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How to update safari on mac.

How do you update an app with no update button?

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Keeping safari updated, how to update safari in system preferences.

It's a good practice to keep your web browser constantly updated for security reasons , but Apple Safari on Mac doesn't have an update button. Here's how to keep Safari updated.

Every year, Apple releases new features for Safari, and you usually install them without realizing it because they're linked to macOS updates that you get in System Preferences.

But because Safari is a browser, Apple often lets you update to the latest version of Safari without installing the next big OS release. For example, while Safari 14.0 came bundled in macOS Big Sur , macOS Catalina users can still update to it. Apple also provides regular security updates to older versions of Safari, which is the main reason why  we recommend that you keep it updated .

Related: Why You Should Update All Your Software

To update Safari, you'll have to use the Software Update feature in System Preferences. To get there, click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the screen.

In the menu that appears, choose the "System Preferences" option.

In System Preferences, click "Software Update."

The Software Update panel will show you whether there are any software updates available for your Mac. If there are, you have two choices.

If you want to install the latest operating system along with the latest version of Safari, just click the "Update Now" button and follow the process.

Related: Why You Should Update Your Web Browser

If you only want to install an update to Safari, click "More Info" under the list of available updates to see a detailed list of all updates.

After clicking "More info," a panel will appear listing the updates available for your Mac. Make sure that the "Safari" update is selected, and uncheck "macOS" if you don't want to install a system update along with it. When you're ready, click "Install Now."

After a while, the Safari update will be installed on your Mac.

Once the update process is finished, you can safely quit the System Preferences app using the red Close button in the corner of the window.

Since this process is somewhat confusing and non-obvious, we recommend enabling the auto-update feature to keep Safari and your Mac updated. Good luck!

Related: How to Update Your Mac and Keep Apps Up to Date

Blazing fast. Incredibly private.

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

Performance

More with the battery. less with the loading..

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

Increased performance

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

Improved power efficiency

Safari lets you do more online on a single charge.

Up to 4 hours more streaming videos compared with Chrome 3

Up to 17 hours of video streaming 3

Best-in-class browsing

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

• JetStream /
• MotionMark /
• Speedometer /

JavaScript performance on advanced web applications. 4

Safari vs. other Mac browsers

Safari on macOS

Chrome on macOS

Edge on macOS

Firefox on macOS

Safari vs. Windows 11 browsers

Chrome on Windows 11

Edge on Windows 11

Firefox on Windows 11

Rendering performance of animated content. 4

Web application responsiveness. 4

4K video streaming

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

Privacy is built in.

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

Intelligent Tracking Prevention

Safari stops trackers in their tracks.

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

Privacy Report

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

Customization

Putting the you in url..

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

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

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

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

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

Smart Tools

Designed to help your work flow..

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

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

Translation

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

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

Visual Look Up

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

Surf safe and sound.

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

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

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

Learn more about passkeys

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

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

Learn more about Apple Pay

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

Same Safari. Different device.

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

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

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

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

Designed for developers.

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

Make Safari your default browser

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

How to update the Safari browser on your Mac computer by installing the latest version of macOS

• You can update your Safari browser on a Mac computer by updating to the latest available version of macOS. 
• For those with macOS Mojave or later, you can easily check to see if there are any updates available for your computer and its various apps in your System Preferences.
• If you have an older version, you'll instead have to go through the App Store.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

The first step to updating your Safari browser is checking if your Mac actually has any available system updates. 

If you have macOS Mojave or later, upgrades will come via your System Preferences. If you have a software update available, you can install it to get the updated version of Safari.

System Preferences is also where you can check for any individual upgrades to other Mac apps and programs that might be available for your computer.

Here's how to check if you have any updates available, and if so, how to install them:

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Macbook pro (from $1,299.99 at best buy), how to update your safari browser on a mac computer.

1. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen and selecting "System Preferences."

2. Select "System Updates" — it's marked with a gear icon.

3. Your computer will then check if there are any updates or upgrades available for your Mac.

4. If there are upgrades available, click "Upgrade Now" to continue.

To make things easier, you can tick the box next "Automatically keep my Mac up to date" so that you won't have to worry about making updates in the future.

If you have an older MacOS version, like High Sierra, Sierra, or El Capitan, for example, you would be able to check for updates by going to the App Store — which can also be accessed via the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen. 

From there, toggle over to the "Updates" section, if necessary, and click "Update," next to Safari (if available), or "Update All" if multiple updates are available.

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How to update the Safari browser on your Mac

Apple has been consistent in updating Safari with new features in the past years, including performance enhancements and some whopping privacy upgrades . The MacOS Monterey update is also giving its browser a new look with Safari 15, a version that includes new web code support for more advanced pages, Passkey support for the iCloud Keychain, highlights to emphasize important information, and a whole lot more.

Step 1: Head to the App Store

Step 2: check your updates, step 3: update safari if available, step 4 (optional): add safari extensions.

If you don’t have automatic updates turned on or are delaying certain updates for your Mac, you may not be able to benefit from the latest features right away. The solution is to manually update Safari itself — and fortunately, it’s quite easy to take care of. Here’s how to do it.

Log into your Mac and go to the App store. You can easily open it by selecting the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the MacOS screen and then select App Store .

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When the App Store first opens, look to the left-side menu. Toward the bottom, you should see a section called Updates . Navigate there to check on the status of available app updates.

The Updates section is divided into several parts depending on the status of your apps. There may be a Pending section for apps that are in queue to be updated but need authorization or more time to complete. There could be an Updates Available section for apps that have available updates that haven’t been started yet. And you may also see a Recently Updated section to check on updates that have been recently applied.

Look for Safari in the Pending or Updates Available sections. If you see it look for a blue Update button to the right of the app. If available, select this to begin your Safari update.

Troubleshooting note: If it looks like something is wrong with Safari, such as a pending update that can’t complete or a notice that says something like Unable to Update Safari , then you should try rebooting your Mac and updating again to see if this helps. If it does not work, you should check on your MacOS updates. If your version of MacOS has fallen behind the latest updates for Safari, it may not be available until you complete a more comprehensive upgrade.

Remember, you can typically use this full MacOS update method to update Safari at any time. However, since a MacOS update requires backing up your data and logging out of everything beforehand, it’s not always a feasible option if you’re in the middle of some long-term work. Updating Safari by itself may be a better option.

If you are excited about a new extension that has recently come to Safari, a standard update won’t include it — you’ll have to add it yourself. In the App Store, select the Categories option in the menu. In the list that appears, select Safari Extensions .

Here, you will be able to view the latest extensions and add them to Safari as you prefer. If you want some ideas, check out our list of the best browser extensions .

Reinstalling Safari

Keep in mind that you can choose to delete Safari entirely. If it looks like Safari has a bug or performance issue, deleting the app and reinstalling it is one method of getting everything up to date while fixing your issue. However, the only way to reinstall Safari this way is to reinstall MacOS altogether. You won’t lose any data, but it will take longer to do, so always be careful when deleting Safari.

A note about Safari on Windows

Yes, you can technically download Safari on Windows. However, since Safari 5, Apple has stopped working on this Windows version of the app, so no updates will be available for it. That also means that security and performance for the Windows version have fallen by the wayside, so we don’t suggest using this app at all.

For more information, you may be interested in checking out our best browsers for Mac , and the best web browsers in general based on their lastest updates!

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How to Update Safari on a Mac

Find out how to update Safari on your Mac to keep the browser running as smoothly and securely as possible.

If privacy, performance, and power efficiency matter to you while browsing online, then you have no reason to use anything other than Safari on your Mac. To get the best possible experience, however, you should install Safari updates when available.

The latest Safari updates come with not only feature enhancements but also critical bug fixes and security patches. Below, we'll teach you how to update Safari on a Mac.

