experience the internet on all Apple devices.

Safari web browser brings robust customization options, powerful privacy protections, and many other web browsing-related features. Safari is designed to be used only on Apple devices, and it’s the default web browser for all Apple devices.

Apple Safari for Windows

Although Google Chrome is the best web browser right now, many users want to use Safari on Windows 10. So, the main question is, can you install the Safari browser on Windows 10? You can technically download & install the Safari web browser on Windows, but you need to adjust to an outdated version.

Apple no longer offers Safari updates for Windows, which means that the Safari web browser’s latest version is not made for the Windows operating system. You can run the older version of Safari that was released a few years ago.

If you want to download & install Safari on Windows, you must install the older Safari version 5.1.7. The older version of the Safari web browser is fully compatible with Windows 10, and it runs on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

Also Read:  How to Download & Install Android 11 on Windows 10 PC

Download & Install Safari Browser on Windows

In this article, we will share a step-by-step guide on how to download and install the Safari web browser on Windows 10 computer. Let’s check out.

1. First of all, click on this link to download Safari Browser  on your computer.

2. Once downloaded, double-click on the installer file to install the browser.

3. On the main page, click on the Next button and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Wait until the web browser installs on your system.

5. Once installed, open the Safari web browser and use it.

6. You can now use the Safari web browser on Windows to access your favorite sites.

That’s it! You are done. This is how you can download & install the Safari web browser on Windows.

This article is all about how to download & install the Safari web browser on Windows. I hope this article helped you! Please share it with your friends also. If you have any doubts about this, let us know in the comment box below.

RECOMMENDED ARTICLES RELATED ARTICLES

How to Protect Chrome Passwords with Windows Hello

How to Download & Play Mobile Legends on PC

How to Fix Optional Features Not Installing in Windows 11 (10 Methods)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

WhatsApp Users To Soon Share Status Updates On Instagram

• Privacy Policy

Home » Windows » Safari Browser for Windows 10/11 — How to Download and Install

Safari Browser for Windows 10/11 — How to Download and Install

Click to download Outbyte PC Repair and discover its benefits for your Windows system.

Designed for Windows 10 and 11.

Take advantage of our special offer to enhance your PC performance. For more details, please read About Outbyte , and Uninstall Instructions . Also, please review our End User License Agreement (EULA) and Privacy Policy .

Safari, the default web browser on all Apple devices, retains popularity among iOS and macOS users. Despite this, the option to use Safari on Windows platforms is limited due to Apple’s discontinuation of Windows-specific development. The last available version for Windows is Safari 5.1.7 , which was released on May 9, 2012. The utility of this old version of Safari on Windows is limited and usually relevant for advanced users like developers, designers, and compatibility testers. It can be used for cross-browser compatibility testing or to support specific client requirements. However, due to its outdated status and security concerns, it’s not recommended for general browsing or handling sensitive information.

Moreover, you may find the need to open files with the .webarchive extension, which are saved web pages from Safari. If you’re facing such a scenario on a Windows PC, this old version of Safari could be a useful solution.

Security Considerations

Although it’s possible to install this outdated version of Safari on Windows 10 or 11, we advise against it due to the lack of security features present in more recent browser versions. For the most secure browsing experience, we recommend using the latest versions of Chrome , Edge , or Firefox .

If you still wish to use Safari on Windows, follow the steps below.

Expert Tip: For smoother PC performance, consider using a PC optimization tool . It handles junk files, incorrect settings, and harmful apps. Make sure it's right for your system, and always check the EULA and Privacy Policy.

Special offer. About Outbyte , uninstall instructions , EULA , Privacy Policy .

Installing Safari on Windows

In the absence of an official download link, users need to find a trustworthy source to download Safari 5.1.7. The installation process includes accepting the license agreement, choosing installation options, selecting the installation folder, and initiating the install. The browser can be set to open immediately after installation.

• Download the Safari 5.1.7 setup file. The setup supports both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows 11/10/8/7 systems.
• Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Limitations of Safari on Windows

The outdated Safari version available for Windows is slow, incompatible with many web apps, and lacks data syncing, making it ineffective for managing bookmarks and passwords.

Accessing Latest Safari Version on Windows

However, if you wish to use the latest version of Safari, you’d need to install the newest version of macOS on Windows 10/11 using virtual machine software like VirtualBox . Remember, we do not recommend installing or running outdated software due to potential security risks. Consider using alternatives like Chrome and Edge for a safer browsing experience.

Safer Alternatives: iCloud for Windows

The safer alternative to using Safari on a Windows PC is to sync your Safari browsing data to Chrome or Edge via iCloud for Windows. iCloud for Windows can be obtained from the Microsoft Store or the Apple website, and it supports password syncing for Microsoft Edge and bookmarks syncing for Mozilla Firefox. iCloud also enables you to manage your passwords in Windows and syncs passwords between Chrome/Firefox and Safari.

In conclusion, while there may be niche cases where Safari for Windows is necessary, in most instances, current Windows users are better served by using a modern and supported web browser. While some users and companies may still find a use for Safari on Windows, it is generally advised to use more updated and secure web browsers such as Edge, Chrome, or Firefox. These are continuously maintained, unlike the Safari for Windows version, which ensures a safer and more feature-rich browsing experience.

