iOS 18.4 Enhances Visibility of Safari Search History, for Better or Worse [U]

Over the past year, Apple has launched numerous advertisements promoting Safari as the privacy-conscious browsing option for users of iPhone, iPad, and Mac. However, with the introduction of iOS 18.4 beta 1, a new feature in Safari could unintentionally contradict this message—even as it offers beneficial functionality.

Update 3/19/25: Additional details about changes in iOS 18.4 beta 4 are included below.

iOS 18.4 beta 1 displays recent searches upon opening a new tab

The initial beta of iOS 18.4 includes a mix of significant and minor feature updates.

One change that I’ve found both enjoyable and somewhat concerning involves Apple’s Safari browser.

With iOS 18.4, whenever you open a new tab in Safari and tap the address bar, the system automatically presents your recent search history right on the screen.

This feature undoubtedly enhances usability, making it easier to revisit and resubmit previous searches.

However, this new display of recent searches could also create discomfort for some iPhone users, especially if they frequently share their devices.

In particular, if you lend your device to someone else, this new feature could become a significant privacy concern.

• Displaying recent searches when starting a new search: a helpful addition.
• Exposing your searches when another user initiates a new search: less appealing.

There is a possibility that this feature may be removed in subsequent iOS 18.4 betas before the final release. For the time being, however, it presents a potential privacy risk that users should consider.

Moreover, as it stands, iOS 18.4 does not seem to provide an option to disable this feature. While clearing recent search history with a quick tap is possible, I haven’t located any settings to permanently turn it off within the Settings app.

Update 3/19/25: The latest iOS 18.4 beta 4 introduces an option in Safari settings to disable this feature. A ‘Show Recent Searches’ toggle is present and activated by default, but can be turned off.

What are your thoughts on this Safari modification in iOS 18.4? Share your opinions in the comments.

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