How Do Safari Updates Work?

New Safari updates come bundled with macOS updates. But rather than installing everything, you can choose to apply updates only related to Safari.

Still, it's a good idea to install any other system updates when you have the time to improve the stability of other native apps and the operating system in general. Bug fixes are also one of the important reasons to keep your Mac updated , and that extends to Safari as well.

Additionally, it's not possible to update Safari to the most recent version unless you use a relatively new version of macOS. For example, you can't experience the newest Safari features if you don't have the latest version of macOS installed on your Mac.

But you can still apply the latest minor updates for older Safari versions regardless. Since the way to update Safari varies slightly between macOS versions, be sure to check which macOS version is installed on your Mac before processing.

How to Update Safari in macOS Ventura and Later

The process of updating Safari on the Mac is straightforward. If you use Safari on a Mac running macOS Ventura or later, you can get the update by visiting the Software Update section in System Settings. Here's what you need to do:

• Click the Apple menu in the menu bar and choose System Settings from the dropdown.
• Select General from the left pane, and then click Software Update on the right.
• Wait for a moment while your Mac scans for new software updates.
• Select More Info .
• Select Safari-specific updates (if available), then click Install Now.

On the same page, you can also enable automatic updates. That way, you won't have to install updates for your system manually.

How to Update Safari in macOS Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, and Mojave

If your Mac is running macOS Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, or Mojave, updating Safari is similar to how you would update it in macOS Ventura, except that you'll be using the System Preferences panel. So, follow these steps:

• Click the Apple menu in the menu bar and choose System Preferences from the dropdown.
• Select Software Update .
• Now, click on More Info .
• Select any Safari-specific updates if available, and then click Install Now.

How to Update Safari in macOS High Sierra and Earlier

In macOS 10.13 High Sierra and older versions of the Mac operating system, you need to use the Mac App Store to update Safari instead. Follow the instructions below:

• Open the App Store app on your Mac.
• Head to the Updates tab.
• Wait until the Mac App Store scans for new software updates.
• Click on More within the Software Update section.
• Now, click on Update next to Safari.

Run the Latest Safari Version on Your Mac

Not all Safari updates end up making a big splash on the Mac. In fact, you may barely notice a difference with most of them. But the various under-the-hood improvements from each update do stack up over time.

Despite Apple products usually performing updates flawlessly, there may be times when your computer might get stuck during the update process. But don't worry; there are ways to overcome that obstacle.

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How to Update Safari on Your Mac

Get the latest security updates and access new features

What to Know

• To check for updates, open the App Store, then select  Updates and wait for the scan to complete.
• If you see a list of available updates, select Update All , or choose Update  to install individual patches and apps.
• OS updates also appear in  System Preferences  >  Software Updates .

This article explains how to update Safari on Mac OS X High Sierra (10.13) and later.

How to Check for Updates on Your Mac

The macOS System Status normally notifies you of any OS updates. However, you can check for updates manually by looking in the App Store.

Here's how to manually check for updates:

Open the App Store. Either select it under the Apple menu or click its icon in the Dock .

At the top of the screen, select Updates .

In macOS Catalina (10.15), the Updates option is on the left side of the screen.

After the system scans complete, Updates either presents a list of available updates or states that No Updates Available .

Choose Update All to install all listed updates, or choose Update to install select patches and apps.

You may be prompted to enter your Apple ID and Password . Select Sign In when you finish entering your details.

If you set up two-factor authentication, you're prompted to enter a verification code. Enter the number and select Verify .

The patch or update installs. You'll see a progress bar as it installs.

When the update is finished, a list of Updates Installed in the Last 30 Days appears. When the installation is complete, close the App Store.

You may not see any updates available if your system is set to Automatically keep my Mac up to date . OS updates also appear in System Preferences > Software Updates .

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How to update Safari — Get the latest browser updates on iOS and macOS

Get the latest features on your Safari browser

Safari is the third-most popular browser, following gold medal-holding Google Chrome and relatively new silver medalist Microsoft Edge . Safari offers various features that keep its users happy and secure. However, occasional updates are still necessary to ensure that you get the best experience from your Safari browser. This article will teach you how to update your Safari manually.

Safari often updates multiple times in a year. It does this to patch new security vulnerabilities and stop attacks from hackers. However, there are times when updates may include new functionalities or changes to the look of the system.

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By default, Safari updates without any action required from you. However, if you need to update Safari manually, you have come to the right place. Below are the steps to update Safari on macOS and iOS . 

How to Manually Update Safari on macOS

1. To update your browser on macOS, click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences . This will open the System Preferences window.

2. Next, click on Software Update and wait for your device to load.

3. Select any updates related to your Safari browser. If none are shown, it means that your Safari is already up-to-date.

How to Manually Update Safari on iOS Devices

1. The steps to update Safari on iOS differ from those on macOS. Here, the first thing you need to do is open your Settings app.

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2. Go to the General section.

3. Click on Software Update . Wait for your iOS device to load and select the updates related to Safari. You now have the safest and latest version of your browser. 

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How to Update Safari on Mac: A Quick Step-by-Step Guide

Hashir Ibrahim

Reviewed by

Last updated: October 11, 2023

Expert verified

To update Safari on Mac, navigate to System Settings , click General , and select Software Update . If an update is available, click the Update Now button. It will update your macOS and Safari app.

You can also update Safari via the App Store, by turning on automatic updates, and using third-party apps, like MacKeeper.

• Regularly updating Safari on Mac offers enhanced security against vulnerabilities, faster page loading times, new functionalities, bug fixes, and compatibility with modern websites.
• Before updating, check your current Safari version by launching Safari, clicking Safari in the menu bar, and selecting About Safari .
• For hassle-free updates, enable automatic updates to ensure Safari updates itself.
• You may face issues while updating due to an outdated macOS, internet connection problems, insufficient storage, server issues, software conflicts, or having disabled automatic updates.

Want a smoother and safer online journey? It’s time to give your Safari a quick boost! Safari, Apple’s default web browser for Mac, frequently releases updates that offer enhanced features, security patches, and performance improvements.

Even if you’re new to Mac or have been using it for years, updating Safari is a breeze. In this guide, I’ll show you simple steps to update Safari on Mac and get the latest version. Let’s get started and make sure you’re surfing the web at its best.

Before We Begin

MacKeeper’s Update Tracker is designed to keep all your apps, including Safari, up-to-date without the manual hassle. It scans your Mac for outdated software and lets you know when it’s time for an upgrade. It ensures you’re always using the latest versions of your apps, enhancing security and performance.

Why Do You Need to Update Safari on Mac?

Updating Safari on your Mac isn’t just about accessing the latest features, it’s about optimizing your entire browsing experience. It ensures you have a safe, fast, and enjoyable online journey.

Here’s why it’s essential to update Safari on Mac:

• 🛡️ Enhanced Security : With each update, Apple introduces security patches to protect users from potential threats. Keeping Safari updated ensures you’re safeguarded against the latest known vulnerabilities.
• ⚡ Improved Performance : Updates often come with performance enhancements. This means faster page loading times, smoother video playback, and a more responsive browsing experience.
• 🆕 New Features : Apple continually innovates, introducing new functionalities and tools in Safari. By updating, you get to enjoy these fresh features firsthand.
• 🐞 Bug Fixes : No software is perfect. Over time, users and developers identify bugs in Safari. Updates rectify these issues, ensuring a more stable browsing experience.
• 🌐 Compatibility : As websites evolve, they use newer technologies and coding practices. An updated browser ensures you can view and interact with these sites as intended.
• 🎨 Optimized User Experience : Apple often refines the user interface, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. Regular updates mean you’re always getting the best UI/UX enhancements.

