Apple restores compact tab bar in Safari with macOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 updates

Apple has responded to user requests by restoring Safari's compact tab bar layout in the first beta versions of macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4. This interface option, which consolidates the address bar and tabs into a single row, was unexpectedly removed when macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26 launched last fall despite being a longtime Safari feature.

The compact tab bar's disappearance in the initial Tahoe release was particularly noticeable because it had been available since Safari's major redesign several years ago. Many power users preferred this condensed layout for maximizing vertical screen space, especially on smaller displays like the 11-inch iPad Pro. Its removal forced users to adopt the default separated layout, where tabs appear in a distinct row below the address field.

The restoration comes after months of user feedback across Apple's forums and developer channels. Apple's design team appears to have reconsidered the decision, likely acknowledging that interface customization remains important for productivity workflows. The compact tab bar option now appears in the Settings app under Safari settings on both platforms.

To enable the compact layout:

1. Open Settings (iPadOS) or System Settings (macOS)
2. Navigate to the Safari section
3. Under Tabs settings
4. Select Compact Tab Bar instead of the default Separate Tab Bar

This implementation differs slightly between platforms. On iPadOS, the compact bar extends Safari's content area by approximately 30 pixels vertically compared to the separated layout. On macOS, it provides a more cohesive toolbar experience similar to Chrome or Firefox. Both implementations maintain Apple's Liquid Glass design language with translucent backgrounds and rounded corners.

Interface customization remains a key consideration in Apple's ecosystem strategy. While Apple occasionally streamlines options during major OS redesigns, user feedback mechanisms allow power users to advocate for retained functionality. The compact tab bar's return demonstrates how Apple balances design cohesion with practical workflow needs.

The macOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 updates are currently available through Apple's developer beta program, with public betas expected in the coming weeks. Final releases should arrive this spring alongside other feature refinements.