Want to highlight a helpful answer? Upvote!

Did someone help you, or did an answer or User Tip resolve your issue? Upvote by selecting the upvote arrow. Your feedback helps others!  Learn more about when to upvote >

I am having issues with iOS 17.4.1 I am unable to surf the web and see my battery depleting quickly

This new updates seems to have too many bugs, instead of fix. Wi-Fi won’t work. None of the apps open, just keep getting black screen, phone overheating, draining battery faster than charging, can’t access shared iCloud pictures, can not FaceTime. Safari is just blank page. Restarted Wi-Fi, phone, apps, but NOTHING WORKS!!! Can’t surf at all, games are blank too…. Need immediate fix!!!!

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Apr 8, 2024 11:17 AM

Posted on Apr 10, 2024 6:26 AM

Restart won't fix the problem. My iphone is mulfunctioning after 17.4.1

What's going on?

What's the fix?!

Loading page content

Page content loaded

Apr 10, 2024 6:26 AM in response to Chinguu

Apr 11, 2024 2:01 AM in response to Chinguu

Since I’ve updated I can’t call, text , send pictures etc. very stressful not being able to get ahold of anyone. Does anyone know how to fix this or if they will fix this?? Getting very sick of not having a working phone that was super expensive just for it not to work

Apr 9, 2024 8:45 PM in response to lobsterghost1

THIS WORKED!!!!

it takes a few times to figure the process out, but… IT WORKED.

BE PATIENT!!!

Apr 9, 2024 3:22 PM in response to Chinguu

My screen went black and buffered. Now it’s stuck it boot loop!

Apr 10, 2024 6:21 AM in response to Chinguu

My phone completely crashed and died - can’t even turn it on now!

Apr 10, 2024 8:33 PM in response to Chinguu

imessage won’t work, can’t get any calls and FaceTime only works on WiFi.

Apr 10, 2024 8:45 PM in response to Chinguu

My Face ID not recognize me anymore right after the update 17.4.1 which was updated while in my sleep

Apr 10, 2024 5:01 AM in response to Chinguu

I know and there is also some Bluetooth bug. If you pause Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube or whatever music streaming platform you use for a few seconds, your AirPods, Beats Studio Buds, or whatever headphones or earbuds you use randomly disconnects and then reconnects. It’s annoying and Apple needs to do something about it ASAP

Apr 9, 2024 6:18 AM in response to Chinguu

I also encounter a lot of problems. Some apps like Files and Waze crash for no reason. the only solution that works temporarily is to undo a forced restart but the problem comes back regularly.

The support told me to disconnect and reconnect, to reset all the settings, to reinstall the IOS version 17.4.1 via iTunes, but nothing works, it's very annoying.

Apr 11, 2024 6:52 AM in response to Chinguu

There is also a cellular data issue… ruined my whole day just like usually when there is a new ios.. i wonder why i spending this much money to a company like this… fixture may come but my patience is gone

Apr 9, 2024 6:27 PM in response to lobsterghost1

I did force restart twice, with continued glitches.

Apr 10, 2024 2:27 PM in response to Chinguu

I’ve lost all my bookmarks and favourites in safari, I didn’t realise I needed to sync these things on the iCloud, no previous update has wiped them from existence. Now all my saved quick links are gone.

edit: my works app now doesn’t work, and the baby camera monitor app doesn’t work either. Who even allowed this “update”?

among the other issues encountered with this update, that one is the most infuriating… haven’t had to try my AirPods yet with the Bluetooth issues but my garmin no longer gets notifications 😑😑😑

Apr 10, 2024 9:37 PM in response to Chinguu

This page may be some help (thanks to MrBill3):

If your iPhone won't turn on or is frozen - Apple Support

And sometimes typing in the issue you're facing to the search box will turn up solutions.

If you can get back into your phone, so to speak, 9to5Mac reported that Apple released a new version of 17.4.1, but it was only available through a computer. On a Mac, plug the phone into the computer, open a Finder window, and select your iPhone in the side bar. If the side panel isn't showing, go to the View menu and click Show Side Bar. On older Macs you may have to use iTunes, but it is similar. On a Windows computer I believe you either open iTunes or the Apple Devices app, but I'm not familiar with that setup.

Anyway, once you have done that, there should be a "page" for your phone. Choose General from the top row, and there will be a Check for Update button. From there you should be able to update your phone the newer version of 17.4.1.

I updated "over the air" to 17.4.1 and didn't see any problems. But when I saw the article I updated again and my phone went through the whole process, which seems to indicate that this is a different update. Since then it has worked fine, as far as I can see.

9to5Mac reports that the build number for the over-the-air update is 21E236, but the one through a computer is 21E237.

Apr 10, 2024 6:49 AM in response to Chinguu

Some for me, a hard reset will only help a few hours and it happens again…

can’t use the files app or apps which have access to the files app. Even the messages app is crashing when I want to share a file from the files app….

also wake up of the phone takes sometimes a few seconds before the screen wakes up and shows something…

Apr 8, 2024 11:22 AM in response to Chinguu

Force Restart your iPhone, which is something recommended after every iOS update --> Force restart iPhone - Apple Support

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

The best secure browsers to protect your privacy online in 2024

Web browsers have become flooded with ad-sponsored content, making browsers a key battleground for end-user privacy. While Chrome is the most widely used browser in the world, there are alternative browsers and ways to improve your security available to help you stay anonymous online.