How to Check the Current Version of Your Safari Browser

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of updating your Safari browser, it’s a good idea to determine which version you’re currently using. Knowing your current version can help you decide if an update is necessary and ensure you’re not missing any new features or security enhancements.

Here’s how to check the current version of your Safari browser:

• Launch Safari on your Mac by clicking the Safari icon in the Dock or the Applications folder.

• Click Safari in the menu bar and select About Safari .

• In the window that pops up, you’ll see the version of Safari you’re currently using. It will be displayed prominently, usually as Version XX.XX.XX (with the Xs representing numbers).

And that’s it! You’ve successfully checked the current version of your Safari browser.

How to Update Safari on Your Mac

Keeping your Safari browser updated ensures you benefit from the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. The easiest way to get the updated version of Safari on your Mac is via updating your software.

Here are the steps to update Safari on Mac:

• Click the Apple logo and select System Settings .

• ​​Click General and select Software Update .

• Your Mac will check for updates automatically. If your Mac is up-to-date, it will show your current macOS version. But if an update is available, click the Update Now button to download and install it.

• Wait for the update to finish downloading and installing. Once the update is installed, Safari will also be updated to its latest version.

How to Update Safari via the App Store

While the built-in Software Update feature on your Mac is a direct way to keep Safari current, there’s another method that many users find convenient: the App Store. The App Store isn’t just for downloading new apps, it’s also a hub for all your software updates, including Safari.

Here’s how to update apps on macOS via the App Store:

• Click the Apple menu and select App Store .

• Click the Updates tab in the App Store window.

• If updates are available, you will see a list of apps that can be updated.

• Click the Update button next to Safari if it has an update.

How to Update Safari By Turning on Automatic Updates

Want to keep Safari updated without the hassle? There’s an easy way: turn on automatic updates. This means Safari will update itself, so you always have the latest features and security fixes. No need to remember or check for updates.

Here’s how to enable automatic updates on Mac:

• Click the Apple menu and select System Settings .
• Click General and select Software Update .
• Click the small i icon next to Automatic updates .

• A new window will appear. Toggle on the Install application updates from the App Store switch.

• Enter your Mac password to confirm.
• Once you have made your selections, click Done .
• Now, your Mac will automatically check for and install updates in the background.

Update All Apps in One Go With MacKeeper

Do you want a one-click solution to update all your apps, including Safari? MacKeeper can help you with that. Instead of updating each app individually, MacKeeper lets you refresh everything at once. If you’re all about saving time and ensuring every app is at its best, this is for you.

Here’s how to update apps on macOS using MacKeeper’s Update Tracker:

• Download and install MacKeeper.
• Launch MacKeeper and click the Update Tracker tab in the left sidebar.

• Click Scan for Updates .

• MacKeeper will scan your Mac for outdated apps and display a list. To select an app, check the little box next to it or click Check All to select all apps.

• Click Update All .

• Wait for the updates to complete. This can take a while, depending on the number and size of updates.

• You’ll get an Update Completed notification. Click Rescan if you want to update more apps. 

Why Is Safari Not Updating on Your Mac?

If you’ve tried updating Safari on your Mac and encountered issues, several factors could be preventing the update. Let’s explore some common reasons for Safari failing to update on your Mac:

• 🖥️ Outdated macOS : Safari is deeply integrated with macOS. If your operating system is outdated, it might not support the latest version of Safari. Ensure your macOS is up-to-date before attempting to update Safari.
• 🌐 Internet Connection Issues : A stable internet connection is essential for downloading updates. Check if your Mac is connected to the internet and that the connection is stable.
• 💾 Insufficient Storage : Updates often require free storage space. If your Mac is running low on space, it might not be able to download or install the update. Consider freeing up some storage.
• 🚫 Server Issues : Sometimes, Apple’s servers might be overloaded or down, especially if a major update has just been released. If this is the case, try updating later.
• 🛠️ Software Conflicts : Other software or utilities on your Mac might interfere with the update process. Consider disabling or uninstalling any recent apps or utilities and then try updating again.
• 🔄 Automatic Updates Disabled : If you’ve disabled automatic updates, Safari might not update on its own. Check your settings to ensure automatic updates are enabled.
• 🚧 Beta or Developer Versions : If you’re using a beta or developer version of Safari or macOS, you might face update issues. Consider switching to the stable release.

If you’ve checked all these factors and still can’t update Safari, it might be a good idea to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for assistance.

Update Safari on Your Mac

An updated Safari ensures a seamless and secure browsing experience on your Mac. Understanding the potential reasons behind update issues and knowing how to address them, equips you to keep your browser in top shape.

Here are some more tips to improve your Safari experience:

• If Safari is running slow on Mac , updating it might help prevent performance issues and improve your browsing.
• Safari crashing on your Mac can indicate many underlying issues, like outdated software, malware, or too many extensions.
• You can delete Safari history on your Mac to make it run smoothly and avoid crashes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i install an older version of safari.

Yes, you can install an older version of Safari, but it requires some technical steps and isn’t recommended due to potential security risks. Always ensure compatibility with your macOS version and consider the benefits of newer updates before reverting.

Can I update Safari without updating macOS?

Yes, you can often update Safari without updating macOS. However, certain Safari versions may require a specific macOS version. It’s recommended to check Safari’s update requirements or use the App Store to see available updates for Safari independently of a full macOS upgrade.

Can I update Safari on my old Mac?

Yes, you can update Safari on older Macs, but it’s dependent on the macOS version your device supports. If your Mac can’t upgrade to a newer macOS, you might be limited to an older Safari version. Always check compatibility before updating.

I'm Hashir, a tech journalist with a decade of experience. My work has been featured in some of the top tech publications like MakeUseOf and MakeTechEasier. I have a bachelor's degree in IT, a master's in cybersecurity, and extensive knowledge of Apple hardware, specifically MacBooks. As the senior writer at MacBook Journal, I write in depth guides that help you solve any issues you have with your mac and unbiased reviews that help you make the right buying decisions.

Hi there! I'm Ojash, a tech journalist with over a decade of experience in the industry. I've had the privilege of contributing to some of the world's largest tech publications, making my mark as a respected Mac expert. My passion lies in exploring, using, and writing about MacBooks, and I enjoy sharing my expertise to help others make informed decisions and get the most out of their MacBook experience. Join me as we delve into the fascinating world of MacBooks together!

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• Privacy Policy

The default browser for macOS, Safari is one of the most popular choices for its privacy. It has improved a lot over the years, including features like reading mode, storing passwords, and prevent websites from tracking you . However, to run the browser smoothly, it is essential to update it.

In comparison to other apps, updating the Safari browser on Mac is a little tricky. Read on to learn how to install the update and why you need to do it.

Why do I need to update Safari in macOS?

Safari doesn’t receive as frequent updates as other browsers. Moreover, Apple releases updates for Safari alongside major macOS releases. Therefore, they include several improvements, new features, and bug fixes.

Additionally, an older version of Safari may not be fully compatible with the latest macOS and could potentially become a slowpoke.

Keeping the Safari browser updated means access to the latest features and protection against new security threats.

How to update Safari in macOS Sonoma and Ventura

As mentioned earlier, the update for Safari is included with the overall macOS update.

• Go to Apple menu → System Settings.

Further, you can toggle on options in Automatic updates to automatically download Safari updates.

Depending on the options you chose, you might have to install the update and restart your Mac to use the latest version of Safari.

How to update the Safari browser in macOS Mojave or later

• Tap the Apple logo in the menu bar.

How to update Safari on Mac running macOS High Sierra or earlier

Unlike macOS Mojave or later, you don’t get the option to update Safari separately. Hence, you’ll have to install the macOS update to get the latest version of Safari.

