can you block safari on an iphone

How to block websites on iPhone and iPad

Learn how to block websites on iPhone and iPad, especially if you have children or come across content you'd rather unsee

If you're wondering how to block websites on iPhone and iPad then there's a strong chance you've come across a site that you'd rather not view again. Either that or you have children who you would like to keep safe online. After all, there's a lot of great content out there, but a helluva lot of bad stuff, too!

Stick with Safari as your browser of choice, however, and you can easily filter out unwanted websites. As well as blocking adult content, you can ensure specific sites cannot be accessed. You can also go the other way by making sure there's a blanket ban on all but a handful of websites. These are based on a list which you can tailor to suit your circumstances.

How to block websites on iPhone: Access the web content settings

In all cases, the website-blocking features are situated within Screen Time so, to make use of any one of the three functions explained below, you will need to follow these four steps first.

1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and tap Screen Time .

2. Select Turn On Screen Time if it's not already on and follow the on-screen instructions to get set up. Otherwise, tap Content & Privacy Restrictions .

3. Toggle the Content & Privacy Restrictions button into the “on” (green) position.

4. Tap Web Content .

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How to block websites on iPhone: Limit adult websites in Safari

Now that you know how to get into the web content settings, you can start to block websites.

The simplest option is to make use of Apple's own list of adult websites. This will prevent you (or anyone else) from using Safari on an iPhone or iPad to view material aimed at adults.

1. Follow the steps above (concerning web content settings) and tap Limit Adult Websites .

2. If you find this limits some websites that you would like to remain viewable, tap Add Website under Always Allow.

3. You can then type the URL of the site you want to see. Tap Done and tap Web Content to go back to the previous screen.

How to block specific websites on iPhone and iPad

You can also go further and select specific websites that you want to block. These will be in addition to the list of adult websites gathered by Apple.

1. Follow the steps above (concerning web content settings) then tap Limit Adult Websites .

2. Now tap Add Website under Never Allow .

3. Type the URL of the site you do not want to view and tap Done . You can then tap Web Content to go back to the previous screen.

How to only allow specific websites to be viewed on iPhone and iPad

The third way of restricting access to online content is to block almost every website, before then allowing certain ones to be viewable.

1. Follow the steps above (concerning web content settings) and tap Allowed Websites Only .

2. Now, underneath the list of websites which Apple will automatically allow, tap Add Website .

3. Enter the title of the website you want to allow and enter the website's URL . Tap Done and tap Web Content to go back to the previous screen.

And that's it. You should now be able to work out which approach works best for you. If you want to use a different browser, check out how to block a website in Chrome . If you're worried about theft try how to disable control center on a locked iPhone . You can also say goodbye to irritating ads thanks to the best ad blockers , learn how to disable the pop-up blocker in your browser , and, for good measure, figure out how to block spam calls on iPhone . If you're thinking about upgrading your Apple tablet, make sure you read our guide on how to transfer data from iPad to iPad . And if you're like to learn more about using your smartphone's apps, start with how to change your Instagram username .

David Crookes is a freelance writer, reporter, editor and author. He has written for technology and gaming magazines including Retro Gamer, Web User, Micro Mart, MagPi, Android, iCreate, Total PC Gaming, T3 and Macworld. He has also covered crime, history, politics, education, health, sport, film, music and more, and been a producer for BBC Radio 5 Live.

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How-To Geek

How to block a website in safari on iphone and ipad.

If you're an iPhone or iPad owner (especially one whose children use your device), you might occasionally want to block access to a specific website.

If you're an iPhone or iPad owner (especially one whose children use your device), you might occasionally want to block access to a specific website. Whether that website is one of adult nature or just something, you don't want your children to be able to readily access, blocking specific websites on an iPhone or iPad takes just a few taps.

We're going to run through how you can make sure a specific website isn't accessible in Safari. This process recently changed with the release of iOS 12, so if you think you already know how to block websites, you might be surprised. Apple has rolled this particular functionality into its new Screen Time feature, and while it's now hidden below a couple of extra taps, it still works like a charm.

Head into the Settings app, scroll down a bit and tap the "Screen Time" option.

Next, tap "Content Privacy & Restrictions."

If it's not already activated, flick the "Content & Privacy Restrictions" toggle on and then tap "Content Restrictions" to proceed.

On the content restrictions page, tap the "Web Content" option. You might notice that it says "Unrestricted Access," but you will be changing that shortly.

Don't worry; you're almost done.

Next, enable the "Limit Adult Websites" option, which is required before you can block specific sites. From there, tap "Add Website" at the bottom of the screen. This is where you will enter the URL of the website you are going to block.

On the Add Website page, type the URL of the website you want to block and then tap "Done" on the keyboard.

At this point, you're all done, and the website is blocked. You can test this by heading over to Safari and trying to access the website in question. If all has gone according to plan, you will see an error similar to the one we have here.

If you need to add more websites, return to the same place and keep adding. If you decide to remove one at a later date, swipe on the URL and then tap "Delete."

If you prefer to use Chrome instead of Safari, there are some workarounds for blocking websites in Chrome even though there's no built-in feature for it.

How to block websites on iPhone and iPad — keep your kids safe in iOS 17

Here's how to block websites on iPhone.

• Limit adult content in Safari
• Block specific websites in Safari
• Block everything except specific sites in Safari

Want to know how to block websites on iPhone and iPad? Apple offers the ability to do so on both iOS and iPadOS, allowing you to take control of Safari and restrict access to adult content such as porn and gambling.

This guide will teach you the three ways to block websites on iPhone and iPad by simply banning all adult content, adding specific websites to a ban list, or banning all websites and only allowing your children to access some. 

This comprehensive how-to guide will show you everything you need to know and teach you how to block websites on iPhone and iPad in Safari on iOS 17 .

How to limit adult content in Safari for iPhone and iPad

The first and easiest way to block websites in Safari is simply to turn on the "limit adult content" setting in Apple's Screen Time settings. This will create a blanket ban on websites generally considered to be adult, including porn and gambling, and requires the least effort. Here's how to do it:

• Launch Settings from the home screen
• Choose Screen Time
• Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions

• Toggle Content and Privacy Restrictions
• Select Content Restrictions
• Tap Web Content
• Choose Limit Adult Websites

How to block specific websites in Safari for iPhone and iPad

If limiting adult content isn't enough, or you happen to notice a URL that has slipped through the cracks, you can always block any URL you want with restrictions. The steps are very similar:

• Toggle Content & Privacy Restrictions
• Tap Add a Website under NEVER ALLOW
• Type the URL of the website you wish to block in the Website field
• Select Back at the top left

Repeat this process for each site you'd like to block. Keep in mind that if certain websites have mobile sites , you may need to block them separately. If you find a site that's still getting through after you attempt to block it, visit that site and look in the Address Bar of Safari to make sure you're blocking the correct URL. Copy it if you need to and paste it into the field.

How to block everything and whitelist only specific sites in Safari for iPhone and iPad

For very young children, or if you simply want to make sure nothing is accessible except what you specifically allow, you can disable everything and then only turn back on the sites you consider permissible, like Apple or Disney.

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• Choose Allowed Websites . This setting means only the websites you add are allowed to come through, and everything else is blocked

• Tap Add Website
• Add Title and URL for a custom website that you wish to add to your allow list
• Choose Back

Keep unwanted content off your kids' devices

There you have three different ways to block websites on iPhone. Each one is progressively more comprehensive, and as such requires slightly more steps each time. As mentioned, we would generally recommend starting with the general "limit adult websites," before progressing to more specific URL blocking if you want stronger controls. The "allowed websites" setting we'd generally recommend the most for devices used by young children. Using these tools will take away any worries of your children using one of the best iPhones . 

Stephen Warwick has written about Apple for five years at iMore and previously elsewhere. He covers all of iMore's latest breaking news regarding all of Apple's products and services, both hardware and software. Stephen has interviewed industry experts in a range of fields including finance, litigation, security, and more. He also specializes in curating and reviewing audio hardware and has experience beyond journalism in sound engineering, production, and design. Before becoming a writer Stephen studied Ancient History at University and also worked at Apple for more than two years. Stephen is also a host on the iMore show, a weekly podcast recorded live that discusses the latest in breaking Apple news, as well as featuring fun trivia about all things Apple. Follow him on Twitter @stephenwarwick9

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How to block websites and set content restrictions on an iPhone or iPad

• To block websites on an iPhone or iPad, go to the "Content Restriction" section of Screen Time.
• You can block all adult sites or limit access to a list of pre-approved websites.
• You can also block websites with explicit language and protect the settings with a passcode.

With the full swing of the digital age, it's not uncommon to have children under the age of 12 with an iPhone or iPad. 

If you want to set up an iPhone and iPad for your child, you may consider restricting access to any websites that you'd rather not end up in front of young eyes.

Here's what you need to know to block websites on an iPhone or iPad. 

How to block websites on an iPhone and iPad

There are various ways you can block websites on an iPhone so your child doesn't visit them.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Scroll down and tap Screen Time .