Data is one of today's key ingredients for generating revenue. Online advertising companies can use web browsing histories to fingerprint individual browsers over time, creating shadow user profiles to reveal information including a user's interests, product searches, and more -- which can lead to targeted advertising. When you look for a privacy-focused browser, you will want to investigate how advertising trackers and cookies are managed, whether or not search histories are stored or shared, and whether or not the browser developer has a transparent privacy policy in place. 

Also:   The best VPN services (and why you need one to protect your privacy)

What is the best secure browser for privacy in 2024?

ZDNET experts have kept a finger on the pulse of the secure browser market for decades and many of us have tried and tested different options throughout the years. Brave is our top pick for the best browser for privacy based on its approach to user privacy, ad tracking prevention, privacy settings, usability, and speed. 

Below, you will find other recommendations for secure browsers that can protect your privacy -- not only from cyberattacks, but also from businesses that scrape, store, and sell your data. 

Best secure browsers for privacy in 2024

Best browser for privacy overall.

• Not in the traditional online ad business
• Privacy-focused by default
• Chromium challenger
• Some users report compute resource issues

Brave f eatures: Chromium-based | Blocks third-party ad trackers | Blocks cookies | Incognito windows | Onion routing | VPN | Off the record browsing

Brave is a Chromium-based browser that blocks ads, fingerprinting, and ad trackers by default.

Brave supports millions of users worldwide. The organization's business model relies on privacy-protecting ads that pay publishers and users when users pay attention to ads. The company is transparent about this revenue stream, and it is optional -- with users rewarded in crypto tokens if they opt in to ad viewing.

Brave has several privacy-enhancing settings, including options to block third-party ad trackers, upgrade unsecured connections to HTTPS, as well as block cookies and fingerprinting. Invasive ads and trackers are disabled, which the company says then improves loading times on desktop and mobile.

Also: The best web hosting services for building your dream website

Brave  removed Google code  from its Chromium to improve user privacy, including some account integration, background sync, and inline extensions. There is also a "Tor mode" available for use, which provides anonymized onion network routing. 

The browser developer also offers a VPN and firewall service which protects sessions even outside of the browser. Many users say the browser exceeds expectations, although others find some functionality, such as VPN connectivity, could use improvement. 

Brave also offers a feature called " Off the Record " (OTR) for users who may be victims of intimate partner violence. The browser developer says the feature "aims to help people who need to hide their browsing behavior from others who have access to their computer or phone."

Mozilla Firefox

Most secure browser for tracking protection.

• Enhanced tracking prevention
• Focus on accessibility
• Trusted by millions of users
• Strict tracking protection may break websites
• May require heavy PC resources

Mozilla Firefox f eatures: Enhanced tracking protection | Firefox Focus for mobile | Strict privacy standards |   DNS queries sent to a secure resolver service | Focus on accessibility | Encrypted Client Hello

Firefox is a must-have for individual browser privacy across multiple devices. 

One of Firefox's most important privacy features is enhanced tracking protection. Mozilla has borrowed Tor techniques to block browser fingerprinting, and Firefox developers are constantly seeking to improve tracking-prevention features.

Firefox is rich with choices to customize the browser for privacy. It blocks social media trackers, cross-site tracking cookies, tracking in private windows, crypto miners, and fingerprinting scripts. There is a "strict" mode, too, that might break some sites when trackers are hidden in content -- but there are ways to allow enhanced tracking protection for trusted sites. Furthermore, a recent improvement is the introduction of Encrypted Client Hello (ECH).

Users enjoy Firefox's privacy focus but note that it can be a resource hog.

The other option for Firefox fans is Firefox Focus , a privacy-focused browser for iOS and Android that blocks trackers and has a built-in ad blocker.    

Mozilla also offers a VPN , with the option to connect up to five devices to over 500 servers in 30 countries.

The Tor browser

Best for anonymous browsing.

• High levels of anonymity
• DuckDuckGo integration
• Constant updates and improvements
• Learning curve to use
• Can be slow

The Tor browser f eatures : Onion routing | DuckDuckGo integration | Access to websites outside of the clear web

Another great choice for improving your privacy on the web is the Tor browser, a non-profit project focused on anonymizing users online.

Its proprietary web browser disguises a user's IP address and activity by relaying it through a network of servers (nodes) run by volunteers. Bouncing your information around makes it exceptionally difficult to track, which is great if you don't want your ISP or anyone else spying on your online activity. 

Tor can be a crucial tool for whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and people avoiding censorship. The Tor browser is also a popular choice for accessing the deep web: A collection of websites and pages that are inaccessible through traditional means, like search engines, in what is known as the "clear" web. 

Also:  How to use Tor browser (and why you should)

The Tor browser's default search engine is DuckDuckGo, which will not log or store your search queries.

While it isn't a mainstream choice, the Tor browser is a well-regarded browser for people who don't want to be tracked across the web, and it gets updated frequently by  the Tor Project . Users applaud the network's tough approach to privacy but note slow speeds and occasional problems with Captchas.