• Look for the App Store in the Dock, or search for it in Launchpad.
• Click the Updates tab.

• If available, select Update now to download it.
• Wait for the Mac to install it.

The latest version of Safari for Mac is 14.0.3, and it’s available on macOS Big Sur.

You can’t. Although an older version of Safari for Windows is available for download, you cannot update it as Apple stopped developing the browser for Windows back in 2012.

The latest version of Safari for Windows is version 5.1.7, which was released back in 2012. There has been no update since then. Many users claim that the best version of Safari for Windows is 5.0.

Sometimes, the browser may not work properly if the latest update hasn’t been installed. See if the update is available. You can also try to Force Quit the Safari browser and relaunch it to check if it works.

There you have it. Wasn’t that easy? If you have any further queries, share them in the comments section below.

You may also want to check out our other posts on Safari:

• Safari crashing on Mac? 11 Ways to fix it!
• How to use Safari extensions in iOS 15 on iPhone and iPad
• How to hide IP address in Safari on iPhone and Mac
• How to announce alerts on Mac

I'm a die-hard Apple Fanboy who's keen and enthusiastic to learn and explore new things in the world of technology. Besides that, I’m currently an engineering student in the field of Electronics and telecommunications, thus love playing with electronic hardware. When not exploring the world of technology, I love learning about the universe/cosmos, time travel, different paradoxes, and so on.

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Update to the latest version of Safari

If a Safari update is available for your device, you can get it by updating or upgrading macOS, iOS, iPadOS, or visionOS.

Get Safari updates for Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Vision Pro

The most up-to-date version of Safari is included with the latest version of the operating system for your Apple device.

To update Safari on Mac, update macOS .

To update Safari on iPhone or iPad, update iOS or iPadOS .

To update Safari on Apple Vision Pro, update visionOS .

Get Safari updates for Windows

Apple no longer offers Safari updates for Windows or other PC operating systems. Safari 5.1.7 for Windows, released in 2010 and now outdated, was the last version made for Windows.

If a website says your browser is out of date

If a website says that Safari is out of date even though you're already using the latest version of macOS, iOS, iPadOS, or visionOS, there could be an issue with the website. If you’re sure that you want to use the website, contact the website owner or developer for guidance about how to best use their website.

Related topics

Update Safari on macOS

Updated at: Feb 15, 2022

This guide will step you through the process of updating the Safari web browser on macOS.

Do you need to know what version of Safari do I have?

macOS automatically looks for updates

macOS will regularly & automatically check for updates to Safari (and any other software you have installed via the App Store) and prompt you to install updates as they are found.

It should prompt you in the top-right hand corner of the screen when updates are found. If you want to manually check for updates and install them, follow these steps:

Open the App Store

Click the Apple menu icon in the top left-hand corner of your screen.

The system menu will appear, click the " App Store... " item.

This starts the App Store application.

Go to the Updates tab

Along the top of the App Store window which has just opened will be several tabs (or buttons). Click the one on the far-right named Updates

Find and activate the Safari update

The Update screen may look different to the one in the screenshots. Version numbers shown here are examples and may change depending on what is considered the latest version...

On this screen, the App Store will show you all of the updates which are available to you.

It will bundle all of the System Applications (eg iTunes, Safari, Security Updates etc) which have updates available into one main "Software Update" item - shown in the following image.

If you click the UPDATE button, it will install all of those updates in one go. Notice that in some cases this may also require you to restart your computer.

If you click the UPDATE ALL button, it will install all of the System Application updates, as well as any Third Party updates - you may be required to restart with this option as well.

It is generally a good idea to install all of the available updates, but be aware: this may change how some of your software functions in the future. You should always have a backup of your system before you install System Updates.

Upgrading just Safari

If you want to upgrade just Safari and install none of the other available updates, click the blue " More " link; this will expand the System Applications, allowing you to pick and choose which updates to install.

An expanded list of software which has available updates:

Choose which update/s to install by clicking either the Update or Update all button.

App Store will now update Safari on macOS

The latest version of Safari available for your system will download and install itself. This may take a few minutes depending on the speed of your internet connection.

You can see the blue progress bar showing how much of the installation has occured.

Safari is now up to date

Safari is now shown in the Updates installed in the Last 30 Days section of the App Store Updates.

If you chose to also install other App updates, these should be included there as well.

Congratulations, you have now ensured that your copy of Safari is up to date. Confirm this by using our page to check if your web browser is up to date .

Updating in the future

In normal circumstances, the App Store will continue to check for updates and prompt you to install them. If for some reason App Store wasn't able to update Safari, please speak to your IT Support team for further help.

More guides and help for Safari

Need more help with Safari? Read our other Safari guides .

Clear cache & history

Do i need to clear my cache.

Not sure why you've been asked to clear your cache? We can explain. Why you need to clear your cache

What is a cache?

Before you consider clearing your browser cache, you should know what it is! Learn a little bit about browser caches

Is it safe to clear my cache?

Are there any risks to clearing your cache? Find out if it's ok to clear your cache

Update my web browser

Do i need to update my browser.

Find out if your browser is out of date Is my browser out of date?

Why should I update my browser?

There are very good reasons to, find out here! Why update your browser?

Is it free to update Chrome?

Find out about the cost of updating Chrome... Does Chrome cost anything?

What does "Update browser" mean?

What does it actually mean? What does it mean to update your browser

Get help with our guides

How to enable javascript.

Change your JavaScript settings Guide to enabling Javascript

How to enable Cookies

Configure your cookie settings for privacy Guide to enabling cookies

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Why are cookies useful? Do you need them? What's the deal with cookies?

How to update your browser

Old software puts you at risk. Keep your browser fresh and up to date

Clear Cache, Cookies and History

How to reset your browsing history How to reset your browser

Try a different web browser

Different web browsers have different features - try a different one to see if you prefer it. Experiment a bit!

Use a VPN to hide your IP address

We recommend NordVPN to hide your IP address or to unblock websites. Hide your IP Address

Apple updates macOS Safari with a new look, but you can turn off the big changes

A trip to preferences will tone down the design changes.

By Mitchell Clark

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Apple has released a redesigned version of Safari for macOS Big Sur and Catalina. The update, announced as part of the upcoming macOS Monterey , was released the same day as iOS and iPadOS 15, bringing the web browser’s new look and features across Apple’s platforms.

To update to the new Safari 15, you can go to System Preferences > Software Update, where it should automatically refresh and show up. Unlike updates to macOS, you shouldn’t have to reboot your computer after updating Safari.

The development behind this version of Safari has been interesting. The full OS update that it was originally a part of, which also brings features like Universal Control and Quick Notes, isn’t here yet, but Apple decided to ship the new Safari anyway. For those who have upgraded to iOS 15 , that’s a good thing — it means that you can immediately use tab groups across all your devices. The update also includes features like better tracking protection and automatic switching to HTTPS for sites that support it.

While the Safari update brings new features, it also brings a new design. Apple’s made several changes to it since it was announced (though not as many as it’s made to Safari for iPhone ), tweaking it to be less starkly minimal. Looks-wise, it’s still a major change from Safari 14, but there are preferences that you can tweak to walk back some of the more distracting changes. If you don’t want websites to be able to change the color of your tab bar, you can go to Safari’s preferences > Tabs, and uncheck “Show color in tab bar.” If you want your tabs to be on their own row, you can switch from Compact mode to Separate.

Unchecking “Automatically collapse tab titles into icons” turns the tab bar into a sort of carousel when you have too many of them. I certainly don’t prefer it, but it’s an option if that’s your sort of thing.