3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions .

4. Tap the toggle for Content & Privacy Restrictions to switch it to the right (a green background will appear around the switch).

5. Tap Content Restrictions .

6. Tap Web Content .

7. Choose how you want to limit web access. 

• Limit Adult Websites: This option blocks sites known to be adult in nature (like nudity and pornography). You can also add more sites that will always be blocked or allowed. 
• Allowed Websites Only: This option allows you to create a customized list of the only sites that will be allowed.

How to block searches and explicit language on an iPhone and iPad

You should also consider blocking websites that contain explicit language.

1 . Open the Settings app.

2 . Scroll down and tap Screen Time .

3 . Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions .

4 . Tap Content Restrictions .

5 . Tap Explicit Language .

6 . Tap Don't Allow .

How to set up a passcode to protect your content restrictions 

While you're at it, you should also set up a screen time passcode. This will prevent any semi-savvy child from undoing any of the settings he or she doesn't like. 

3 . Tap Use Screen Time Passcode .

4 . Enter and re-enter the passcode.

5 . Enter your Apple ID username and password so you can recover the passcode if you forget it and tap OK in the bottom right corner of the pop-up.

Now whenever anyone tries to change the Screen Time settings they'll have to enter the passcode to get through.

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Safari is the browser that comes with your iPhone — and all Apple devices, for that matter. But what if Safari isn’t quite your cup of tea? The good news is Apple not only lets you download a different browser for your iPhone but also makes it possible for you to set a different browser as your default. Are you one of those who’ve switched and are now wondering how to disable Safari from your iPhone?

It’s worth noting that Safari is deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, making its complete removal a bit tricky. But don’t worry; there are workarounds to remove Safari from your iPhone. Let’s dive into what you need to know.

Can you delete Safari from your iPhone?

3 ways to disable safari from iphone, why you might want to delete safari from your iphone.

Deleting Safari from your iPhone is almost impossible unless you’re a tech wizard. It’s deeply embedded and not really meant to be taken out. This is mainly because of how closely Safari is integrated with Apple’s operating system. Plus, Apple uses a security feature called System Integrity Protection (SIP) to keep the system’s core parts safe — including Safari.

If you’re not a tech expert, tweaking these settings could lead to some pretty serious issues, possibly even a non-functioning iPhone.

While you can’t uninstall Safari, you’re not entirely out of options. You can’t delete it, but you can disable and wipe out its data. It’s like putting Safari into a dormant state — it’s still there, but it won’t get in your way.

You can do several things to “remove” Safari’s existence from your iPhone.

1. Disable Safari from your iPhone using Screen Time

You can disable Safari, rendering it undiscoverable in the App Library and Home Screen. To do this:

• Go to  Settings   → Screen Time.

Screen Time has many other uses besides hiding apps on your iPhone. You can also use it to  set communication limits for your child  and limit their digital exposure.

2. Remove Safari from your iPhone Home Screen

While you can’t permanently remove Safari from your iPhone, you can remove it from your Home screen and leave it buried in the App Library.

3. Change your iPhone’s default browser

Instead of removing Safari, you may also consider switching your default browser. For instance, you can  change it from Safari to Chrome or any other downloaded browser of your choice.

That’s it; this simple step ensures that when you open links or browse the web, your preferred browser takes the lead, pushing Safari into the background.

There are plenty of reasons why a person would like to delete Safari from their iPhones and switch to a different browser:

• An organization specifies the use of a different browser.
• Other browsers offer better privacy and security.
• Apple has been caught collecting people’s browsing histories, even while using private browsing.
• While Safari being closed-source means it’s more secure and less likely to be compromised by cybercriminals, it also prevents people from checking for vulnerabilities.
• Google pays Apple to feature the search engine giant as Apple’s preferred search engine on all Apple devices. Since Google is known to collect user data for advertising purposes, people might prefer a different browser that uses a different search engine.

If you’re looking for a different browser, here are the  best Safari alternatives for your iPhone .

Wrapping up…

While Apple doesn’t make it easy for you to totally get rid of Safari from your iPhone, there are several workarounds to keep it hidden and inactive. Curious to know – what’s your reason for wanting to ditch Safari? Do you have another browser that better fits your needs? Drop a comment and let us know your browser of choice and why you prefer it over Safari!

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How to Block Websites in Safari on iPhone and Mac

How to Block Websites in Safari on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS (June 2021)

How to block websites in safari using screen time on iphone and ipad.

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.

4. Next up, turn on the switch next to “ Content & Privacy Restrictions ” and tap on the “ Content Restrictions ” option.

Going forward, if someone tries to access the website through Safari, it will show you an “ Access Restricted ” error message. Besides, there will also be a warning saying, “You can’t browse this page at www.xyz.com because it’s restricted.”

How to Block Websites in Safari Using Screen Time on Mac

• Launch “ System Preferences ” from the dock on your Mac. Alternately, click on the Apple icon at the top left corner and click on System Preferences from the drop-down menu.

2. Now, choose Screen Time.

7. That’s it! Now onwards, Safari won’t open this website. Whenever someone tries to open any of the blocked websites, the browser will show a warning saying, “Oops! You can’t see pages on this website. You can’t see the page “https://www.xyz.com/” because it’s not on the approved list in Screen Time.”

How to Block Websites in Safari Using AppCrypt on Mac

• First off, download Cisdem AppCrypt ( Free , in-app purchases available) on your Mac and set a password. Make sure to remember your AppCrypt password as you cannot reset or retrieve it in the future. Click on “Submit” once you are done.

3. Next, click the “+” button at the bottom left and add the URL of the website you want to block in Safari on your Mac. If you want to block all sites except a few, use the Allowlist feature.

How to Block Websites in Safari Using a Third-Party App on iPhone and iPad

• Download the website blocker app ( Free ) on your iPhone or iPad. Then, launch the app and set a login password and log in.

Note : Ensure that the website blocker is enabled in Safari. Open Settings app -> Safari -> Content Blockers (in iOS 14) or Extensions (in iOS 15 or later) and then make sure that the toggle next to the website blocker app is turned on. 

Block Websites in Safari with ease on iOS and macOS

Rajesh Mishra

An old school bibliophile who turned a tech nerd out of obsession. When he is not digging into hacks and tracking down stories that are breaking the internet, you may find him reciting poems.

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How to Block Websites on an iPhone or iPad

If you’re wondering how to block a website on Safari, never fear. In this tutorial, we’ll explain how to block websites on iPhone and how to block websites on an iPad running iPadOS. Most smartphone users keep their devices to themselves and have no real need to share their phones except to share pictures or lend it to a friend to make a call. There are times, however, when restricting website access is necessary. Say your kids or grandkids are over, and they want to check out your apps. You’ll want to be sure to block explicit content. Or maybe some malware or ransomware is circulating. Knowing how to block a website or sites on your iPhone or iPad will keep things safe and blocking content will automatically apply to all installed browsers, including Safari, Chrome, Firefox, or Opera Touch.

How to Block Sites on an iPhone

Apple offers two options for website blocking: one is to block all sites and whitelist your choices, or to block specific websites. Apple made both of these options easy using the Screen Time settings menu. You’ll notice many functions and choices as you go through the Screen Time settings. You can always make adjustments to those once you finish your content restrictions setup. Ready?

To Enable Content Blocking:

• Open the Settings app
• Tap  Screen Time

• Tap Continue
• Tap This is My Phone , or This is My Child’s Phone
• Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions

• Turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions by tapping the button on the right.
• Tap on Content Restrictions.
• Tap on Web Content.
• From this menu, you have three choices that you may check: to allow unrestricted access (of course, you wouldn’t be here if this is your goal), limit adult websites, or allowed websites only.

How to Block Websites on an iPhone—Limit Adult Websites

• Tap Screen Time

• Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.

• Tap on Content Restrictions
• Tap on Web Content

• Choosing this option will block many adult websites automatically, but still gives you the option of adding sites that are always allowed or never allowed.

How to Block Websites on an iPhone—Whitelist

Apple has conveniently chosen some age-appropriate websites already, so you don’t have to go through and add sites such as Discovery Kids and Disney manually. You may remove any of these pre-approved choices by swiping left to delete.

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Screen Time.
• If it’s not already on, turn on Screen Time.

• You will see the default allowed websites below.

If you’re wondering how to block websites on your iPad, the steps are the same. Now you can rest easy knowing that your young family member is protected from inappropriate internet content.

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Erin is a Web Editor for iPhone Life and has been a writer, editor, and researcher for many years. She has a degree in communication with an emphasis on psychology and communication, and has spent many of her professional years as a coach in various business and specialty fields. Erin officially joined the ranks of iPhone and Apple users everywhere around nine years ago, and has since enjoyed the unique and customized feel of Apple technology and its many gadgets. When she’s not working, Erin and her son enjoy outdoor adventures, camping, and spending time with their eclectic collection of pets.