Page loads in the Tor browser can be slower and some sites might not work well due to the architecture of the Tor network. Nonetheless, the Tor browser is a privacy-preserving browser worthy of consideration.

Best browser for private searches

• Available across different operating systems
• Solid commitment to user privacy
• Email protection settings
• Bland browser design

DuckDuckGo f eatures: Chrome and Firefox supported | Mobile and desktop private browser | Does not collect user data | AI experiments | No search engine query trackers

When it comes to DuckDuckGo, user privacy comes first. 

The privacy-focused search engine and browser is a vocal supporter of consumer privacy rights and now handles millions of user search queries daily.

There is a growing appetite for privacy-focused alternatives to tech giants like Facebook and Google. DuckDuckGo's Privacy Essentials extension for Chrome , Firefox , and Microsoft's Edge  has also proven popular. Its reputation is built on the idea that it does not collect user data but can provide the same search results as those that do. 

DuckDuckGo used to be a search engine rather than a full browser, but then released a mobile-friendly browser app and, now, a desktop version. The organization's browser provides a private search, website protection and blockers, web encryption, and more.

DuckDuckGo is experimenting with AI-assisted technologies to improve the search experience and has recently upgraded its browser . Users appreciate the firm's privacy focus, although some complain of censorship -- a concept DuckDuckGo staunchly denies . 

Mullvad Browser

Best for use with a vpn.

• Two heavyweight privacy developers
• Fingerprint, tracker blocks
• Tor-based privacy features
• New, so less thoroughly tested

Mullvad Browser f eatures : Fingerprint masking approach | Removes online identifiers | Private mode enabled by default | Blocks trackers, cookies

Mullvad is a relatively new entry to the secure browser market.

Not to be confused with the Tor browser, the Mullvad Browser is marketed as the "Tor Browser without the Tor network." The browser is built by the Tor Project team and distributed by Mullvad, a respected Swedish virtual private network provider. 

The idea behind the browser is to emulate the Tor network by creating a similar fingerprint for all users, improving anonymity. Furthermore, the browser comes with a private mode out of the box, tracking and cookies are blocked, and online functions used to extract information from visitors -- such as device identifiers -- are prevented.

You can use the browser as a standalone product, or you can combine it with Mullvad VPN . Users have given generally positive reviews, although you may find yourself signing up for the VPN for the best setup -- and it's not the cheapest on the market.

However, you should keep in mind that Mullvad was  subject to a search warrant by the National Operations Department (NOA) of the Swedish Police in 2023. Mullvad staff said that as the customer data did not exist, law enforcement was left with nothing (and no customer information). 

What is the best browser for privacy?

Brave is our top pick for the best browser for privacy based on its approach to user privacy, ad tracking prevention, the wide range of privacy settings on offer, usability, and speed. However, no browser is perfect, so you must decide which option suits you best.

Which is the right browser for privacy for you?

Not one size fits all, so be sure to reference the table below to better understand which browser suits your use case.

Factors to consider when choosing a secure browser

When you are switching to a more secure browser, there are some important factors to consider:

• Online identifiers : You should check to see if the browser tracks any of your activities, visits, or search queries. This data can be used to create profiles for targeted advertising and may be used to track you across different websites.
• Audits : The best secure browsers will conduct frequent security audits and have consistent patch releases to fix vulnerabilities and bugs that could expose users to risk. 
• Speed vs. security : Some browsers will route your traffic through a number of servers to vastly reduce the likelihood of you being tracked. However, you will need to decide how slow you're willing the connections and browsing to be.
• VPN : If you want to use a VPN, consider whether or not the browser works well with one -- or if the browser offers a built-in solution.

How did we choose these browsers for privacy?

While investigating the best browsers for privacy in 2024, we compared each of these browsers and extensions to determine what makes them different and which is best for different use cases. 

• Balance : The balance between managing user privacy and funding a business can be a tricky one for companies to manage, but as we've shown, many developers are willing to wave the security flag on behalf of users over potential opportunities to generate more revenue.
• User experience : We reviewed customer feedback to ensure that the majority of users find the browsers easy to install and use.
• Features : We like to see additional privacy-enhancing features, like onion routing. We chose providers who offer more than standard browsing experiences. 
• Platform support : We selected browsers offering a range of support for different operating systems and platforms, as well as mobile coverage. 

How does a privacy browser work?

A privacy browser works by automatically erasing your browsing and search history and cookies. It also may limit web tracking, and some even help hide your location (IP address). Privacy-focused browsers may also promote virtual private network (VPN) usage and may include features designed to bypass censorship blocks and keep users as anonymous as possible, such as access to onion routing and refusing to log site visits or web searches.

Do I need a privacy browser?

If you are concerned about your online privacy, you should install a privacy browser or at least an extension. We have to take responsibility for our own privacy online these days, and you can't rely on companies to do the job for you. 

Also:  How to delete yourself from internet search results and hide your identity online

We can recommend a few basic steps to take: Download one of the privacy-first browsers listed above that doesn't log your queries and activities, install a VPN, and use messaging apps with end-to-end encryption. 

Does using a private browsing window hide my IP address?

If you're using Chrome, an incognito window doesn't hide your IP address. It simply doesn't store your browser history, information you've entered into forms, or what permissions you've given to sites you've visited. Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Opera all use a similar form of "anonymous" web window for browsing, but they aren't truly hiding your online identity. 