While Safari 15 takes a bit to get used to (I'm still getting over the learning curve myself), Tab Groups is a great feature to share between my iPhone and computer. Safari 15 also comes with the usual host of security updates , though none seem too severe. After you update, be sure to let us know what you think of the new design — is it a breath of fresh air or just another refresh that you’ll grudgingly get used to?

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How to Update Safari on Any Mac (Even Really Old Ones)

How do updates for Safari work?

When it came to keeping Safari up to date, Apple has typically issued new updates for their web browser through the Mac App Store. However, with the introduction of macOS Mojave 10.14 back in 2018, Apple decided to bundle Safari updates into system updates in macOS, so then when you update macOS, Safari will also be updated.

How to update Safari on your Mac with macOS High Sierra or earlier

For those with an older Mac with macOS 10.13 High Sierra, 10.12 Sierra, 10.11 El Capitan or older, updating Safari is done using the Mac App Store. To update, first head to the Mac App Store and click Updates . At the top of the list of updates should be any pending macOS updates. Click where it says More to see updates available for built-in apps like iTunes or Safari. If there’s an update for Safari, you should see an update button next to it next to Safari. The Safari update should take a few seconds depending on how fast your internet connection is. Once it’s done, Safari is now up to date.

How to update Safari on your Mac with macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur and Monterey

If you have a Mac that has macOS 10.14 Mojave, 10.15 Catalina, 11 Big Sur or 12 Monterey, your updates for Safari are done via System Preferences. To update Safari on your Mac, click the Apple icon on the top left of the menu bar. Then choose System Preferences and go to Software Update . Once there, click where it says More info and you should see any specific Safari updates, if available. To install the Safari updates, just click the Install Now button.

How to update Safari on your Mac with macOS Ventura or newer

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How to update Safari on Mac

The default web browser for macOS is Safari, which is made by Apple. This is one of the most popular privacy options from Apple. Safari has improved significantly over the years, and now includes features such as reading mode, stored passwords, and protection from websites tracking you. Typically, a new version of the web browser comes with each update of macOS or, for example, iTunes. However, if your computer does not support the latest version of macOS, it may still support the latest version of Safari. Here, the web browser can be updated separately, which is normal practice for Apple.

Compared to other apps, updating the Safari browser on Mac is a bit tricky. However, you need to update it regularly to keep it running smoothly. Read on this article to learn how to update Safari browser and why you need it.

Why should I update Safari?

Safari doesn’t get as frequent updates as other browsers. Moreover, Apple releases Safari updates alongside major macOS releases. Therefore, each update is significant and includes several improvements, new features and bug fixes.

In addition, older versions of Safari may not be fully compatible with the latest version of macOS, and the browser could potentially become slow.

Keeping your Safari browser up to date means access to the latest features and protection against new security threats, as well as peak speed and performance.

How do I update Safari on my Mac?

Apple periodically releases new installations with fixed bugs and improvements to Safari. Such updates contain new and improved features for users of the Apple software, the task of which is to facilitate the work on the device, as well as to make it as convenient and comfortable as possible for everyone.

Now, once you decide to upgrade Safari to the latest version, you can start the update process using the following steps.

Use the following steps to get the latest update:

• Click General in the left sidebar.
• Find and select Software Update .

It is also possible to have your Mac update the OS and Safari automatically in response to new updates by ticking the “Automatically keep my Mac up to date” option. You can also go to the Advanced settings to find more options, such as Install app updates from the App Store. For this, click the “i” icon.

How to reset Safari on Mac quickly

No matter your Safari use case, one thing is for sure: Over the years of its use, Safari has accumulated tons of website data that can slow down your browser or, in the worst case, your device as a whole.

If your Safari browser doesn’t work properly, or you just want to start fresh from a clean web engine, the best option is to reset Safari.

Surprisingly, there is no Reset Safari button on Apple devices. As a result, we can reset Safari in two possible ways: manually or using a special tool called App Cleaner & Uninstaller from Nektony.

In either case, a Safari reset consists of a reset of three components:

• Website data

We recommend that you save your time and reset the Safari browser in three clicks by using the App Cleaner & Uninstaller application. You can do this using the following steps:

• Launch App Cleaner & Uninstaller.
• Find Safari in the list of apps.
• Right-click on it and select the Reset application option.

How to reset Safari browser manually

Earlier, we showed how you can reset the Safari browser quickly using a dedicated application. To reset the browser manually, you will have to complete all three steps in turn: reset history, reset website data, and reset the cache.

One of the key factors for comfortable and safe use of your web browser is updating it to the latest version. This is especially relevant for built-in applications such as Safari. In this article, we described why and how you can update your Safari browser.

Also, you should note that it is important to reset Safari from time to time. To do this, you can follow either of the two methods suggested in this guide. However, if you want to save time, we recommend that you use the App Cleaner & Uninstaller application to reset Safari quickly and automatically.

About the author

How to Update Safari on Mac

In this article you will find the following:

No matter Safari’s speed, Apple security experts consistently optimize the browser to counter software incompatibilities and potential cyber threats. As a result, the latest updates of Safari often patch these security flaws as well as resolve other bugs.

In this regard, upgrading Safari on Mac is essential for security measures and accessing new features. For example, with the release of Safari 16.3 in macOS Monterey, users can experience a redesigned sidebar, Quick Note, and other handy enhancements. Now that you know the reasons to download a Safari update, let our team guide you through the steps to take it with ease.

Before we start:   Are you worried about keeping your web browser secure and up-to-date? Why not consider using MacKeeper's Update Tracker —it’s an effortless solution to check for Safari updates on Mac and give you a secure browsing experience.   Here's how to update Safari with MacKeeper’s Update Tracker: Download MacKeeper and install it on your MacBook. Launch the app and access the Update Tracker feature. Click the Rescan button for the tool to automatically check for any outstanding updates to your internet browser or other compatible apps. If any updates are found, follow the on-screen prompts to download them.

• How to check Safari version on MacBook

Have you ever wondered about your internet browser’s version? Checking for Safari updates on Mac ensures you're equipped with the latest features and security enhancements.

Here’s how you can check your current Safari version:

• Open Safari on your MacBook.
• Click on Safari in the menu bar, at the top of your screen.
• Choose About Safari from the drop-down menu to open a pop-up window displaying your current Safari version.

• Does Safari update automatically on Mac

Yes, Safari updates automatically on Mac as part of the macOS update Safari feature. This ensures that your browser stays current with the latest security patches and features without requiring any manual intervention.

To allow automatic updates for Safari , follow these steps:

• Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.
• Choose System Settings > General > Software Update .
• Check the box that says Automatic Updates is on to allow for automatic Safari updates alongside other system updates.

• Should you update Safari on your Mac

Optimising your browsing experience and securing your system is crucial when checking for Safari updates on Mac. Keeping the browser up-to-date improves performance as it can delete cache accumulation as well as safeguard your security when browsing sites online.

Here are the most common benefits of updating Safari on Mac:

• Faster performance
• Increased stability
• Improved user experience
• Better security

1. Faster performance

If your Mac is running slowly , upgrading Safari on a Mac may help to enhance your browsing performance. Each new update introduces improved algorithms and functionalities, leading to a smoother experience. MacBook and iMac users can all enjoy faster performance when regularly updating Safari.

2. Increased stability

Regularly updating Safari can significantly improve stability as each update can minimize crashes while browsing the internet.

3. Improved user experience

Another benefit of updating and changing Safari version on Mac is how the newest changes can improve your overall experience. If you’re struggling with the internet so slow it’s affecting Safari, updating it may help due to the newest functionalities and interfaces it offers.

4. Better security

It’s advised you check for Safari updates on Mac often to safeguard and prevent cyber threats whilst you’re online. Each update implements crucial security patches to improve privacy and allow you to browse the internet securely.

