How to use Private Browsing in Safari on an iPhone

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

In Private Browsing, Safari does not remember the pages you visit, your searches or what you type into forms. It also blocks known trackers. It is useful on a shared phone or when buying a present.

Step by step

1. Open Safari

   Any page will do.

   Done

2. Tap the More button

   It shows three dots. On iOS 17 and earlier, tap the Tabs button with two squares instead.

   Done

3. Tap New Private Tab

   On iOS 17 and earlier, swipe to the Private tab group and tap the plus.

   Done

4. Check the address bar

   A dark address bar means Private Browsing is on. A light one means normal browsing.

   Done

5. Return to normal tabs

   Tap More, then New Tab. Your private tabs stay open in the background until you close them.

   Done

Good to know

Private tabs can lock when you are not using them and open only with Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode. Switch on Require Face ID to Unlock Private Browsing under Settings, Apps, Safari.

Private Browsing does not make you invisible. Your internet provider, your employer's network and the websites themselves still see the visit.

Downloads and bookmarks you save in a private tab are kept.

To remove what normal browsing has stored: how to clear Safari history on an iPhone.

In short: Safari, More, New Private Tab. Dark address bar means private.