Safari has always been one of the most recognizable apps on the iPhone, but its design has not stayed still. When Apple shifted the address bar to the bottom of the screen in iOS 18, the change divided users. Some liked the convenience of controls closer to the thumb, while others found it broke years of browsing habits. With iOS 26, Apple has introduced a new Compact layout as the default, but importantly, it has also given users the option to bring back the older style from iOS 18 in just a few steps.
The Compact layout is designed to minimize clutter. The URL bar sits at the bottom with key actions hidden behind a menu, giving the browser a clean look. It works well for one-handed use and pairs with Apple’s translucent design that adapts to light or dark mode depending on the site you are viewing. For many, this feels modern and efficient. But not everyone wants their browser stripped back, and that is where the older layouts come in.
If you prefer the Safari look introduced in iOS 18, here is how you can restore it in iOS 26:
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Open the Settings app on your iPhone running iOS 26.
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Scroll down and tap Apps > Tap Safari to access its settings.
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Under the Tabs section, you will see three options: Compact, Bottom, and Top. Select Bottom to bring back the iOS 18 style with the address bar at the bottom, or choose Top to move it back to the top.
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Close Safari and reopen it to see the layout updated instantly.
These options are not permanent, which means you can switch between layouts whenever you like. The bottom tab bar is ideal if you want everything within easy reach, while the top placement is more traditional and feels closer to the desktop browsing experience. The Compact layout, on the other hand, is best suited for those who want the maximum amount of screen space. Having all three available in iOS 26 means you no longer have to settle for a design that does not match your preferences.
Apple’s decision to include these choices shows how much the company has shifted toward customization. Instead of forcing everyone into one new interface, iOS 26 acknowledges that different users browse differently. For those who struggled with the changes from iOS 18, being able to restore the old layout is a welcome return to familiarity. For others, the Compact design may become the new normal. Either way, Safari is now more flexible than ever.
