Safari in iOS 26 got three tab bar layout options
By ForGeeks Apple has redesigned the Safari browser interface in iOS 26, adding a third tab bar layout mode, Compact. iPhone users can now choose between Top, Bottom, and Compact options, each of which is customized to match the Liquid Glass visual style.
The updated Safari has semi-transparent floating panels, and controls are now visually separated from the edges of the screen to blend in with scrolling content. The new interface is inspired by the system’s design themes and adapts to the user’s position on the page.
Three Safari panel display modes
Beginning with iOS 15, Apple offered two panel layouts – Bottom (Tab Bar) and Top (Single Tab). In iOS 26, these were renamed Bottom and Top, respectively. They were joined by a new Compact mode, which became the default option.
In Compact address bar is located at the bottom, between the Back button and the control menu (—). It is separated from the edge of the screen and automatically shrinks when you scroll down and returns to its original state when you scroll up.
Bottom retains the Tab Bar principle: the bar is placed at the bottom of the screen and expands to full-screen mode when needed. However, it is now also implemented as a floating bar and visually follows the Compact when minimized.
Top remains the most traditional option. The bar is placed at the top of the screen, as in earlier versions of Safari before iOS 15. In iOS 26, it’s also now floating, with rounded edges to match the shape of the display, and automatically disappears when you scroll.
How to change the display mode
Users can manually select the layout they want under Settings → Safari → Tabs. Three options are available: Compact, Bottom, and Top. All are completely redesigned to match the overall aesthetic of Liquid Glass.
It’s notable that iPadOS 26 and macOS 26 Compact mode is missing from Safari. It’s not yet clear if this is a temporary fix in the beta or if Apple has decided to drop the option on other devices.
The Safari in iOS 26 gets three tab bar layouts was first published on ITZine.ru.
