iOS 18.4 Beta Has This Major Change With Safari Browser For Users: Know More

Apple has released the iOS 18.4 beta version which brings several exciting features and new AI tools for iPhone users. However, one minor yet potentially frustrating change in Safari has been spotted by users.

In the latest update, Safari now automatically displays recent web history whenever you open a new tab and tap the search bar. The change was first spotted by 9to5Mac, and as of now, there seems to be no way to disable it. The same behaviour is observed in Safari on iPadOS 18.4, while the Mac version (macOS Sequoia 15.4) does not display recent searches in this manner.

Additionally, even without opening a new tab, tapping the address field on any page reveals recent searches. This marks a departure from iOS 18.3 and earlier versions, where search history remained hidden unless accessed manually. While some may find this tweak convenient, others might see it as an unwanted privacy concern.

While some users may find this update convenient for quickly revisiting past searches, privacy-conscious individuals might see it as a concern. Apple’s move makes sense from a usability standpoint, as it allows for easier access to previous queries without retyping. However, given how users often resist such changes, this tweak is bound to spark mixed reactions.

For those who prioritise online privacy, this change could be more than just a minor annoyance. Imagine handing your iPhone to a friend to quickly look something up, only for them to see your recent searches—including something as personal as a medical condition you were researching. This lack of discretion could make many users uncomfortable, raising concerns about accidental exposure of sensitive information.

Although we are aware that we can use Safari’s private browsing mode to prevent searches from being saved, this is a workaround rather than a solution.

Apple claims that its privacy feature is a major competitive advantage, and this could spark debate. With the release of iOS 18.4 planned for April 2025, the company has plenty of time to undo this modification.