Also:   The best VPN services (and whether it's worth trying free VPNs)

If you want to block your IP address from being viewed or tracked, you can download a VPN , which masks your IP address so your service provider (or anyone else, for that matter) can't see what you're doing.

What is the most common personal web security risk?

Honestly? Putting your personal or contact information on social media. If you have your full name, phone number, address, or place of work anywhere on your social media, someone can use it to wreak havoc on your personal accounts. 

To prevent this, avoid using your real name online where possible, turn off location tracking, and don't post about your place of work if you can help it. All it takes is a single piece of personal information for someone with very bad intentions to get ahold of your entire online presence -- and so if you're posting photos of you away from home and on holiday, for example, you're letting people know your home is vulnerable.

Also:  The best security keys

Those innocent-looking name generator memes are another big issue; the ones that have you type out your first pet's name and your childhood street name (or something similar) to make up a gnome (or whatever) name. These are answers to common password recovery questions, so by letting the world know that your Christmas elf name is Fluffy Elm Street, you could be handing over all of your personal accounts to internet criminals. 

Are there other browsers worth considering?

Online privacy and security are hot topics today. The amount of data quietly collected on each and every one of us is staggering -- and beyond targeted advertisements, you may not realize it. 

The browsers we've recommended above can help tighten up your defenses against tracking and online monitoring, but as no browser is a perfect solution, you may also want to consider the alternatives below:

ZDNET Recommends

5 ways to improve your chrome browser's security (and why you should), the best mobile vpns: expert tested, the best vpn services of 2024: expert tested.

How-To Geek

How to permanently disable incognito mode in your browser.

Deactivate private browsing mode.

Quick Links

Turning off vs. disabling incognito mode, how to disable incognito mode in chrome for windows, how to disable incognito mode in chrome for macos, how to disable private browsing in safari on iphone and macos, how to disable inprivate mode in edge for windows, can you disable private browsing in firefox, key takeaways.

• You can turn off private browsing in Chrome on Windows and macOS by running a command in Command Prompt and Terminal.
• In Microsoft Edge, you can turn off private browsing through Registry Editor. Unfortunately, there's no native way to turn it off in Firefox.
• You'll need to adjust content restriction settings to turn off private browsing mode in Safari on macOS and iOS.

If you share your phone or computer with children or minors and want to monitor their browsing activity, consider turning off the private browsing mode. Let's explore how you can turn it off in Google Chrome for Windows and macOS, Microsoft Edge for Windows, and Safari for iPhone and macOS.

If you've opened private browsing mode and only want to leave it, turning it off is simple in all major browsers on desktop and mobile devices . Just exit the browser completely, and you'll be out of incognito mode the next time you open it.

However, if you want to completely disable incognito mode to prevent others from using it on a device, you'll need to turn it off permanently, and that has a few more steps involved.

To turn off private browsing mode in Chrome on a Windows device, type CMD into the Windows Search bar, right-click the "Command Prompt" app, and select "Run as Administrator." Ensure you run the Command Prompt utility with administrative privileges to avoid encountering errors while turning off private browsing mode.

Once you've opened Command Prompt as an administrator, copy and paste the following command into the window, and then press the Enter key:

After executing this command, exit the Command Prompt window. You should now see that Incognito mode has been disabled (grayed out) in Chrome.

If you decide to re-enable private browsing later, use the above command again in Command Prompt, but replace the "1" with "0," like so:

To turn off private browsing in Chrome on a macOS device, first launch Terminal . Press Command+Space to open the Spotlight search window. Then, type Terminal and double-click "Terminal" in the search results to open it.

In the Terminal window, enter the following command:

Press Enter after typing the command.

After executing the command, close the Terminal window. You'll find that private browsing mode has been turned off in Chrome.

Safari doesn't offer a direct option to turn off private browsing mode. However, by adjusting content restrictions for web content, you can disable Safari's private browsing mode on both iPhone and macOS.

Disable Private Browsing on an iPhone

To adjust these permissions on an iPhone, open your device's settings and tap "Screen Time." If Screen Time isn't enabled, tap "Turn on Screen Time," then tap "Continue" on the following page to activate it.

Next, set up a passcode for Screen Time to prevent your child from making unauthorized changes. To do this, tap on "Use Screen Time Passcode," set a passcode, and confirm it on the next page. This will protect Screen Time with the passcode.

Now, navigate to "Content and Privacy Restrictions." Enable the toggle next to "Content and Privacy Restrictions" and tap on "Content Restrictions." You may need to enter the passcode to access the content restrictions settings.

In this menu, tap "Web Content" and select "Limit Adult Websites" from the available options. Once done, exit this menu, and you'll notice that the private browsing option is no longer available in Safari.

Disable Private Browsing on a Mac

To turn off private browsing mode on a macOS device, open System Preferences from the Dock, navigate to "Screen Time" in the left sidebar, and, under Restrictions, open "Content and Privacy" settings.

Enable the toggle next to Content and Privacy. Then, open the "Content Restrictions" settings and select "Limit Adult Websites" from the Access to Web Content menu. Once selected, click "Done" in the bottom-right corner.

Upon returning to Safari, you'll notice that the "New Private Window" option has now been grayed out, indicating that the private browsing mode has been successfully disabled.