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How to Block Ads in Safari on the iPhone

There are some built-in tools, but you'll likely need a content blocker plug-in

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In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Block Ads on iPhone
• Install Content Blocking Apps
• Choose an Ad-Blocking Plug-In
• Block Pop-Ups

Why You Should Block Ads

• Why You Shouldn't Block Ads

What to Know

• Download and set up an ad blocker app. Then, on iPhone: Settings > Safari > Content Blockers ( on ).
• Suggested ad blockers: 1Blocker, Crystal Adblock, Norton Ad Blocker, Purify.
• Natively block Safari pop-ups on iPhone: Settings > Safari > Block Pop-ups ( on ).

This article explains how to use content blockers to block ads in Safari on iPhones with iOS 9 or higher.

Your phone must have iOS 9 or higher to use content blockers. Update the iPhone OS to ensure it has the most up-to-date version with current security patches.

How to Block Ads on iPhone With Safari

Using an ad blocker for your iPhone means your browser won't download ads. This usually means faster page loads, a longer-lasting battery, and less wireless data usage. If you don't want to see pop-up ads, there is a way to block these ads. Here's how to do so using the Safari web browser for iPhone.

Content blockers are apps that add new features that your default web browser doesn't have. These are like third-party keyboards —separate apps that work inside other apps that support them. This means that to block ads, you need to install at least one of these apps.

Most iPhone content blockers work the same way. When you go to a website, the app checks a list of ad services and servers. If it finds these on the site you're visiting, the app blocks the website from loading those ads on the page. Some apps take a comprehensive approach by blocking the ads and tracking the cookies used by advertisers based on those cookies' URLs .

How to Install Content Blocking Apps

To block ads with Safari content blocker apps, install the app, and then enable it from the iPhone Settings app.

Go to the App Store and download a content-blocking app to your iPhone. The example here is Norton Ad Blocker, but all ad-blocking apps work similarly. See the list below for other suggested apps.

Open the ad blocker app and follow the instructions to set it up. Every app is different, but each offers instructions to turn on the ad-blocking abilities.

On the iPhone home screen, open the Settings app.

Select Safari > Content Blockers .

Move the toggle switch next to the ad-blocker app you installed to On (green).

Choose an Ad-Blocking Plug-In for Safari

There is a sizable market for ad-blocking Safari plug-ins. The following options can get you started:

• 1Blocker : Free, with in-app purchases. In addition to more than 50,000 built-in blocker rules, this app supports custom rules to block sites and cookies and to hide other elements.
• Crystal Adblock : At $0.99, the developer claims that this ad blocker loads pages four times faster and uses 50 percent less data. This app also lets you opt to view ads on some sites to support those sites.
• Norton Ad Blocker : This free ad-blocking app from the company behind the popular and long-running antivirus software also lets you add exceptions.
• Purify : Grab this content blocker for $1.99 to block ads and tracking software. It includes a list (typically called a whitelist) to allow you to see ads on some sites if you like. According to the developer, after blocking Safari ads with this app, you can expect a fourfold increase in page load speeds and your web browsing data usage to be cut in half.

How to Block Pop-Ups on the iPhone Using Built-In Tools

Ad-blocking apps can block all kinds of ads and trackers used by advertisers. If you only want to block intrusive pop-ups, you don't need to download an app because pop-up blocking is a built-in feature in Safari. Here's what you need to do:

On the iPhone home screen, select Settings > Safari .

Toggle the Block Pop-ups switch to On (green), if it isn't already.

You can enable the Safari pop-up blocker on your computer, too.

The main benefit of blocking ads is that you don't see advertising. However, there are other key benefits to using these anti-advertisement apps:

• Websites load faster : Ads are extra elements on the page that have to load, and ads often stream video or play animations. It takes time for the page to fully download and often causes other things like non-ad images and videos to take longer to display.
• You'll be more secure : Many ads are vectors for malware. Infected ads hit a network, even a legitimate one, to disrupt your device.
• You use less data : When you no longer see ads, you won't use your monthly data allowances to load ads. Some ad-blocking apps claim to save you lots of data. While their numbers may be inflated, you'll reduce your data usage to some degree because ad images and videos don't download to your phone.
• A longer-lasting battery : Downloading ads, just like downloading anything in Safari, requires energy. One way to have a longer-lasting battery is to stop downloading so much data, which is what happens when you use an ad blocker.

Why You Shouldn't Block Ads

One downside you might encounter when you block ads on your iPhone is that some websites don't load properly. Some sites detect whether their ads load, and if ads don't load, you can't use the site until you unblock their ads.

Almost every site on the internet makes the majority of its money by showing advertising to its readers. If the ads are blocked, the site doesn't get paid. The money made from advertising pays writers and editors, funds server and bandwidth costs, buys equipment, pays for photography and travel, and more. Without that income, it's possible that a site you visit every day could go out of business. Consider supporting your favorite sites by whitelisting them, so ads on those sites still display.

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How to Block Safari with Screen Time in iOS 12

Dilum Senevirathne is a freelance tech writer specializing in topics related to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Microsoft Windows, and Google web apps. Besides Guiding Tech, you can read his work at iPhone Hacks, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, MakeUseOf, and Switching to Mac.

Any parent should be rightfully concerned about the dangers of unrestricted web browsing. Inappropriate sites that spew violence, hate, and racism are rife, not to mention that the chances of stumbling upon adult-related content are quite high . With iOS 12, Apple did what was best — added a ton of app management features with the new Screen Time. Hence, gaining complete control of Safari, the main portal to the internet on an iPhone or iPad, is more than possible.

If you are looking to prevent your child from accessing the internet entirely, then blocking Safari is pretty easy to do via Screen Time. Alternatively, you can choose to block unwanted websites on Safari, and even impose time limits on either the browser or sites individually. There’s also the option to manage restrictions remotely from the comfort of your iOS device should you want to. Let’s look at how you do each of these in turn.

Block Safari

iOS 12 allows you to block Safari in mere seconds, thanks to the built-in restrictions that come alongside Screen Time. The steps below should help you do that.

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: Tap the option labeled Screen Time.

Step 3: On the Screen Time panel, tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.

Step 4: On the Content & Privacy Restrictions screen, tap Allowed Apps.

Step 5: Turn off the switch next to Safari.

That’s it. Safari is entirely blocked on the iOS device, and won’t appear within the Home screen unless you explicitly choose to allow access to it in the future.

Block App Store

You should know that merely blocking Safari won’t stop your child from downloading another web browser from the App Store and using that as a workaround to access the internet. Hence, it’s in your best interest that you also restrict access to the App Store to prevent that from happening in the first place.

Step 1: Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases from within the Content and Privacy Restrictions screen.

Step 2: Tap the option labeled Installing Apps.

Step 3: Select the option labeled Don’t Allow.

Just like with Safari, the App Store should also be blocked as well. Do keep in mind that you have to lift the restriction whenever you want to or allow your child to install an app.

Block Websites

Why block Safari completely when you can simply create a better environment for your child to surf the internet? If harmful sites are a concern, then Screen Time’s online content restrictions should put your mind at rest.

Step 1: On the Content & Privacy Restrictions screen, tap Content Restrictions.

Step 2: Tap Web Content.

Step 3: Tap the option labeled Limit Adult Websites. That should prompt Screen Time to apply a filter to block websites containing adult-related content or themes completely. To block additional sites, use the Add Website option under Never Allow.

Alternatively, tap Allowed Websites Only to block access to all websites (except for 10 very kid-friendly sites). Afterward, use the Add Website option that shows up to manually allow access to safe websites of your choice.

Impose Time Limit on Safari

iOS 12 also lets you take things further by restricting overall Safari usage with the use of Screen Time’s App Limits functionality. It should come in pretty useful if all you are after is to minimize the amount of time that your child spends on the internet. Also, it fully complements the web content restrictions that you went through above as a means to gain more control over browsing activities.

Step 1: On the Screen Time panel, tap on the device name.

Step 2: Under the Most Used section, tap Safari.

Step 3: Tap the option labeled Add Limit. The graph to the top of the screen denotes the amount of time that Safari was used throughout the day (or week), along with a daily average to help you determine by how much you want to tone down usage.

Step 4: Specify the amount of time that you want your child to use the app daily, and then tap Add. You can also customize the amount of time for each day within the week by using the option labeled Customize Days.

As soon as the daily time limit runs out, Safari locks itself immediately on the iOS device of your kid. To manage time limits in the future, tap App Limits within the Screen Time panel, and then tap Safari.

Add Time Limits to Websites

Rather than (or in addition to) imposing time limits on Safari, you can also do the same for time-consuming websites. Screen Time displays all web addresses visited via the browser (along with time spent on each site), which you can use to monitor and limit time spent on specific sites — say social media.

Step 1: Under the Most Used section where you selected Safari in the section above, tap on a website that you want to impose a time limit on. Usually, these sites should have the Safari icon listed next to them. However, social media web apps such as Facebook and Instagram feature their respective icons instead.

Step 2: Tap Add Limit, specify an amount of time and then tap Add.

