Safari default settings has no effect on my iPad

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Level 1

17 points

Safari default settings has no effect on my iPad

I have Safari set as the default browser on my iPad ,but it doesn’t appear to actually work.

When I open a web page the bookmark icon isn’t available.

I have found that if I click the “ action” (?) icon ( square with an arrow) a drop down box appears & one of the options is “ open in Safari” clicking that changes the appearance of the bar ( toolbar?) and the bookmark icon has appeared & works.

The first image shows how it looks after I have clicked the Open in Safari option & the second image shows how the page opens usually.

[Edited by Moderator]

Original Title: Safari default setting has no effect.

iPad, iPadOS 18

Posted on Jun 9, 2025 01:19 AM

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Answer 1

John Galt

Level 10

153,634 points

Jun 16, 2025 05:45 AM in response to Waetla

This is what you're looking for:

That is the Google app. Do you see how it resembles the second screenshot in your initial post?

If you do not want to use the Google app for browsing, remove it according to Remove or delete apps from iPad - Apple Support.

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Answer 2

John Galt

Level 10

153,634 points

Jun 9, 2025 07:07 AM in response to Waetla

I understand Safari is set as that iPad's default browser app but the second screenshot is not the Safari app. What did you use to load that page?

The "jigsaw puzzle piece" icon in the Safari Smart Search field indicates the presence of a Safari Extension. Consider potential adverse effects: Get extensions to customize Safari on iPad - Apple Support

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Answer 3

John Galt

Level 10

153,634 points

Jun 15, 2025 10:10 AM in response to Waetla

I understand, although the image you posted is not loading for me. To resolve the uncertainty, please open the App Switcher and tell me the name of the app that is open. Clearly it is not Safari, so what is the name of that app?

Edit: I can see that image after posting my reply. The "Your post could not be saved" problem happens with this site from time to time as it undergoes some improvements. In fact it happened just now, while attempting to update my post.

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