If you use Microsoft Edge as your default browser on a Windows device, you can turn off private browsing mode via Registry Editor.

To open Registry Editor, press Win+R, type regedit , and press Enter. Then, click "Yes" in the User Account Control (UAC) window.

In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software > Policies > Microsoft > Edge.

If some of these keys don't exist already, you can create them by right-clicking and selecting New > Key. Then, rename the key accordingly.

Select "Edge," right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it InPrivateModeAvailability . Double-click the value, set the Value Data to "1," and click "OK."

Now, close the Registry Editor and restart your Windows PC.

Misconfiguring Registry Editor can lead to severe consequences. Make sure to follow the above steps carefully when tweaking the keys. For added safety, you can make a backup of the Registry. .

Unlike other browsers, there's no browser or operating system-level solution to turn off private browsing in Mozilla Firefox. The only available method involves using an extension that turns off private browsing. However, due to the associated risks with third-party extensions, we strongly advise against using them.

If you use Firefox as the default browser, remove it from your computer, set Chrome or Edge as your default browser, and turn off private browsing for them. If you have a Windows laptop, you can use Microsoft's Family Safety app to restrict access to any browser other than Edge. Also, you can implement content filters within Edge to disable access to inappropriate content.

You can now prevent your child or other users from browsing privately.

While the above methods will turn off private browsing in browsers, keep an eye on your child whenever they browse the web. They may find ways to work around these restrictions.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

iOS 18 rumored to have a mysterious Safari Browsing Assistant feature

An iPhone running iOS 17

Apple is a few months away from introducing the new features it will be including in iOS 18 at WWDC 2024. As the rumor mill ramps up ahead of the event, two new features have surfaced that could improve how users browse the internet.

According to Nicolas Alvarez on X, the features are titled "Safari browsing assistant" and "Encrypted visual search." Alvarez doesn't go into detail about the features of each, but does say that they each appear to use the Private Relay infrastructure to send data to Apple.

Though actual details of the features remain unknown, the names do at least offer some hint as to what they could be.

Coming in iOS 18: - "Safari browsing assistant" - "Encrypted visual search" Both features seem to use the Private Relay infrastructure to send data to Apple (so that they don't know your IP?). — Nicols lvarez (@nicolas09F9) April 10, 2024

The Safari Browsing Assistant could is naturally linked to Safari itself, but the name may mean some sort of intelligent help could be summoned for users trying to accomplish tasks. Since Apple has been working on AI and machine learning, there's a good chance the technologies will be in play here.

The other, Encrypted Visual Search, could be an evolution of existing search systems available in its operating systems. For example, Spotlight does allow for the content of images to be found, while Visual Look Up offers more information about items detected in images.

Alvarez is uncertain as to what exactly is being changed with Encrypted Visual Search, other than "better privacy" for users. However, Visual Search has also been mentioned in visionOS , albeit not used in the software itself.

It's also entirely plausible that it could be Apple attempting to provide an image-based search system, similar to the function in Google Image Search. But, since Apple doesn't want to offer a full-blown search engine to the public just yet, this seems a little doubtful.

Other recently discovered features include Apple Maps routes , a redesign inspired by visionOS, and more home screen customizations .

Top Stories

Lowest price: Apple's M3 MacBook Air 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 10C GPU drops to $1,349

All of the specs of the iPhone SE 4 may have just been leaked

Rumor: M4 MacBook Pro with AI enhancements expected at the end of 2024

Apple will allow activation of used parts in repairs by users & service shops

Ugreen DXP8800 Plus network attached storage review: Good hardware, beta software

What to expect from Apple's Q2 2024 earnings on May 2

Featured deals.

Snap up Apple's latest Mac Studio for $1,795 this weekend

Latest comparisons.

M3 15-inch MacBook Air vs M3 14-inch MacBook Pro — Ultimate buyer's guide

M3 MacBook Air vs M1 MacBook Air — Compared

M3 MacBook Air vs M2 MacBook Air — Compared

Latest news.

Apple urges court to ignore Epic's anti-steering complaint

Apple has responded to Epic's accusation it is in contempt of court for failing to remove anti-steering measures to its liking, by insisting it's really complying with the order.

Packed with upgrades, Apple's latest M3 MacBook Air with 16GB RAM, 512GB of storage and a 10-core GPU is marked down to $1,349. AppleCare is discounted with an exclusive coupon as well, dropping the price down to $159.

Gaming and AI are in Mac's future, even with low memory capacities

Apple is continuing to insist that users can still get a lot of work done with just 8GB of memory in a Mac, while also being bullish about improving the gaming experience and AI development on the platform.

Accessory manufacturer Ugreen is shifting into a new product category, and has launched a wide range of network attached storage devices with an excellent price-to-performance ratio. Unfortunately the line ships with software that is too immature to unconditionally recommend today.

The best game controllers for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV

Level up your gaming on the iPhone and Apple TV with a new game controller. Here are some of your best options on the market.

Deals: Apple's M3 MacBook Pro 14-inch with 1TB storage drops to $1,799

Apple's upgraded M3 MacBook Pro 14-inch with a bump up to 1TB of storage is eligible for an exclusive $200 discount, plus grab bonus savings on three years of AppleCare.