• How to update Safari on your Mac

Deciding to update Safari browser on Mac regularly is a must, as you’re likely using the Safari app every day for work, study, or personal use. You can easily make sure Safari is up-to-date with all the latest features, based on your macOS, and we’ll guide you through step-by-step how to:

• Upgrade to the latest version of Safari in macOS Ventura and later
• Upgrade to the newest Safari version for macOS Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina and Mojave

Update to the most recent Safari version in macOS High Sierra and earlier

Update to the latest version of safari in macos ventura and later.

To keep up with the latest advancements and features, upgrading to the newest Safari version in macOS Ventura and later versions is vital.

Below, you'll find the steps to update Safari on your macOS system:

• Open System Settings.
• Click on General > Software Update.
• Allow your Mac to search for available updates.
• If a Safari update is listed, click Update next to Safari.
• Provide your administrator password if prompted and allow the update to download and install.

Upgrade to the newest Safari version for macOS Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, and Mojave

Now, get familiar with the process of upgrading Safari on Mac to the newest version for users on various macOS versions, including Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, and Mojave.

To allow macOS update Safari for Mojave or later:

• Go to System Settings > General and select Software Update .
• Wait for your computer to check for updates.
• If there’s an available update, click Upgrade Now .
• To automatically receive macOS and browser updates, check the box to On to allow your device to automatically keep your MacOS up to date.
• Wait for your Mac to install any updates.

If you use macOS High Sierra or earlier, you can upgrade Safari on Mac by simply upgrading macOS via the App Store. We should warn you, however, that it’s not always possible to upgrade older Macs to the latest version of macOS.

Here’s how to update macOS High Sierra or earlier via the App Store to simultaneously install the newest Safari updates:

• Open the App Store , and select the Updates tab.
• Find the latest macOS version, and click Download .
• Enter your Apple ID information.
• When the download is complete, go to the Applications folder.
• Open the macOS installation file you just downloaded.
• In the window that opens, click Continue .
• Accept the terms of the software license agreement.
• Select the installation destination, and click Install .
• When prompted, click Restart .
• Wait for the upgrade to complete. That might require several restart cycles.

• Update Safari browser with MacKeeper

If you want to update Safari browser on Mac alongside all your other apps, use MacKeeper’s Update Tracker to do all the hard work for you. Our tool allows you to update apps to their newest versions in just one click.

Here’s how to keep your apps up-to-date with MacKeeper:

• Download and launch MacKeeper .
• Select Update Tracker on the left.
• Click Scan for Updates .
• Click Update All .

• Optimizing Safari updates for a seamless Mac browsing experience

As you keep your Safari app updated, your confidence in its security and performance should grow. These routine updates, accessible through manual checks or system updates, are streamlined for ease. You can also accelerate the process with the aid of MacKeeper’s Update Tracker —a tool for Apple users to stay on top of all the latest app upgrades and changes.

1. What is the latest version of the Safari browser for Mac?

At the time of writing, the latest version of Safari for Mac is 17.1. If you need a reminder on how to check for a new Safari version on Mac, follow the steps below:

• Open Safari .
• Click About Safari from the menu bar at the top of your screen.
• In the window that opens, check the browser's version.

2. Why is my Safari not updating?

With newer versions of macOS, your Safari browser might not automatically update as Apple has shifted away from browser updates via the App Store. To update Safari browser on Mac with OS-installed updates rather than manual changes, you’ll need to adjust your App Store preferences to allow Safari updates once again.

Here’s how to adjust your App Store preferences to upgrade Safari:

• In Finder , click Go and select Go to Folder.
• Enter ~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.appstore.plist and click Go .
• Select the com.apple.appstore.plist file and move it to the Trash.
• Quit Safari .
• Go to the App Store , and click Update .

3. Can I install an older version of Safari?

No, you can’t install or change Safari version on Mac to an older one.

You can downgrade your macOS to force Safari to downgrade. However, this action isn’t recommended by our experts, as an older version may have unpatched security issues putting your cybersecurity at risk.

4. Can I update Safari without updating macOS?

Yes, you can check and update your current version of Safari without the need to update a Mac . It can be done by manually updating the browser from the App Store. Keep in mind that if you choose to manually update Safari, it’s only available for older OS versions.

To download Safari updates without updating OS X, do the following:

• Open the App Store from the Apple menu .
• In the window that opens, click Update .

5. How to make sure Safari is up-to-date?

To ensure Safari is up-to-date, regularly checking for the newest updates will help you stay ahead of new features. This makes sure you have a safer browsing experience.

Here are the most common ways to check Safari is up-to-date:

• Check for updates via the App Store.
• Check for Safari updates directly within the Safari browser.
• Access Safari updates via System Settings.
• Utilize MacKeeper’s Update Tracker for streamlined updates.
• Ensure your macOS system is also kept up-to-date, as Safari updates often come bundled with system updates.

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How To Update Safari on an Old Mac: What to Know

For those looking to update Safari on an Old Mac, I don’t really have the best news. I was looking to update the Safari browser on an older system, and what I discovered was a bit of a letdown. While you have some options, they’re a bit limited. Continue reading to learn more about Safari on an old Mac.

How to Update Safari on an Old Mac

If you need to update Safari on an old Mac, unfortunately, Safari is connected to whatever version of macOS you’re using . If you are unable to update to the latest version of macOS, you will only be able to use the version of Safari that supports your operating system. However, there is a way to check to see if you can update Safari.

1. Check for Safari Update

If you want to check to see if you can update Safari, then you will want to check your System Preferences/Settings the same way you would if you were updating macOS. Note that the photos below are just examples of the steps you will take.

Time needed:  2 minutes

To check for an update to Safari.

Unfortunately, this is likely to be your only option in terms of specifically using Safari on your Old Mac.

2. Use a Third-Party Browser

If you are unable to update Safari, remember that there are plenty of third-party browsers available, even for older devices. Some users recommend WaterFox for its similarity to Safari and ease of use on older machines. Of course, Firefox is also incredibly popular and is available on the Apple App Store . Personally, I am a big fan of Google Chrome and it is also available on the Apple App Store .

While this may not be the best news, you still want to do your best to keep your browser as up-to-date as you can. This is especially true if you are using an older machine that is no longer receiving security updates. In fact, you may want to consider how to protect an old Mac . You may also want to look at the best antivirus for an old Mac .

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New AI Features Reportedly Coming to Safari in iOS 18

Safari will gain a series of AI-powered features and UI enhancements in iOS 18 , AppleInsider reports .

• An "Intelligent Search" browser assistant tool that leverages Apple's on-device AI technology to identify key topics and phrases on webpages for summarization purposes.
• A "Web Eraser" tool that allows users to remove unwanted portions of webpages easily. Erasure is persistent, remaining even when revisiting a site unless changes are reverted.
• A new, quick-access menu emerging from the address bar that consolidates page tools, bringing over some functions that currently sit in the Share Sheet and placing them alongside the new tools.

The iPadOS and macOS versions of Safari are also expected to align further. These new features are purportedly undergoing evaluation alongside internal builds of ‌iOS 18‌ and macOS 15 ahead of their unveiling at Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference (WWDC) in June. Earlier this month, backend code on Apple's servers suggested that a new Safari browsing assistant is in the works, corroborating this report.

Farther in the future, Apple is said to be working on a more powerful version of Visual Look Up that allows users to obtain information on products when browsing through images. The feature is expected to be released sometime in 2025.

Last week, Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman said that ‌iOS 18‌ will "overhaul" many of Apple's built-in apps , including Notes, Mail, Photos , and Fitness. Apple's next-generation operating systems are almost certain to be previewed during Apple's WWDC keynote on June 10, and the updates should be widely released in the fall.

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A "Web Eraser" tool that allows users to remove unwanted portions of webpages easily. Erasure is persistent, remaining even when revisiting a site unless changes are reverted.

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How to close all your Safari tabs at once on iPhone

There are two types of iPhone users: those that religiously close out their Safari tabs and those that have hundreds of tabs open at any given moment. At some point, there comes a time when you need to clear out all of your open Safari tabs and declutter your browsing experience. It can be a pain to close out every single tab individually, but luckily you don't have to. In iOS 17, there's a hidden button that'll let you close out all the tabs in a given Tab Group simultaneously. If you've been manually closing out tabs, you need to learn this crucial iPhone trick for Safari.

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How to close tabs in safari on iphone.

Recent versions of Safari split up tabs into Tab Groups , and this is something to keep in mind when trying to clear all your tabs. All iPhone users will have at least two Tab Groups: Start Page and Private . If you've created custom Tab Groups — either on your iPhone or on a device synced with iCloud — you'll have to repeat the steps below for each Tab Group.

• Open Safari on your iPhone.
• Tap the Tabs button in the bottom right corner of the toolbar (it looks like two squares stacked on one another).
• Press the X button to close an individual tab.
• Hold the Done button and press Close all tabs to clear all your tabs simultaneously.
• Repeat the process as needed throughout your Tab Groups in Safari on iOS. Close

Why you should clear Safari tabs regularly

Safari won't let you open more than 500 tabs in a single Tab Group, so all iPhone users will have to close out old tabs eventually. However, there's a case to be made for closing Safari tabs far more frequently than that. Having minimal Safari tabs in a Tab Group can make it easier to go back and forth between the ones you really need. Plus, you may notice a slight performance benefit to running Safari with fewer tabs, although it isn't as big of a deal on the newest iPhones . Still, it's a pain to close out Safari tabs on iPhone individually, so using the hidden Close all tabs button is incredibly helpful.

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Iphone 15 review: a major yet sneaky upgrade from its predecessor.

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Siri for iOS 18 to gain massive AI upgrade via Apple's Ajax LLM

Apple AI will make Siri, Safari, Spotlight, and Messages better

Over the past several months, there's been various chatter regarding AI-related features bound for iOS 18, and AppleInsider has since learned some specifics on the functionality of Apple's Ajax large language model (LLM), as well as information on features the company has been testing alongside it.

This report focuses only on information that could be verified independently through people familiar with the software. In addition to specific features, they've collectively shared some info on the iPhone maker's internal AI test environments as well.

Before exploring the planned AI upgrades in detail, it's important to consider the motivation behind Apple's move to develop its own generative AI technology and what it aims to achieve by doing so.

Why is Apple incorporating generative AI into its upcoming operating systems?

As the popularity of generative AI software continues to increase, it's only logical for Apple to apply LLMs for the betterment of its existing default applications, which are widely deployed across billions of devices worldwide. Those familiar with the company's early efforts believe the company maintains a clear vision for its AI-enhanced apps and services, with an unmistakable sense of direction.

Apple's approach to generative AI will focus on practical benefits for the end-user while simultaneously attempting to preserve user privacy by using on-device LLM .

Rather than offering short-term entertainment value in the form of an AI chatbot, the company aims to improve its existing portfolio of system applications via generative AI. Features like text summarization, document analysis, and AI-enhanced search options would all directly benefit end-users in meaningful ways.

Apple intends to introduce AI-related improvements to several of its built-in system apps beginning next month, including Siri , Spotlight Search, Messages, Mail, and Safari .

AI-powered text summarization for Safari and Siri

As detailed in our exclusive report on the next iteration of Safari, Apple is testing AI-related enhancements for the app, with text summarization being one of the key features in the works.

With the release of Safari 18, Apple is expected to introduce article summarization through a new Intelligent Search feature — meaning users will have the option to generate a brief summary of any webpage currently on screen.

Apple's built-in AI software can analyze the keywords and phrases within a webpage or document and generate a short summary containing only the most important information.

Siri is also due to receive a similar update, according to people familiar with Apple's plans, as the company intends to integrate the digital assistant more closely with its built-in Messages application.

The company's AI software can analyze message contents in pre-release versions of Apple's next-gen operating systems. The LLM is also reportedly capable of generating responses that relay the content of messages in a simplified way.

Internal test environments offer significant insight into the overall capabilities of Ajax, especially regarding on-device response generation - another key feature Apple is working on.

Ajax will be able to generate basic responses entirely on-device

Apple has been exploring offline response generation software for over a year at this point, and it could very likely make its debut next month at WWDC in one form or another.

Perhaps the most valuable feature Apple has developed is the software's capability to generate sentence-long responses and function unabated without cloud-based processing.

When provided with text input, the on-device AI generates multiple responses within a matter of milliseconds. Within Apple's test environments, these responses are organized based on accuracy, speed, and other relevant factors.

In creating responses, Apple's Ajax LLM will check whether or not the text input contains the name of a saved contact and display the contact's information, if necessary. The software will also communicate with the Calendar app and take into account events when creating a response.

While Ajax can generate rudimentary text-based responses on-device, more advanced replies or text summaries appear to necessitate server-side processing. This aligns with other reports claiming that Apple is in talks with OpenAI and Google about licensing their cloud-based AI technology.

As for generating text from a prompt, Apple reportedly explored ways of doing this entirely on-device, but it remains unclear whether it succeeded in accomplishing offline text generation.

Though more sophisticated AI features will likely require connectivity, Apple's on-device processing can still be used for more basic features, such as text analysis and rudimentary summarization through keywords and sentences.

Text analysis and summarization for Safari and Messages

In its AI-related test applications and associated environments, Apple strongly emphasizes text analysis and summarization - all of which are handled by the company's on-device LLM, Ajax.

Before testing can begin, Apple's engineers first provide the LLM with the necessary text input. The software can receive text input through a dedicated text box, through digital documents, or it can use information from the Safari and Messages applications.

Upon receiving text input, Apple's on-device AI selects keywords and phrases within a text, designating them as text topics. Sentences containing explanations, descriptions, definitions, or those which denote varieties of objects are also isolated from the remainder of the text.

In analyzing texts, the software takes into account all relevant information available. It can recognize and classify entities such as companies, people, and locations. For instance, if a name appears at the top of a text, the software will likely recognize the name as belonging to the text's author.

The selected key sentences and topics ultimately provide a rudimentary text summary, which Apple's on-device response generation software can use for a more coherent answer.

As the company's text analysis software is capable of functioning entirely on-device, this could give Apple an advantage against the competition in the area of privacy protection.

How will the new AI improvements affect user privacy?

Apple's on-device AI software also appears to have a strong focus on preserving the privacy of its users, which would align with the company's existing privacy-focused features - such as iCloud Private Relay.

Even in Apple's test environments, user privacy warnings still exist. According to individuals familiar with the software, the company's test utilities will display a message before the Ajax LLM uses any information from Safari or the Messages app.

By eliminating the need for cloud-based processing — at least in the most basic of situations — the chance for privacy-related issues is greatly reduced. If user data is not transmitted, the odds of it becoming compromised are obviously much lower.

Compared to existing implementations of AI in rival products and services, Apple's implementation is arguably innovative in its attempt at privacy preservation and efficient on-device processing.

How does Ajax compare against the competition?

Apple's AI-related improvements look to compete with the ever-increasing number of AI-enabled applications, which are available from a wide variety of third parties.

Virtually every app, from Slack to Google Chrome, now features some degree of AI integration, in addition to the various AI chatbot apps currently on the market.

Products such as the Rabbit R1 or Humane AI Pin could also be regarded as competition , as they're commonly perceived as virtual personal assistants or smartphone replacements.

By creating an AI-infused version of Siri with on-device processing, Apple hopes to overshadow many existing implementations of generative AI - especially AI-themed physical products.

Both the Rabbit R1 and the Humane AI Pin function through cloud-based processing, with the latter even requiring a separate monthly subscription to operate. These devices are also commonly regarded as unfinished or only partially functional, as noted in various user reviews.

An AI-capable version of Siri would also allow for greater privacy protection with on-device processing, all without the cost of an added monthly subscription. Given Apple's established market presence, quality control practices, and available resources, Siri has renewed potential to become a serious competitive threat.

During Apple's most recent earnings call on May 2, Apple's CEO Tim Cook fielded two questions about the company's monetization of generative AI but did not provide concrete responses. Earlier in the call, Cook affirmed Apple's "unwavering focus on privacy" and said that the company has "advantages that differentiate" it from the competition regarding AI.

Relative to AI chatbot applications and services such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, an updated version of Siri would have its advantages in the form of on-device functionality. It would also leverage its existing integration with other built-in Apple applications, allowing for greater functionality than any ordinary chatbot.

As for Safari's upcoming Intelligent Browsing feature with text summarization, it likely aims to compete against prominent third-party browsers such as Arc Browser, which also contains its own text summarization feature.

Given Apple's recent interest in artificial intelligence, we should see some of these features debut at the annual Worldwide Developers' Conference later this year.

13 Comments

Spotlight search. Hope that this upgrade provides some useful search. As Spotlight search currently stands you will be lucky, very lucky, to find anything of any use on the Mac.  The Mac is a great machine and so is the iPhone. But search on the Mac and on the iPhone is about as terrible as it gets.  Any time I am stuck with having to look for a file or document I reach for an anti migraine tablet. I know I am going to get a massive headache at all the useless junk that is thrown at me which has nothing to do with the search criteria that I entered.  >:)

The key question is: what will be the device hardware requirements for AI aided services? For instance my iPhone XS is the oldest that can run the current iOS 17, so it may well not be supported by iOS 18. While my XS still works well — even the original battery! — and does everything I want it to, I may be prodded to upgrade by the availability of useful AI.

neilm said: The key question is: what will be the device hardware requirements for AI aided services? For instance my iPhone XS is the oldest that can run the current iOS 17, so it may well not be supported by iOS 18. While my XS still works well — even the original battery! — and does everything I want it to, I may be prodded to upgrade by the availability of useful AI. I think the worst case is it will be A14/M1 and above. That’s when they introduced the 16-core Apple Neural Engine NPU. But maybe the cutoff will be an 8-core NPU, which was introduced with the A12/A12X, so your XS might be okay? One last hurrah before it gets left behind next year?

neilm said: The key question is: what will be the device hardware requirements for AI aided services? For instance my iPhone XS is the oldest that can run the current iOS 17, so it may well not be supported by iOS 18. While my XS still works well — even the original battery! — and does everything I want it to, I may be prodded to upgrade by the availability of useful AI. That’s why new iPad announcements May 7 and of course iPhone 16 in September.

Pema said: Spotlight search. Hope that this upgrade provides some useful search. As Spotlight search currently stands you will be lucky, very lucky, to find anything of any use on the Mac.  The Mac is a great machine and so is the iPhone. But search on the Mac and on the iPhone is about as terrible as it gets.  Any time I am stuck with having to look for a file or document I reach for an anti migraine tablet. I know I am going to get a massive headache at all the useless junk that is thrown at me which has nothing to do with the search criteria that I entered.  >:) Really? I find Spotlight great. Especially compared to Windows search, which is makes a chocolate teaspoon seem otherworldly.

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More From Forbes

Is google chrome still tracking you.

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If you’re one of the billions relying on Chrome as your default browser, then Google’s worrying new tracking update will impact you—here’s what you need to know...

New Chrome tracking warning impacts billions of users

And so, the ongoing debacle around Google’s so-called deprecation of the tracking cookies that underpin Chrome’s advertising machine rolls on for another year. We had expected these nasty little trackers to be banished by the year-end, but we’ve just been warned it will be some time in 2025—at the earliest—before they’re gone.

Let’s be very clear—these cookies bring no user benefit at all, it’s inarguably in the best interests of Chrome’s billions of users that they go for good. But the targeted marketing industry they feed needs an alternative, and that means Google needs to design and deploy it. Regulators are running the process, essentially, and so Google has no alternative but to work to their schedule, requirements and priorities.

Google’s answer is its so-called Privacy Sandbox —essentially an evolving collection of (potentially) more privacy-centric solutions that give marketeers what they need while protecting users from the tracking abuses that have made so many headlines.

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Or as Google puts it, “the Privacy Sandbox initiative aims to create technologies that both protect people's privacy online and give companies and developers tools to build thriving digital businesses. The Privacy Sandbox reduces cross-site and cross-app tracking while helping to keep online content and services free for all.”

The problem is that Google sits both sides of the fence on this—the world’s most valuable online advertising machine as well as the developer of the browser technology responsible for protecting the privacy of billions of users.

If that sounds awkward, that’s because it is.

Bad tracking cookies—as opposed to good identity assuring session cookies—were due to be eradicated in 2023 until this latest update—itself a delay. The timing is being driven by an ongoing process between Google and the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which is seeking to assure the interests of the wider marketing industry—not just Google’s—are factored into what happens.

And while in its quarterly report just out, the CMA acknowledges that “Google has followed the required process set out in the commitments and is engaging with us (and the ICO) to resolve our remaining concerns ahead of third-party cookie deprecation,” the CMA also says it has concluded that “further progress is needed by Google to resolve our competition concerns ahead of deprecation.”

For its part, Google says that “we recognize that there are ongoing challenges related to reconciling divergent feedback from the industry, regulators and developers, and will continue to engage closely with the entire ecosystem. It's also critical that the CMA has sufficient time to review all evidence including results from industry tests, which the CMA has asked market participants to provide by the end of June.”

All of which has led to this latest delay.

“Given both of these significant considerations,” Google says, “we will not complete third-party cookie deprecation during the second half of Q4. We remain committed to engaging closely with the CMA and ICO and we hope to conclude that process this year. Assuming we can reach an agreement, we envision proceeding with third-party cookie deprecation starting early next year.”

Google has looked at various alternatives to tracking cookies as part of its Privacy Sandbox, the latest being high-level topics to guide advertising rather than very specific browsing histories, and collating users into similarly themed groups rather than digitally fingerprinting them individually.

But the ad industry argues that this creates an asymmetry of information between Google and the rest, and that competition will be skewed with too much power in the search giant’s hands; poacher/gamekeeper optics, essentially.

Unfortunately, all this is irrelevant if you’re a Chrome user—it’s just kicking the death of tracking cookies further down the road. And while we can hope that this process is heading to a conclusion on this latest timetable, there’s absolutely no guarantee there won’t be further delays if not some form of long drawn out stalemate.

Meanwhile, users clearly have the choice of opting for a non-cookie browser such as Firefox or Safari—for those using Apple devices, or to switch on Chrome’s Incognito Mode, which isn’t perfect but is much more private than standard browsing.

This latest delay was fairly predictable, and a few months down the line we’ll know whether Google is any closer to ironing out the current difficulties in designing a new system that can work at the same vast scale as tracking cookies. It might be that the devil you know mantra is somewhere behind the scenes, and it’s actually in much of the industry’s interests to keep the status quo for some time to come.

As I’ve said before, the fast emergence of AI as a search alternative is coming up alongside this cookie debate, and that will change the narrative as well as creating a whole raft of new privacy and tracking concerns of its own.

Meanwhile, we can take some comfort from the fact that Chrome’s user base is far better informed as to the tracking mechanics at play than was the case all those years ago, when Google first assured that cookies would soon be gone.

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