The iOS will block the website automatically when time runs out, while other sites will be accessible without any issue.

Remote Management

You went through several useful ways not just to block access to Safari, but to limit its use as well. But did you know that you can do the same right from your own iPhone or iPad as well? That’s right — thanks to Apple’s integration of Family Sharing along with Screen Time, any family members that you add also appear within the Screen Time panel.

Simply select a family member from under the Family section, and you should find a dedicated Screen Time panel reminiscent to the one present on your device.

From there onward, you can monitor app usage, block Safari, impose time limits and so on. Just like you’d interact with the device directly. The steps are pretty much the same, and any restrictions or time limits apply cumulatively to all devices owned by a family member.

A Much Safer Experience Online

Screen Time is one of the best offerings available on iOS 12. You can not only block Safari easily but also perform a host of other actions that don’t feel so drastic. Combine it with remote management, and the amount of control that you’ve got is just phenomenal. Check our complete iOS 12 Screen Time guide for more information on how each feature works.

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Last updated on 03 February, 2022

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

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Dilum Senevirathne

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How to Disable Private Browsing in Safari on iPhone or iPad: Quick Guide

Block or turn off Safari's private browsing feature on your iPhone

Last Updated: April 8, 2023 Fact Checked

Switching Back to Regular Browsing

Disabling private browsing permanently.

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Kyle Smith . Kyle Smith is a wikiHow Technology Writer, learning and sharing information about the latest technology. He has presented his research at multiple engineering conferences and is the writer and editor of hundreds of online electronics repair guides. Kyle received a BS in Industrial Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 97,915 times. Learn more...

Trying to disable the private browsing feature in Safari on an iPhone? You can do so easily by using the built-in content restrictions settings. If you're just trying to turn off private browsing and get back to normal browsing, you can switch modes directly in the Safari app. This wikiHow guide will show you how to turn off or permanently disable Private Browsing on an iPhone or iPad.

Things You Should Know

• To turn off private browsing, open Safari, tap the tabs button, and tap Private to switch to normal browsing.
• To disable private browsing, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content.
• On the Web Content page, select "Limit Adult Websites" to disable private browsing.

• Private browsing is a great way to avoid cookies. When you switch to normal browsing, you'll need to manually delete cookies in Safari .

• This will be called Start Page if you don't have any tabs open in the normal browsing mode.
• Private mode doesn't record your browsing history. For normal browsing mode, you can delete your browsing history if needed.

• This method uses the built-in content and privacy restriction features to limit access to adult websites. This setting turns off the ability to use private browsing in Safari. Note that this will also prevent the user from accessing most websites with adult content.

• Note that this will also prevent you from accessing most websites with adult content.

Expert Q&A

• If you're trying to keep your browsing information off iCloud, you can turn off Safari iCloud syncing on your iPhone . Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203036
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304

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Hooked to Your iPhone? How to Block Distracting Websites Easily

Are you concerned about your iPhone screen time? Are a small handful of websites sucking you in? Here's how you can limit your exposure to certain websites on your iPhone.

• More than a decade of journalism experience

Really, it all comes down to getting off your phone or reducing the amount of distractions on your phone if you can't do the former. 

Many of us grapple with the same issue: excessive screen time. Whether it's browsing websites or checking our iPhones, the struggle is real. And sometimes the culprit is just a few websites that somehow mange to suck us in for hours on end. Apple is well-aware of this issue and has equipped the iPhone with some tools to help you take back control of screen-time 

In this article, we'll show you how to block specific websites on the iPhone. Whether you're looking to reduce distractions, increase productivity or simply limit your time on social media, these steps should help you achieve those goals, if you're hooked on a few websites.

To block websites on your iPhone, follow these steps for iOS 17:

1 . Open the Settings app. 2 . Tap Screen Time . 3 . Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions . 4 . Tap the toggle switch to enable Content & Privacy Restrictions . 5 . Tap Content Restrictions followed by Web Content . 6 . Choose how you want to restrict content. You can restrict access to adult websites by tapping Limit Adult Websites . This would block access to websites that are adult in nature such as pornographic websites.  7 . Or you can block all websites except those you specify, by tapping Allowed Websites   then adding websites you want to allow by tapping Add Website under the "Only Allow These Websites" section. There should already be a small handful of websites that have been prepopulated.

Blocking websites on your iPhone is an effective way to take control of your screen time and reduce distractions. Whether you're looking to increase productivity, minimize your time on social media, or simply stay focused, these steps will help you achieve your goals. This guide could help if you have young children and want to limit their access to certain websites or green-light specific websites your kids are allowed to browse. These restrictions apply to all browsers on your iPhone (or iPad), including Safari, Chrome or Firefox.

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How To Block Websites on Your iPhone or iPad

Parental controls on Apple devices show you how to block websites on iPhones and iPads. But here are other (universal) tools to set up age-gated content.

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In this article:

Aura’s digital security app keeps your family safe from scams, fraud, and identity theft.

Can You Block a Specific Website on an iPhone?

Cyberbullying, identity theft, and exposure to explicit language or mature content might be some of the things keeping you awake at night as a digital parent.[ * ] 

Recent iOS 16 updates dangle a respite, allowing you to manage demands for more screen time through iMessages. However, tech-savvy kids can still find their way around your well-meaning restrictions.

This is where dedicated parental control apps can be training wheels to help enforce better tech habits for children . Free parental controls baked into iPhones and iPads let you block websites or limit screen time. But there are other (more universal) tools that you can use to set up age-gated content.

{{show-toc}}

1. Using Apple’s Screen Time

This past September, Apple introduced a host of Screen Time updates that include more intuitive parental controls and website-blocking features inside iOS 16 and iPad OS 16.[ * ]

• Age-based default settings: Previous versions of Screen Time required you to meander through at least 30 steps to set up age-based restrictions for various iOS apps, TV shows, movies, music, and books. These filters are now auto-selected when parents add children on Family Sharing.
• Quick start setup: When you bring any new iOS device near another one already connected to your network, a quick start menu appears. The new iPad or iPhone automatically mirrors the parental controls of the authorizing device. 
• Screen Time requests: When children reach screen limits on their devices, they can send iMessages to parents to ask for more time. Parents can quickly approve or deny these requests within iMessage without having to take their child's iPhone and manually adjust settings. 
• Family Checklist : Family Checklist offers practical tips about parental controls, location sharing, subscriptions, and other Family Sharing features. Parental controls that were once sprinkled in the far corners of the Settings app, Content & Privacy Restrictions, Medical ID, and other features now live in one place.

‍ To turn on content restrictions on your iOS device:

• From your home screen, go to Settings.
• Scroll down to select Screen Time .
• Navigate to Content → Privacy Restrictions → Content Restrictions . 
• Tap Web Content to see three options:
• Unrestricted: Enables free browsing across all websites without any oversight. 
• Limit Adult Websites: Blocks the private browsing mode and restricts access to explicit content.
• Allowed Websites: Permits access to a limited list of family-friendly websites, which you can modify — for example, Disney, Funbrain, and PBS Kids.

These restriction settings work in all browsers across all devices, not just on Safari. However, these settings won’t apply to certain apps, such as Facebook and YouTube. To set time limits and other restrictions on specific apps, navigate to Screen Time in the Settings app.

📚 Related: YouTube Parental Controls: 4 Ways To (Easily) Get Started →

2. Using Free Website-blocking Apps

Parents aren't the only ones who know how to block websites on iPhones; your kids can also reconfigure these settings. Even if you keep your Screen Time passcode a secret, precocious children may still find a way in. 

The App Store has many free website-blocking apps — like BlockSite — that can tighten restrictions. A blocker is an effective tool, whether you want to protect a young child from adult sites that contain unsavory content and explicit language, or keep your teenager focused on school.

BlockSite’s free browser extension works on Chrome and Firefox, and is available for download as both iOS and Android apps.

With apps like BlockSite, you can:

• Block websites by category — limit adult content, and social media or gaming apps.
• Block a list of individual websites that you manually select.
• Sync restrictions across mobiles, desktops, and tablets.
• Analyze usage reports on how your family uses devices.

📚 Related: The 10 Best Parental Control App for iPhone (2023) →

Setting up BlockSite on your iOS device

After you install the mobile app or browser extension, the setup process for website blocking apps is similar across the board.

On the browser extension:

• Select the BlockSite toolbar icon.
• Select the settings/gear icon.
• On the left-hand menu, select the Block Sites tab.
• On the bar on the right, add the websites that you wish to block.
• Confirm your blocklist by selecting Enter .

On the mobile app:

• Select the bottom left shield icon called Block List .
• Tap the green circle on the bottom right.
• Add websites to your block list by entering the website address, keyword, or category.
• Confirm your blocklist by selecting Done at the top, right-hand corner.

Is BlockSite free forever?

BlockSite has a free-forever version. However, it’s limited — only allowing you to block a maximum of three websites at a time. 

The freemium version also lacks key features, including custom block pages and password protection.