Apple health study proves anybody can run a marathon — given enough time

For five years, Apple has been running a Heart and Movement Study using the Apple Watch, and its researchers have now examined the training and cardio exercises that marathon runners do.

Underused VPN by Google One service is headed for the graveyard

Google is shutting down its subscription-based VPN by Google One service later in 2024, with the feature heading to the Google graveyard due to being underused by its customers.

A leak that is chiefly rounding up previous rumors about the iPhone SE 4 has added that it will have AI-based camera features, and contrary to expectations, will resemble the iPhone 13 more than the iPhone 14.

Apple's next generation M4 Apple Silicon, is expected to arrive before the end of 2024, and is rumored to have a greater focus on AI than ever before.

Future Apple Pencil may work on iPhone and never need charging

Apple is looking at technology to entirely remove the need to charge a future Apple Pencil without removing features, and whether that will help it be used on an iPhone.

Latest Videos

How to get the best video capture possible on iPhone 15 Pro with ProRes

How to turn off Apple's Journal 'Discoverable by Others' setting that's enabled by default

Latest reviews.

Espresso 17 Pro review: Magnetic & modular portable Mac monitor

Journey Loc8 MagSafe Finder Wallet review: an all-in-one Find My wallet

{{ title }}

{{ summary }}

• a. Send us an email
• b. Anonymous form
• Buyer's Guide
• Upcoming Products
• Tips / Contact Us
• Podcast Instagram Facebook Twitter Mastodon YouTube Notifications RSS Newsletter

iOS 18 May Feature All-New 'Safari Browsing Assistant'

iOS 18 will apparently feature a new Safari browsing assistant, according to backend code on Apple's servers discovered by Nicolás Álvarez . MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris confirmed that the code exists, but not many details are known at this time.

Update: Álvarez has since said that iCloud Private Relay might not be related to this feature.

A browsing assistant in Safari could be one of the many new generative AI features that are rumored to be coming to the iPhone with iOS 18 later this year. There are already multiple iPhone web browsers with AI tools, such as Microsoft Edge with a GPT-4-powered Copilot and Arc Search , which can summarize web pages to provide concise information.

Álvarez also uncovered a so-called "Encrypted Visual Search" feature in the backend code on Apple's servers, but no specific details are known. MacRumors contributor Steve Moser last year discovered a new Visual Search feature for Apple's Vision Pro headset in visionOS beta code, which would allow users to copy and paste printed text from the real world into apps and more, but the feature has yet to launch. It is possible that Apple is planning to debut a more secure version of the feature. However, the code could also relate to the iPhone's existing Visual Look Up feature that can identify objects in photos and videos.

Apple is set to unveil iOS 18 during its WWDC keynote on June 10 , so we should learn more about these potential new features in a few more months.

Get weekly top MacRumors stories in your inbox.

Top Rated Comments

Here's what I found on the web...

Popular Stories

When to Expect a New Apple TV to Launch

iPhone 16 Plus Rumored to Come in These 7 Colors

Alleged iPhone 16 Battery Details Show Smaller Capacity for One Model

Macs to Get AI-Focused M4 Chips Starting in Late 2024

Apple Event for New iPads Still Considered 'Unlikely' Following Delays

Next Article

Our comprehensive guide highlighting every major new addition in iOS 17, plus how-tos that walk you through using the new features.

App Store changes for the EU, new emoji, Podcasts transcripts, and more.

Get the most out your iPhone 15 with our complete guide to all the new features.

A deep dive into new features in macOS Sonoma, big and small.

Revamped models with OLED displays, M3 chip, and redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory.

Updated 10.9-inch model and new 12.9-inch model, M2 chip expected.

Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference will kick off with a keynote on June 10.

Expected to see new AI-focused features and more. Preview coming at WWDC in June with public release in September.

Other Stories

5 hours ago by MacRumors Staff

8 hours ago by Joe Rossignol

9 hours ago by Tim Hardwick

1 day ago by MacRumors Staff

1 day ago by Tim Hardwick

Windows 11 will block updates if you have certain apps installed — here’s how to avoid it

A simple file name change will keep Windows 11 up to date, even with blacklisted apps

Which apps are flagged?

How to stop windows from blocking your software updates.

Citing security and performance concerns, Microsoft has a list of flagged applications that will prevent you from updating Windows 11 to the latest version. The applications are flagged by Microsoft in an 'appraiser.sdb' file, which Windows Updater checks before updating your operating system software. If you have an application installed on your machine that is on the appraiser.sdb file blacklist, Microsoft will prevent your system from installing the Windows update.

The full list of flagged apps has been uncovered by German website DeskModder (via XDA-Developers ), and it includes several software development tools, AMD 's Radeon software for optimizing GPU settings, an Intel audio software, and RealTek drivers. Microsoft has even flagged two Microsoft applications on the appraiser.sdb blacklist.

