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iOS 26: Restore Safari Old Layout Easily

Are you missing the familiar Safari tab layout from earlier iOS versions? Many iPhone users have found the default “Compact” design in iOS 26 unfamiliar and inconvenient for everyday browsing. Luckily, iOS 26 makes it easy to restore Safari’s old layout from iOS 18 without any complicated steps. In just a few taps, you can switch to the classic tab styles—either the top or bottom tab layout—so that browsing feels comfortable and intuitive again. This guide will walk you through how to restore Safari old layout in iOS 26, explain the differences between layouts, and help you choose the best one for your iPhone experience.

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Why iPhone Users Prefer the Old Safari Layout

When Apple introduced the new Compact Safari design, the goal was to save screen space and create a cleaner interface. However, many iPhone users quickly realized that it made simple tasks—like switching tabs, accessing bookmarks, or sharing pages—slightly more complicated. Instead of having immediate access to familiar buttons, you often need an extra tap on the three-dot menu to reveal options that were once visible all the time.

For users who prioritize convenience and speed, this new setup can feel like a downgrade. That’s why restoring Safari old layout in iOS 26 has become a popular search query among iPhone owners. Apple seems to have listened to user feedback by adding layout flexibility in iOS 26. By giving users the option to choose between Compact, Bottom, and Top layouts, Apple now allows you to customize Safari to fit your browsing style.

The old Safari layout offers several advantages:

• Faster access to tools: The old layout puts sharing, bookmarks, and tab controls where you expect them.

• Reduced learning curve: If you used iOS 18 Safari, switching back makes the interface instantly familiar.

• Better one-handed use: Depending on your preference, the bottom layout keeps controls reachable for your thumb.

Understanding why these changes matter will help you decide which layout to pick when you restore Safari old layout in iOS 26.

How to Restore Safari Old Layout in iOS 26

Switching back to the old Safari layout is simple, and it only takes a few moments in your iPhone’s Settings app. Whether you prefer the top or bottom tab bar, iOS 26 gives you the flexibility to choose. Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone.

2. Scroll down and tap “Apps,” then select Safari from the list.

3. Find the “Tabs” section.

4. Choose either “Bottom” or “Top” instead of the default “Compact” option.

After making your selection, Safari will immediately switch to the chosen layout. There’s no need to restart your device or update additional settings. You can test the layout by opening Safari and browsing a few tabs to confirm that it feels just like the old iOS 18 design.

• Bottom Layout: Keeps all Safari controls at the bottom of the screen, making it ideal for one-handed use.

• Top Layout: Places the address bar and controls at the top, resembling a desktop-style browser and the classic iOS 18 look.

If you ever want to switch back to Compact mode, you can repeat the steps and select the Compact layout again.

Comparing Safari Layout Options in iOS 26

To make the best choice when you restore Safari old layout in iOS 26, it helps to understand how the three available layouts differ:

• Compact Layout (Default): This design prioritizes screen space by placing the URL bar and key actions in a single row. Most options are hidden behind a three-dot menu, which can slow down quick actions like sharing or accessing bookmarks.

• Bottom Layout: This is user-friendly for one-handed browsing. Controls remain at the bottom of the screen, which is especially useful for larger iPhone models where reaching the top of the screen is inconvenient.

• Top Layout: This mirrors the classic desktop browser experience. All controls are at the top, making it familiar for users who prefer traditional browsing and want a consistent look across devices.

Most users restoring Safari old layout in iOS 26 choose the bottom or top layouts because they provide immediate access to tools without extra taps. If you value speed and familiarity, these layouts will improve your overall iPhone browsing experience.

Why Customizing Safari Layout Enhances Your iPhone Experience

Restoring the old Safari layout is more than just a visual change—it directly impacts how smoothly you interact with your iPhone. A layout that matches your browsing habits can save time and reduce frustration. With iOS 26, Apple is striking a balance between modern design and user preference, allowing everyone to customize Safari based on comfort.

Whether you’re an everyday iPhone user or rely on Safari for work, these options give you the best of both worlds: the sleekness of Apple’s new design philosophy and the practicality of classic tab bars. By learning how to restore Safari old layout in iOS 26, you can improve efficiency, reduce extra taps, and enjoy a browsing experience that feels familiar and intuitive.

If you’ve been hesitating to update to iOS 26 because of Safari’s new look, this flexibility should give you confidence. Switching layouts takes seconds, and you can always experiment to see which style suits your daily routine best.

By following this guide, you can quickly restore Safari old layout in iOS 26 and enjoy the iPhone browsing experience you know and love. With Apple now offering layout choices, users no longer have to compromise between modern design and usability. Take a few moments to update your settings, and your Safari browser will feel right at home again.