To access more features like unlimited blocks and their bulk-blocking tool, BlockSite charges $9/month.

📚 Related: How To Identify (and Avoid) Apple Phishing Emails →

3. Using Router-level Restrictions

Most Wi-Fi routers include parental control features. However, routers don't gatekeep your internet activity like device security software does; they record website traffic and list IP addresses .

That said, you can use most modern routers to block specific websites by their URLs. For example, some popular routers with built-in website blocking features include NETGEAR and Nest Wifi.

To block websites through your router:

• Open a web browser on your device, and type in your router’s IP address. You can find this unique identifier on a sticker on the back of your router.
• Log in to access your router’s settings.
• Navigate to the website blocking tool.
• Enter the specific website URLs that you wish to block. Depending on your router, you may also be able to block entire categories, such as games or social media.
• Save all changes.
• Restart your router. Doing this will ensure that your changes kick in right away.

NETGEAR Armor, for example, automatically blocks suspicious URLs so that you don’t chance upon malicious and potentially inappropriate content. 

If an outgoing Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) or HTTP request matches NETGEAR’s list of blocked URLs, that website will not load.[ * ]

However, not all routers have similar built-in parental controls or up-to-date website filtering databases. And for those that do, you may need a paid subscription to access age-based filters and profiles.

When does a router-level block work over an app?

Website blocking apps do the job, but their restrictions are limited to each device. If you have several children, you may wind up juggling apps and limits on multiple smartphones, iPads, and gaming consoles.

One of the biggest benefits of creating router-level blocks is that the restrictions will impact all devices on the network. Even if your children know how to block (and unblock) websites on iPhones, they can’t careen around your router-level controls.

Websites blocked on a router’s network will remain inaccessible, regardless of the browser or operating system on your child’s device.

📚 Related: How To Control Internet Access at Home (and Block Sites) →

4. Using Aura Parental Controls

Growing children with broader access to technology can quickly outgrow any siloed efforts to set up parental controls. This is where a full-family online safety tool like Aura Parental Controls comes in.

The Aura Family Plan gives you access to several features that keep your kids safe online and offer higher levels of security, including the following:

• Individual profiles for each family member: Create profiles for everyone in the house, and apply time limits or restrictions for specific apps, websites, and streaming services. For example, you can limit your teen’s gaming time to an hour per day on school days. 
• Custom content filters: Determine what type of content your child can (or can’t) view online. With this feature, you can rest easy knowing your young children won’t be exposed to graphic images, language, or violence. 
• View blocked activity: Add specific sites to which you wish to never allow access, and review permissions daily.
• Time limits: Set daily screen time limits for each profile, preventing kids from overusing certain apps or sites. Once your children reach the screen time limit, the app or website will instantly become unavailable. ‍
• Time online: Keep tabs on how much time your child spends on individual apps or categories of apps. ‍
• Parent and child notifications: Receive instant updates when your child reaches preset website or app time limits . ‍
• Dashboards for kids: Let your children see their designated time limits and content filters so they understand what they can do online.

📚 Related: How To Put Parental Controls on Your Child's iPad →

Aura Family Plans Now Include Parental Controls

Left unchecked, your child’s unbridled use of social media, gaming apps, and mature websites could open the door to negative interactions online, cyberbullying , or even identity theft . In the long run, this can take its toll on your child’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Studies prove that surplus screen time without sufficient physical activity can be harmful for young children.[ * ] As digital natives, your children need guidance and boundaries to find a healthy balance between screen time and movement away from their devices.

Unless you remove all internet-connected devices from your children’s lives, there’s no way to guarantee that they won’t stumble upon harmful people or content online. So, it’s up to parents to have open conversations with their children about using technology responsibly.

But the internet can catch anyone off-guard. To keep your entire family safe online, remember to:

• Enforce formal or informal household rules for daily internet and device usage so that children feel safe under your thoughtful oversight.
• Set up content filters to make sure the websites, apps, games, and streaming services on household devices are appropriate for children.
• Default to “Friends or contacts only” settings on social media to prevent unknown users from interacting with your content.
• Install an antivirus software to protect devices against malware, spyware, and ransomware threats — especially when you download apps. Also be sure to turn on automatic software updates on all family devices.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN) when you’re surfing the internet so that malicious websites or threat actors can’t steal your data.
• Research family identity theft protection services that continuously monitor your family’s identity, online accounts, and finances.

Managing screen time is easier with Aura. Try Aura Parental Controls today →

Award-winning identity theft protection with AI-powered digital security tools, 24/7 White Glove support, and more. Try Aura for free.

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Effective Ways to Block Websites on Safari

Learn different ways you can effectively block websites on the Safari browser.

If you're trying to control what websites are accessed on your Apple devices, then you may have wondered how you can block specific websites on Safari. Fortunately, there are a few different ways that you can do this on both MacOS and iOS.

There are a few ways to block websites in Safari. Consider combining these methods together if you are trying to prevent websites from easily being unblocked.

• Point your Apple device to a DNS Content Policy, which will allow you to block websites comprehensively in Safari.
• On MacOS, the hosts file is a reliable way to block websites on Safari.
• Adding to these methods, Apple's Screen Time web content filter can be used to specify website blocklists, which will block websites in Safari on a Mac or iOS device.

Configure a DNS Content Policy to Block Websites on Safari

The best way to block websites on Safari or other browsers is to set a DNS Content Policy . A Content Policy allows you to control what kinds of content your Apple devices can access in Safari, who can access it, and when it can be accessed.

You can specify domains that you want to block with a DNS Content Policy.

Furthermore, you can specific apps to block . For example. instead of blocking the facebook.com domain to block Facebook in Safari, you would update your DNS Content Policy to block the facebook app.

An ideal approach to blocking websites in Safari with a content policy is to block entire categories, which saves you from having to manually add tons of websites to a blocklist.

Sometimes, you don't want to block a website all the time. You can instead, block the website according to a schedule that you've set.

You can also invite people to share your Content Policy , then apply different schedules for each person separately.

Want to prevent changes to your Content Policy? Lock your profile to prevent easily changing your own settings.

You can still make your content policy more restrictive, but will have to unlock your profile if you want to make it less restrictive. 

Block Websites on Safari Using Apple's Web Content Filter

You can access a useful web content filter through Apple parental controls . Screen Time can do more than just keep track of how much you use apps on your iPhone or Mac. It includes some basic website blocking features, that while easy to reset, can be used in certain situations.

Screen Time External link icon can be used on both Mac and iPad/iPhone devices. The first step is to find these settings.

On Mac, you should be able to use Spotlight to search for and open "Screen Time". You should be able to access a Content & Privacy section like this:

Credit: Apple Support

On iPhones, you need to open your device's Settings, then scroll down to Screen Time. The menu should look like this:

The instructions between iPhone and Mac are going to be slightly different.

Configuring the Web Content Filter to Block Websites in Safari on MacOS

First, open the Screen Time menu. You can do this by using Spotlight to search for and open "Screen Time".

From the main overview screen, click on the Content & Privacy Restrictions option from the side menu.

From here, you want to find Web Content entry (this should be under the Content tab). You can choose to set this to Limit Adult Websites .

To block specific websites that you manually specify, you'll need to click the Customize button at the bottom of the Web Content entry.

From here, you should see two options:

• Always Allow : Allow a website always.
• Never Allow : Blocks a website you choose.

Any websites that you want to block should be added to the Never Allow list.

Configuring the Web Content Filter to Block Websites in Safari on iPhone/iPad

If your main goal is to block websites on iPhone , using Screen Time is going to be one of your best friends. 

On iOS, scroll down from Screen Time's main menu. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions :

Make sure that you enable the checkbox near the top of the screen first.

From the Content & Privacy Restrictions menu, tap Content Restrictions .

From this new menu, you will see several options. The one we're interested in is Web Content :

From here, you will three options:

• Unrestricted Access : The default option. This doesn't impose any kind of restrictions.
• Limit Adult Websites : Limits most adult websites. With this option enabled, you gain the ability to enforce a simple whitelist and blacklist.
• Allowed Websites Only : A severely restrictive option that blocks all website but the ones you've specifically allowed. This can cause issues on some websites, so we don't recommend this unless you know what you're doing.

If you want to block a specific website, you will need to choose either Limit Adult Websites or Allowed Websites Only . We strongly recommend choosing Limit Adult Websites , since Allowed Websites Only  requires a much more advanced setup.

You may have noticed that the screenshot above has Limit Adult Websites already selected. This won't be the default option, but once you've selected it, you will see two other options appear near the bottom of the menu:

• Always Allow : This allows a website to be visited, regardless of other restrictions you've set up.
• Never Allow : This lets you block websites you choose. 

If you want to block a website, add it to the Never Allow list . 

How do I delete entries I've added?

Screen Time is a good place to start, however, if you're interested in creating the simplest setup possible, we have a guide that explains all of the different ways to create your own dumb iPhone .