• ConisioAdmin.exe (Solidworks PDM)
• EaseUS Disk Copy.exe (EaseUS Disk Copy Application)
• ep_dwm.exe (ExplorerPatcher)
• iCloudServices.exe (iCloud files shared in Explorer via WhatsApp)
• RadeonSoftware.exe (AMD GPU perf settings)
• StartAllBackCfg.exe (StartAllBack)
• Multi-mon + Copilot (Microsoft)
• MergeSdb (Microsoft)
• Intel IntcOED.sys (Intel)
• Intel IntcAudioBus.sys (Intel) (%WinDir%\System32\drivers\IntcAudioBus.sys)
• Realtek 8192su Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter (Realtek (%WinDir%\System32\drivers\RTL8192su.sys)

Obviously this can be a major problem, as GPU software and audio drivers can be pre-installed on your machine and are often essential to keeping your laptop or desktop running smoothly. But going without Windows 11 updates can put your system at a higher risk for malware and other security threats.

We've compiled a list of tricks to circumvent the Windows 'appraiser.sdb' blacklist. Any workaround does come with the usual caveats that Microsoft has likely flagged these applications for a reason, so you may be circumventing security protocols by using these solutions. 

If you try to uninstall the flagged software, update your operating system, and reinstall the software Microsoft will prevent you from reinstalling the software. So if you need one or more of the apps listed above, you'll need to make a few adjustments.

If you do choose to go for a quicker fix for the Windows Updater block, this workaround takes only a few steps to get you back on track.

• Uninstall the software
• Update Windows 11
• Download the software
• Before installing, change the name of the installer executable file which is typicall something like softwarename.exe and can be found in your downloads folder
• Install the software from the renamed .exe file

It is possible Microsoft will patch out this fix, so it may not be a reliable workaround. But for now it seems to be working.

Stay in the know with Laptop Mag

Get our in-depth reviews, helpful tips, great deals, and the biggest news stories delivered to your inbox.

MORE FROM LAPTOP MAG

• Laptop Mag’s Ultimate Home Office Awards
• Best laptop 2024: 10 best laptops tested and rated
• Best business laptops 2024: Top picks for office or remote work

A former lab gremlin for Tom's Guide, Laptop Mag, Tom's Hardware, and Tech Radar; Madeline has escaped the labs to join Laptop Mag as a Staff Writer. With over a decade of experience writing about tech and gaming, she may actually know a thing or two. Sometimes. When she isn't writing about the latest laptops and AI software, Madeline likes to throw herself into the ocean as a PADI scuba diving instructor and underwater photography enthusiast.

Ticketmaster suspended my browser and my tickets quadrupled in price — here's how to avoid it

Spotify launches AI playlists — here's when it'll be available and for who

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 with top tier noise cancelling are at all-time low price right now

Most Popular

• 2 Get a free $100 Amazon Gift Card when you buy the 2024 Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
• 3 MSI Claw review: Shamefully declawed
• 4 Act fast! Meta Quest 2 just dropped to $199, includes free $50 Target gift card
• 5 Best Buy is having a big gaming laptop sale right now—here's my 7 favorite deals under $1,000

More From Forbes

Google chrome warning suddenly issued for all windows users.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

If you’re one of Chrome’s billion-plus users on Windows PCs, then another update warning has just been issued to update your browser as soon as you can...

Chrome update now warning issued for Windows users

While Microsoft tries to push its Edge browser, it’s Google’s Chrome that continues to dominate the desktop market, as the default for a billion-plus Windows users. And those users need to ensure Chrome is updated, after the latest warning this week.

Stable channel 123.0.6312.122/.123 includes three fixes for high-risk memory safety vulnerabilities; you might have seen an acknowledgment earlier in the week that all serious Chrome vulnerabilities seen in the wild “started out with a memory corruption vulnerability.” And so no surprises here.

The three vulnerabilities were all found by external researchers, with each receiving a modest $10,000 to $20,000 payout. This is business as usual, not the highly sophisticated zero days that generate bigger headlines and rewards. One of the vulnerabilities is a use after free vulnerability—where freed up memory can still be addressed, the others relate to graphics rendering, one via the GPU.

Gmail And YouTube Hackers Bypass Google s 2FA Account Security

Apple confirms innovative iphone 16 pro upgrade, wwe smackdown results winners and grades after wrestlemania 40.

These are interesting times for Chrome on the security front. In warning of those expansive memory threats, Google has introduced a beta V8 (JavaScript engine) Sandbox which, it says, should “prevent memory corruption in V8 from spreading within the host process... a necessary step towards memory safety.”

Very welcome. And equally welcome was the news earlier in the month, that Google has found a way to address cookie theft, an increasingly well used means to bypass 2FA by hijacking authorized sessions. My colleague Davey Winder reported on some of the attacks emanating from this vulnerability earlier today.

This is also mainly a Chrome on Windows issue, and the proposed solution is so-called Device Bound Session Credentials (DBSC), which means linking those session cookies to a device ID. Stealing the cookies will be pointless, unless you’re lifting the PC at the same time. “DBSC aims to disrupt the cookie theft industry since exfiltrating these cookies will no longer have any value,” Google explains.

It’s only two weeks since Google issued its last critical security fix for Chrome, along with a serious warning that users could be vulnerable to maliciously constructed webpages exploiting (another) memory vulnerability on their PCs

Google has not provided any indication that the latest vulnerabilities have been exploited in the wild, but users should still update their browser as soon as it’s available to them—if not already. I always take the view that once such issues are made public, even in a limited fashion, the risks increase. Threat actors know how long some users will take to update their platforms. Don’t be one of them...

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions