Websites often send iPhones a simplified mobile version that hides menus, features, or content you need. Safari’s Request Desktop Website option loads the full desktop version instead, either for one visit, for a specific site every time, or for all sites. This guide covers each option on iOS 17 and later (including the redesigned Safari in newer versions), plus Chrome and other browsers.
Quick Answer
In Safari, open the site, tap the page menu button in the address bar (aA on iOS 17 and 18; the menu button next to the address on newer versions), and tap Request Desktop Website. To always get desktop sites, go to Settings > Apps > Safari > Request Desktop Website and turn on All Websites.
Request the Desktop Site Once
- Open Safari and go to the website.
- Tap the page menu button in the address bar. On iOS 17 and 18 it’s labeled aA.
- Tap Request Desktop Website. The page reloads in desktop layout.
- To switch back, open the same menu and tap Request Mobile Website.
Shortcut: in some versions, you can touch and hold the reload button in the address bar to see Request Desktop Website.
Always Use the Desktop Site for One Website
- Open the site in Safari.
- Tap the page menu button and choose Website Settings.
- Turn on Request Desktop Website and tap Done.
Safari remembers this for that site until you turn it off.
Always Use Desktop Sites for All Websites
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps > Safari (on iOS 17, just Safari).
- Under Settings for Websites, tap Request Desktop Website.
- Turn on All Websites. Individual site settings you’ve made appear below and can be removed.
On an iPad, Safari requests desktop sites by default.
Other Browsers
| Browser | How to request the desktop site |
|---|---|
| Chrome | Tap ⋯ (More) > Request Desktop Site. For every site: ⋯ > Settings > Content Settings > Default Site View > Desktop. |
| Firefox | Tap the menu > Request Desktop Site, or touch and hold the reload button. |
| Edge | Tap ⋯ > View desktop site. |
Tips for Browsing Desktop Sites on iPhone
- Zoom: pinch to zoom in on text, or use the A / A buttons in the page menu to change the page zoom level.
- Rotate to landscape for a wider view.
- Some sites still show mobile pages because they detect screen size, not just the browser type. The desktop request can’t override that.
- If a site looks broken in desktop mode, switch back to the mobile site, or try Reader view for articles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t I see “aA” in Safari?
Newer versions of iOS redesigned Safari’s toolbar. Look for the page menu button next to the address, or tap the address bar to reveal it. If you’re in a compact layout, tap the three-dot button.
Does the desktop site use more data?
Often, yes. Desktop pages may load larger images and scripts.
Is this the same as “Desktop view” in Google search results?
No. That link in search only affects Google’s own page. Safari’s setting applies to every website.
Summary
- For one visit: page menu > Request Desktop Website.
- For one site always: page menu > Website Settings > turn it on.
- For all sites: Settings > Apps > Safari > Request Desktop Website > All Websites.
- In Chrome: ⋯ > Request Desktop Site.
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.