Block Websites in Safari Using the Hosts File

An even better option to block website than Screen Time is by editing the Hosts file . Unfortunately, this option is only available on MacOS and can't be used on iOS.

The Hosts File is a special file on your computer that blocks websites at the network level. You will have to find its location on your system, then add entries to it manually. However, the added benefit over Screen Time is two-fold:

• The Hosts file is harder to find and edit than Screen Time. This means that it's less likely (and more difficult) for websites to be unblocked later on. You might consider this approach if bypass prevention is your focus.
• The Hosts file blocking technique works will block websites in other browsers as well, not just Safari.

However, before you begin changing your Hosts file, it's important to keep in mind a few limitations:

• The Hosts file can be modified by any account with admin access. Determined users can still re-enable websites you've blocked .
• Unless you know what you're doing, modifying the Hosts file can cause issues that are difficult to troubleshoot. You should carefully follow our instructions.
• Adding to many entries to your Hosts file can slow down your Mac computer , so limit the number of websites block to less than 1000.

Adding entries to your Hosts file is a bit more complicated than we can get into with this article, so check out our free guide on how to block websites with the Hosts file  to learn more!

Block Websites

How to use the hosts file to Block Adult Websites

Quickly block thousands of websites for free using the computers hosts file. This is one of the easiest and free ways to block porn on PC.

Limit the Safari Browser on Mac

If you configure a managed MacOS device, you can significantly limit the functionality of the Safari browser - turning it into a "dumb browser."

Using managed mode on MacOS, you have a large list of configuration options available to you. In Safari, you can choose to:

• Disable Private Browsing.
• Hide images on webpages.
• Disable JavaScript.
• Block cookies

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to block websites in safari.

You might try using Screen Time to block websites. You can go a step further and block the website on your Hosts file. However, there are a few problems with relying on these methods alone:

• Screen Time can be powerful, but it's also too easy to disable.
• The Hosts file can be tricky to navigate and make changes to in the future.
• In either case, if you want to block thousands of websites (or entire categories of websites), it's not feasible with either method.

Using a DNS Content Policy to block websites solves for these issues since you can block entire categories or specific apps in addition to specifying website domains. A DNS Content Policy lets you block in a more comprehensive way and is harder to bypass compared to the other methods.

How do I block entire website categories?

If you want to block entire categories of websites instead of managing your own lists, Apple Screen Time allows you to limit Adult Websites, which automatically selects a large list of websites to block.

Additionally, a DNS Content Policy allows you to choose from hundreds of different website categories so you can pick almost any category or app that you can think of.

Tech Lockdown DNS Content Policy rule categories

Tech Lockdown DNS Content Policy rule Lifestyle categories

How do I Disable Safari Entirely?

Some people opt to get rid of the Safari browser entirely since it has limited options for enforcing settings or using browser extensions that work on Chrome.

Another option you can consider is to hide or disable the safari browser  on your device. You can then use another browser to enforce other restrictions, or just not use Safari on that device.

Disable Safari

How to Block the Safari Browser on Apple Devices

Blocking Safari is not straightforward. However, there are a few effective ways to disable or limit Safari on Apples devices like Mac and iPhone.

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How to Block Websites on an iPhone [February 2021]

Evan Gower With over a decade of experience in digital publishing. Evan leads our team with a keen eye for emerging tech trends. Read more February 7, 2021

Blocking specific websites allows you to have more control over the content your children can access on their iPhones. In fact, iOS has a feature that blocks adult content and you can manually insert URLs for all websites you’d like to disable. Often used for children, the ability to block illicit content on an iPhone is a useful new tool.

Using your iPhone or iPad there are several ways to limit content without having to download any third-party applications.

The best thing about these restrictions is that they apply to all browsers including Safari, Chrome, and Firefox. You won’t need to go back and access each browser’s settings to set website restrictions.

Check out the following sections for a step-by-step guide on how to do block websites with your iPhone or iPad.

Utilize Screen Time Options for iOS 12 or Higher

iOS features a Screen Time tab that keeps track of your app usage. In addition, this is where you can block certain websites and set more usage restrictions for specific apps. Here is what you need to do.

Launch Screen Time

Launch the Settings app and tap Screen Time to access more options – You can also pull down from the main screen in Settings to access the search bar, then type Screen Time and go directly to the next step.

Tap ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’

Then, tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and you’ll be presented with a comprehensive menu from which you can block or restrict almost anything on your phone.

Limit Websites

To restrict websites and other online content, toggle Content Restrictions on. Select Web Content and choose “Limit Adult Websites” or “Allowed Websites Only” to set restrictions.

Setting the Parameters – Your Options

There are a lot of options for you to manage the content available to the user of an iOS device. Let’s review each option so that you can make the most informed decision and set up the perfect controls for your situation.

Limit Adult Websites

If you select the Limit Adult Websites option, you can limit access to many adult websites automatically. Specific allowed and restricted websites can be added below.

Below that will be Always Allow and Add Website – that you can tap to add websites you want to always allow even if they’re blocked by the general restriction on adult sites.

Below that, you’ll find Never Allow and Add Website – where you can add websites you want to block in addition to the ones blocked by the general restrictions on Adult sites. Never Allow is where you add websites you specifically want to block.

Allowed Websites Only

The Allowed Websites Only  blocks all websites except for a list of child-friendly websites such as Disney, Discovery Kids, HowStuffWorks, National Geographic – Kids, PBS Kids, and other kid-friendly sites. If you scroll to the end of the list of allowed websites, you can Add Websites that you’d like to allow.

You can include more by tapping on Add Website but it’s important to note that all other online websites will be blocked other than the ones listed there. Typically Allowed Websites only is used for an iPhone used by a child.

Unrestricted Access

Unrestricted Access, of course, enables you to access any website you want from your iPhone.

Blocking Websites with iOS 11 or Earlier

The previous steps apply for iPhones and iPads that are using iOS 12 or later. Prior to iOS 12, there were no Screen Time options and you had to access restrictions in a different way.

If your iPhone is running iOS 11, open Settings and select the General tab, then tap  Restrictions .

Next, tap Enable Restrictions and provide the passcode you use to unlock your iPhone. You’ll need to do this twice.

That out of the way, you should tap Allowed Content and tap Websites to access the settings.

Next, you’ll be taken to the menu where you can block particular URLs. Similar to iOS 12, you get to choose All Websites , Limit Adult Content , and Allowed Websites Only.

Other Screen Time Restrictions

Aside from blocking specific websites, Screen Time offers two more restrictions you might find useful, especially if a child is using the phone.

Downtime allows you to set a schedule and limit the phone and app usage. To be precise, during the Downtime period only calls and allowed apps are at the user’s disposal. And you can also choose to set blocks for specific types of applications.

Tap on App Limits, choose “Add Limit” and select the app category – Games, for example. Hit Next at the top right of the screen and set the timer to the desired number of hours and minutes. There is an option to customize the days of the week when you want the limit to be effective. Once you are done, hit Add and you’re good to go.

Screen Time passcode is an extra layer of protection that can ensure your child doesn’t change the settings. Tap the “Use Screen Time Passcode” and select a four-digit code that you’ll use to change the settings once the limit expires. It is advisable to use a code different than the one that unlocks your iPhone but also one that you won’t forget.

Screen Time also gives you the option to block all web searches including Google and Siri. If your child is overly curious about things you’d rather not explain at their current age, this is a way to keep them from searching for content.

Screen Time for Family

From iOS 12 onwards, it has become super easy to set parental controls on an iPhone. The system gives you the option to add existing Apple IDs of your kid’s accounts and keep track of their browsing habits and phone usage from your device. Of course, you can also create an account for your child and sync it with his or her iPhone.

This way, there is no need to snatch the child’s device to make changes and you can set all the restrictions remotely. The best thing about Screen Time for Family is that the interface is super easy to use even if you are not really tech-savvy.

Choose one of the options from the initial screen and follow the setup wizard. Once you are done, you’ll get notifications about the child’s screen time and usage.

If you’d like to let your child play a little longer they can send a request to your phone or you can type your passcode into their phone to allow them more time without removing the restrictions.

Turning off Screen Time is pretty easy as well. Accessing the Screen Time settings, all you need to do is scroll to the bottom and click on the red “Turn Off Screen Time.” You will be prompted to put in the passcode you’ve set to disable to feature. All limits will be removed until you decide to turn it back on.

Settings for Safari

Safari is the default web browser used on an iPhone. When you’re done blocking a website using Screen time, you might as well make sure that your Safari web browser settings are set to provide some protection against fraudulent websites. To do this tap ‘ Settings’ to open the Settings app, scroll down, and then tap Safari .

Make sure that the  Fraudulent Website warning option is toggled to on.

 Apps to Block Websites on iPhone

If you are not satisfied with the native iOS options, you can always check out one of many third-party parental control apps. What’s more, some carriers like Verizon and T-mobile have their own apps that allow you to block and manage online content.

If you’re not satisfied with the native solution, it’s advisable to go with the one from your carrier, if available. Whatever you choose, make sure that the app allows decent restriction options without any hidden fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

iOS gives us a lot of options to moderate content. Here are the answers to some more of your most frequently asked questions.

Can you block pop-ups on an iPhone?

Yes. Sometimes popups will appear in Safari when you’re accessing content through the browser, you can prevent these secondary windows from appearing by heading to the ‘Settings’ on your phone. Once there, click on ‘Safari’ then toggle the ‘Block pop-ups’ option on. While there, also toggle the ‘Fraudulent website warning’ on. This will help you to prevent any third-party scams or phishing sites.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eWhile not inherently dangerous, some pop-ups can lead you to scam websites while others are just a nuisance.

Can I block app downloads?

Yes, well sort of. One thing that’s really useful for those on iOS is the ability to set up Family Sharing. Doing so is simple and can be done through the iCloud settings on your phone.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eAdd the members you’d like to have in the Family Share group and toggle the ‘Ask to Buy’ function on. This feature means that before someone can download an app it must have approval from your device. This works for free apps as well as paid ones.

Can I block in-app purchases?

Yes, and there are a few ways to do this. You can set your iTunes preferences to require a password or every purchase. Using the Screen Time settings, you can block purchases. There is also the Ask to Buy option we mentioned above that can be set up using Family Sharing.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eAnother option to block in-app purchases is by contacting your cell phone carrier. Some mobile subscription charges can bill directly to your cell phone account. If this happens you can contact your carrier and request a block on your account, they may also give you a refund if you weren’t aware of the in-app purchase.

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How to block a website on Safari

Block unwanted websites on Safari in just a few short steps

If you own a  MacBook , iPad or iPhone , chances are that you’re using Safari . And if you have kids that use your Apple devices, they’re also using the web browser. However, while you might like to have free reign of your devices, there are some websites you would rather younger users even have access to due to inappropriate content. In those cases, it’s important to know how to block a website on Safari . 

Since the internet can be an unpredictable place for even the most savvy of users,  oftentimes it is best just to limit access to what children can and cannot view. In this tutorial, we will be showing you how to block a website on Safari.

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1) Navigate to the top of your laptop screen and click on the Apple logo . 

2) A dropdown menu will appear . Scroll down in the menu and click on the System Preferences tab.

3) Once in System Preferences, navigate to the bottom of your menu and click on the Parental Controls tab.

4) In the Parental Controls tab, select the account that you wish to make changes to by selecting the name on the right-hand side of the screen, as well as selecting the lock icon.

5) After selecting the lock icon, log into your computer’s administrator account and continue.

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6) Next, select the account that you wish to make changes to on the left side of the screen. The account I will be accessing is called Demo 1.

7) At the top of the task bar, navigate over to the Web tab. Click on the Web tab . While in the tab, click on Try to limit access to adult websites and from there hit Customize.

8) In the Customize tab , scroll down to the bottom of the screen, and click the + icon under the Never allow these websites tab. From there, you may add any website that you wish to be blocked, and the access to that website will be restricted.

9) Log into the other account and attempt to view the blocked site. It should now be inaccessible. 

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Pop up ads despite block pop ups marked on in IOS Safari

I have recently begun to get pop-ups on multiple websites in Safari on my iPhone. My iOS is updated to the latest version. I have “block pop ups” active in Safari settings. I have cleared all cookies and browsing history and hard restarted my phone, but I continue to get pop-ups on almost all sites I visit. Is there some other setting I am missing to get these to stop?

iPhone 14 Pro Max

Posted on Apr 30, 2024 6:49 PM

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Apr 30, 2024 7:01 PM in response to seogden1

A website can also provide a page that looks like a pop up and even animate it to look like a pop up. This is not the traditional pop-up that is blocked by your phone. Many times, these sites do this to make it look like a pop up that would be similar to your phone so that you click on one of the buttons. Other times it will be an advertisement. Sites that use these tactics to get your attention should be avoided.

How to clear the cache on your iPhone (and why you should)

How many tabs are open on your mobile browser right now? Go ahead, check -- you might be surprised by what you find.

Americans spend over five hours a day on their smartphones. That's over five hours of your phone potentially accessing, retrieving, and saving cache and cookies, which can negatively impact your iPhone's storage space .

What is cache?

Cache is the temporary storage of some data, like parts of a website from the last time you visited it, for example. Browser cache is content from a website that is stored on your phone during a browser session to help the browser execute faster the next time you visit that page.

Also:  How to clear Google search cache on Android

Cache data can slow down your phone's overall browsing performance, however, since it takes up storage space on your device, so it's good to clear it out regularly. In this article, we mainly focus on clearing web browser cache on an iPhone, but you should know that other types of cache include mobile app cache and CPU cache.

How to clear cache on iPhone

What you'll need: Everything you need to clear your browser cache is within the iPhone's settings app or the Safari app, so grab your iPhone to get started.

Keep in mind that clearing the cache can clear private data, which can close all open tabs in Safari. This is also likely to log you out of all your websites, prompting you to sign in again the next time you open them. 

How do I clear the cache from Chrome on iPhone?

If Google Chrome is your preferred browser, it may have a substantial amount of data stored on your device, which could also slow down performance. 

To clear the cache in Chrome, open the Google Chrome app and follow these steps:

• Tap  Settings .
• Go to  Privacy and Security .
• Select  Clear Browsing Data .
• Select the time from which to delete the data (if you want to delete all your browsing history, choose All Time ).
• Go through the items you'd like to delete, like your Browsing History, Cookies and Site Data, Cached Images and Files, Saved Passwords , and Autofill Data.
• Confirm by tapping  Clear Browsing Data  at the bottom of the screen.
• Tap Done when you've deleted the Chrome cache.

Also: Apple releases iOS 17.4 with podcast transcripts, new emojis, and EU app store changes

Clearing the browsing and cache data in Google Chrome doesn't close all open tabs, but it will refresh each tab and log you out of websites. Once you tap on one of the tabs you want to access, you'll have to log back in.

How can I browse on Safari without history?

If you're learning how to clear cache on an iPhone, you may also be wondering if there's a way to use Safari without saving any browsing history. You can turn on Private Browsing by following these steps:

• Open  Safari .
• Tap on  Tabs .
• Choose Private .

You can also enable private browsing by going to your iPhone Settings, finding Safari, and toggling on the private option. 

How do I clear my app cache on my iPhone?

To clear the app cache from your iPhone Settings app, you can either delete the app and reinstall it, offload it, or try to clear the cache from within the app. Unfortunately, iOS apps don't have consistent settings across the board that would allow you to clear the cache of every app.

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Apps like TikTok and CapCut, for example, have options to Clear Cache within their respective settings. Amazon lets users delete their browsing history, while the Reddit app can clear local history. It all depends on what the app's settings let you do. 

Is "clear cache" the same as offloading?

Not exactly, though app offloading can help if your phone is slowed down by low storage. To offload an app  means to uninstall an app without deleting any documents or data associated with it. 

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To offload an app, go to  Settings , then  General , choose  iPhone Storage  and select the app to offload, then tap  Offload App . If you ever download it again, you'll pick up where you left off for that app.

Are cookies and cache the same thing?

Cookies and cache are not the same. Cookies are data files that websites send to your phone, including things like saved passwords to keep you logged into an account or even the website preferences from the previous time you visited. 

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Though they do sound harmless, cookies can also track how you browse the internet. They monitor patterns in your browsing and search history, even seeing what you clicked on or what your mouse hovered over. Ever made an innocuous search on Amazon only to find ads for it on all the apps you use? Cookies likely made that possible.

Can I block cookies on my iPhone?

While you can block cookies on Safari, the ranks are divided on whether you should. Blocking cookies entirely means that websites won't be able to get information from you, but it also means that some websites may not even work correctly on your browser. A lot of users actually enjoy a more personalized browsing experience, so cookies are a good thing for them.

 If you'd like to block cookies in Safari, follow these steps:

• Go to  Settings  and select  Safari .
• Tap on the toggle next to  Block All Cookies .

There are also third-party extensions that help you block cookies and trackers in Google Chrome, like Ghostery and Disconnect .

How do I check iPhone storage?

On an iPhone, Settings can show you what's taking up most of your media storage, like photos, videos, and music. You can also see what each particular app's storage consumption is, which includes temporary data. To view the details of your iPhone's storage space, follow these steps:

• Go to the iPhone Settings .
• Tap on General .
• Select iPhone Storage .
• Scroll through to find the app you're looking for.
• Tap on the app to view storage status and options.

Unfortunately, you can't clear your iPhone cache for third-party apps by going into your Settings app, but this gives you a visual of your iPhone's storage and the option to delete or offload apps.

Also: Here's the fastest way to declutter your iPhone and free up Gigabytes of space

When you look at your device's storage space, you'll probably see recommended steps you can take to optimize your iPhone's storage, like offloading unused apps.

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Block pop-up ads and windows in Safari

Learn how to block pop-up windows and handle persistent ads on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Pop-ups can be ads, notices, offers, or alerts that open in your current browser window, in a new window, or in another tab. Some pop-ups are third-party ads that use phishing tactics such as warnings or prizes to trick you into believing they’re from Apple or another trusted company, so that you’ll share personal or financial information. Or they might claim to offer free downloads, software updates, or plug-ins to try to trick you into installing unwanted software.

Use these tips to help manage pop-ups and other unwanted interruptions.

Avoid interacting with pop-ups

Unless you’re confident that they are a legitimate ad, avoid interacting with pop-ups or webpages that seem to take over your screen.

If you see an annoying pop-up ad in Safari, you can go to the Search field and enter a new URL or search term to browse to a new site. If you don’t see the Search field on your iPhone or iPad, tap the top of the screen to make it appear.

Some pop-ups and ads have fake buttons that resemble a close button, so use caution if you try to close a pop-up or ad. If you're not sure, avoid interacting with it and close the Safari window or tab.

On your Mac, you can quit Safari, then press and hold the Shift key while opening Safari. This prevents Safari from automatically reopening any windows or tabs that were open.

Update your software

Always install the latest software updates for all of your Apple products. Many software releases have important security updates and may include improvements that help control pop-ups.

The safest way to download apps for your Mac is from the App Store. If you need software that isn’t available from the App Store, get it directly from the developer or another reliable source, rather than through an ad or link.

Check Safari settings

On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Safari.

Turn on Block Pop-ups.

Turn on Fraudulent Website Warning.

On your Mac, open Safari and choose Safari > Settings (or Preferences) from the menu bar.

In the Websites tab , you can configure options to allow or block some or all pop-ups .

In the Security tab , turn on the setting to warn when visiting a fraudulent website.

If adware or other unwanted software is installed on Mac

If you see pop-ups on your Mac that just won’t go away, you might have unintentionally downloaded and installed adware (advertising-supported software) or other unwanted software. Certain third-party download sites might include software that you don’t want along with the software that you do.

If you think that you might have malware or adware on your Mac:

Update to the latest version of macOS. If your Mac is already using the latest version, restart your Mac. macOS includes a built-in tool that removes known malware when restarting.

Check your Applications folder to see if you have any apps that you don't expect. You can uninstall those apps .

Check the Extensions tab in Safari settings to see if you installed any unnecessary extensions. You can turn extensions off .

If you continue to see advertising or other unwanted programs on your Mac, contact Apple.

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How to recognize and avoid phishing and other scams

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

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Apple to unveil AI-enabled Safari browser alongside new operating systems

Safari getting new AI tools in iOS 18

The software — expected to debut as Safari 18 later in 2024 — is currently undergoing evaluation alongside internal builds of Apple's next-generation operating system updates, namely iOS 18 and macOS 15, according to people familiar with the matter. Should all of the new features make it to the release candidate stage, users will be treated to a new user interface (UI) for customizing popular page controls, a "Web eraser" feature, and AI-driven content summarization tools.

Intelligent Search - AI-enhanced browsing and text summarization

Engineers evaluating the latest builds of Safari 18 can find a toggle for the new page controls menu within the browser's address bar. The menu consolidates — and provides quick access to — old and new page control tools, among them being the browser's new "Intelligent Search" feature.

This feature is not automatically enabled in test builds of Safari 18 and instead requires manual activation from the page controls menu. Once enabled, it's believed the tool leverages Apple's on-device AI technology — specifically the Ajax language-learning model — to identify topics and key phrases within a webpage for which to base the summarization.

In selecting key phrases, Apple's LLM software identifies sentences that provide explanations or describe the structure of objects, depending on the text in question. Words repeated within a text and key sentences are recognized as text topics.

These early indications suggest Apple is striving to deliver text summarization alongside Safari 18 later this year, though the exact implementation of this feature remains fuzzy.

Apple's text summarization features could be a response to rival generative AI tools, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT. But Apple's on-device models and technologies like Private Relay could make the experience much more secure for users. Intelligent Search is also likely to be the same AI browser assistant that one X user hinted at a couple of weeks back.

Web Eraser for better content-blocking

Also accessible from the new page controls menu is a feature Apple is testing called "Web Eraser." As its name would imply, it's designed to allow users to remove, or erase, specific portions of web pages, according to people familiar with the feature.

The feature is expected to build upon existing privacy features within Safari and will allow users to erase unwanted content from any webpage of their choosing. Users will have the option to erase banner ads, images, text or even entire page sections, all with relative ease.

The erasure is said to be persistent, rather than limited to a browsing session. This means that Safari will remember the changes even after the original tab or window has been closed.

When visiting a web page with previously erased content, Safari will inform the user that the page has been modified to reflect their desired changes. The browser will also give the user the option to revert changes and restore the webpage to its initial, unaltered state.

As for where Apple got the inspiration for Web Eraser, the company could have Sherlocked the feature from the third-party app 1Blocker. The application features a similar way of erasing ads, where users would tap ads to make them disappear.

Updated UI will move key tools into one easy location

The new page controls menu referenced throughout this article will attempt to offer Safari 18 users quick and easy access to several options previously located across different menus and the Share Sheet. Running on pre-release versions of macOS 15, for instance, the menu also pulls in the "Aa" menu common on existing iPadOS versions of the browser. These include zoom options, webpage settings for privacy controls, content blocking options, extension shortcuts, and access to the new AI and erasure tools.

These various options existed previously on macOS, but were found by navigating through the Safari settings menu. Having all of these controls in one central location in the Address Bar will make these options more discoverable for end users. Other options like on-page text search and reader mode are also in this menu.

This all suggests Apple intends to unite the iPadOS and macOS Safari UI paradigms when it unveils its new OS releases during its Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

AI-enhanced Visual Lookup feature could be available in 2025

Simultaneously, Apple is also working on a much more powerful visual search feature scheduled for integration sometime in 2025 that will allow users to obtain information on consumer products when browsing through images. People familiar with the tool say it's similar to the Visual Lookup feature, through which Siri can identify plants, pets and landmarks from photos.

Visual Search could be implemented as a system-wide feature. So, instead of surfacing search results in the Photos app, the user may be able to use Visual Search directly in Safari by selecting an image.

Given development of this tool is in the earlier stages, it remains unclear how Apple will ultimately go about implementing it. It also remains to be seen whether or not the feature will make it through internal testing.

The iPhone maker has expressed significant interest in artificial intelligence and more recently published research related to on-device language learning models. This goes hand in hand with widespread rumors about several other AI-powered software features, many of which are expected to make their debut later this year with iOS 18.

Another big year for Safari

From its inception, Safari was always meant to rival existing web browsers.

Safari was originally added to macOS as a means of replacing Microsoft's Internet Explorer for Mac, which was the default browser. Over the years, the app made its way to the iPhone , and has since received various upgrades over the years.

More recent versions of Safari provide users with personalized web suggestions, and allow for greater privacy protection with features such as iCloud Private Relay.

This latest set of enhancements only serves to better position Safari against the competition, in an ever-increasing landscape of generative AI tools and third-party ad-blockers.

While Apple tests many such features during different development stages, it is important to remember that not all of them make it to release. Apple has been known to delay features or cancel them entirely, so there's always a chance we may not see these new Safari features after all.

Along with Safari 18 and its associated improvements, we should also see a revamped Calculator with Math Notes make its way to iPadOS 18. Freeform Scenes and Adaptive Voice Shortcuts are new OS features, which are also expected to debut later this year.

Apple is expected to introduce various AI-related enhancements as part of iOS 18 and macOS 15, both of which should be announced at the company's annual WWDC on June 10.

16 Comments

"As for where Apple got the inspiration for Web Eraser, the company could have Sherlocked the feature from the third-party app 1Blocker. The application features a similar way of erasing ads, where users would tap ads to make them disappear." They may also have been inspired by Simplified Page....

As long as I can turn it off/hide it they can knock themselves out. 

Will the web eraser feature remove pop up videos, such as the ones that appear on this site?

I use the 'Reader' function in Safari quite a bit, but sometimes it doesn't work very well. Seems like something that AI could help make better. 

Web ads suck but how else do you think your favorite websites will stay in business? Are you prepared to pay a subscription to every site? I doubt it…

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Beats Solo 4 offer a premium experience at less than half the cost of Apple's AirPods Max. Here's how the two Apple offerings compare.

'Assassin's Creed Mirage' sneaks onto iPhone, iPad on June 10

Apple gamers can get ready to hit the streets of Baghdad in "Assassin's Creed Mirage," as the Ubisoft title will be available on select iPhone and iPad models this June.

Apple issues its fourth round of developer betas

The fourth round of developer betas for Apple's current operating systems has arrived, with new builds of iOS 17.5 and others now available for testing.

Apple distributes fourth visionOS 1.2 developer beta

Owners of the Apple Vision Pro who are also in the developer beta can now download and install the fourth test build of visionOS 1.2.

Amazon has issued fresh price cuts on Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C and Apple Watch styles, delivering the cheapest prices of the year.

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