Apple has tightened security controls for Safari’s private browsing in iOS 17. In order to access private browsing, Apple is introducing a function that can be toggled on and will require Face ID (or Touch ID, depending on your iPhone model). This implies that even if you give someone your unlocked iPhone, they won’t be able to see any open private browsing tabs. Here’s how it functions:
What is Apple Face ID
The iPhone X introduced Apple’s Face ID, a facial recognition system, in 2017. For Apple’s most recent iPhones, including the iPhone 13 small, 13, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max, the technology replaces Touch ID’s fingerprint recognition mechanism. It is also likely to appear on upcoming iPhone models.
Face ID builds a precise 3D model of your face using a “TrueDepth camera system” that consists of sensors, cameras, and a dot projector located in the notch at the top of the iPhone display. The technology performs a safe authentication check every time you glance at your phone, enabling your device to be unlocked or your payment to be approved swiftly and intuitively if it recognises you.
How to Enable Face ID for Private Tabs on Safari
Only iPhone owners who are on the most recent Apple software update, iOS 17, will be able to use this new feature. You can use Face ID to lock your tabs in Safari Private Browsing after downloading the new software. Your browsing history and AutoFill data are already automatically deleted by Private Browsing, but this will add an additional layer of security.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- For Safari, scroll below.
- Require Face ID to Unlock Private Browsing can be turned on by scrolling down to Privacy & Security.
- Open Safari to see how it functions now.
- Select the Tabs button.
- To enter Private Browsing, swipe your screen from left to right across the bottom.
- You’ll see Face ID appear automatically after which you can access any open private tabs.
And that’s how you keep anyone using your iPhone from accessing your private browser. I think this is a very helpful option, and I will be using it going forward as someone who really values their privacy.
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