Unlike most apps on your iPhone or iPad, Safari does not update through the App Store. It is built into iOS and iPadOS, so the only way to get the newest version of Safari, with its latest security fixes and features, is to update your device's software. This guide explains how to do that, how to turn on automatic updates, how to check your Safari version, and what to do if an update will not install or your device is too old.
Quick Answer
To update Safari on iOS, go to Settings > General > Software Update and tap Update Now (or Download and Install). Safari updates along with iOS. To keep it current automatically, tap Automatic Updates and turn on both Download and Install options, including Security Responses & System Files.
Why Safari Is Not in the App Store
Apple ships Safari as part of the operating system, similar to Messages and Phone. Each iOS update may include a new Safari version, performance improvements, and security patches for WebKit, the engine that powers Safari and other browsers on iPhone. That is why keeping iOS current is the single most important thing you can do for safe browsing.
Step 1: Prepare Your iPhone
- Back up with iCloud (Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now) or a computer.
- Connect to Wi-Fi. Large updates may not download over cellular unless you allow it.
- Charge the battery to at least 50%, or plug it in.
- Free up storage if needed: check Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Updates often need several gigabytes of temporary space.
Step 2: Update iOS (and Safari)
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update and wait while it checks.
- If an update is available, tap Update Now or Download and Install. If you see two options, the top one is usually the latest version; you can also choose a newer major release if offered.
- Enter your passcode, agree to the terms, and wait for the download.
- Tap Install Now when prompted. Your iPhone restarts to finish.
When it says your software is up to date, you already have the newest Safari available for your device.
Step 3: Turn On Automatic Updates
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
- Turn on Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates (option names may vary slightly by version).
- Turn on Security Responses & System Files. These rapid fixes often patch Safari and WebKit without a full iOS update.
With automatic installs on, your iPhone updates overnight while it is charging and connected to Wi-Fi.
How to Check Your Safari Version
Safari's version generally follows the iOS version. To see your iOS version, go to Settings > General > About and look at iOS Version. For example, an iPhone on iOS 18 runs Safari 18. The version shown may include a point release (such as 18.x).
Update Safari on iPad and Mac
- iPad: the same steps apply in Settings > General > Software Update.
- Mac: Safari updates come through System Settings > General > Software Update. Macs on older, still-supported macOS versions may receive Safari updates separately there.
What If My iPhone Cannot Update?
Older iPhones eventually stop receiving major iOS versions, and with them, new Safari versions. Apple may still release security updates for older versions for some time. If Software Update says you are up to date but your iOS is several versions behind, your device may no longer support newer releases.
In that case:
- Install any security updates still offered.
- Be cautious with unfamiliar websites, since older browsers may have unpatched vulnerabilities.
- Consider upgrading to a supported iPhone for the best security.
Installing another browser from the App Store does not fully solve this, because all iOS browsers use the system's WebKit engine in most regions.
Troubleshooting
Update will not download
Check your Wi-Fi, restart your iPhone, and free up storage. If you see "Unable to Check for Update," try again later or switch networks.
Update is stuck on "Preparing Update"
Wait at least an hour on a strong connection. If it still does not move, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, find the update, tap Delete Update, and download it again.
Safari still acts buggy after updating
Clear website data in Settings > Apps > Safari > Clear History and Website Data (on older iOS, Settings > Safari), and turn off extensions under Safari > Extensions to see if one is causing the problem.
Update through a computer instead
Connect your iPhone to a Mac (Finder) or a Windows PC (Apple Devices app or iTunes), select the device, and click Check for Update.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update Safari without updating iOS?
No, not for major versions. Some security fixes arrive through Background Security or Rapid Security Responses, but the full Safari version is tied to iOS.
Is Safari free to update?
Yes. iOS updates, including Safari, are free.
Will updating iOS delete my Safari bookmarks or tabs?
No. Bookmarks, tabs, and passwords stay in place. Backing up first is still a good idea.
How often does Safari get updated?
Apple typically releases a major Safari version each fall with the new iOS, plus smaller updates and security fixes throughout the year.
Summary
- Safari updates only through iOS updates, not the App Store.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any update.
- Turn on Automatic Updates and Security Responses.
- Check your version in Settings > General > About.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.