Unique Features of Safari Exclusively Found in the WebKit Browser Family

Safari, Applersquo;s flagship web browser, is renowned for its intuitive design, robust security features, and seamless integration with Apple devices. One of the lesser-known aspects of Safari is its exclusive features that are part of the WebKit browser family. These unique features are not available in other mainstream browsers that also use WebKit. This article explores some of the most notable functionalities that set Safari apart.

Dedicated Features of Safari

Display Fullscreen Video on iPhone: One of the most compelling features of Safari is its ability to display fullscreen videos on iPhone. This feature enhances the user experience by allowing users to immerse themselves fully in video content. Unlike other browsers, Safari automatically turns off the status bar and navigation bar when playing a video in fullscreen mode, providing an optimized viewing experience.

Install Web Apps Using Safari on iPhone: Safari on iOS allows users to install web apps by adding them to the home screen. This functionality is often used for productivity apps like Office Online or official app counterparts. When installed, these web apps behave like native apps, offering fast access and the ability to run without an internet connection. This feature is exclusive to Safari and provides a more seamless user experience.

Browser Extensions Within Safari on iOS: Apple has traditionally been restrictive regarding browser extensions, which are valuable tools for customizing browsing behavior and enhancing productivity. However, Safari on iOS does support some extensions, such as those designed for improving readability, managing passwords, and ad blocking. This limited support for specific extensions contrasts with the rich ecosystem of extensions available on desktop browsers like Chrome and Firefox.

Integration with Apple Pay: Safari excels in seamless payment processes, especially when combined with Apple Pay. With just a tap, Safari can securely complete purchases directly from websites using Apple Pay, making the checkout process quick and user-friendly. This feature is not available in non-iOS browsers, providing a unique advantage for Apple users.

Developers and iOS Browsing Requirements

App-Exclusive Use of Safari: Developers and app creators often find themselves constrained by the requirement to use Safari when browsing within iOS apps. This policy, while ensuring a consistent user experience, can be frustrating for developers who may want to integrate their preferred browser across different apps. This limitation is a unique aspect of iOS and Safari that sets it apart from similar web technologies on Windows and Android.

More Than 30 Missing Functions or APIs for WebKit: The WebKit open-source project powers Safari and similar browsers on multiple platforms. However, there are over 30 functions or APIs that Safari exclusively supports, providing functionalities that are not available in other WebKit-based browsers. These include advanced security features, enhanced animations, and specific user interface elements. Developers who rely on these unique features often highlight them as a reason to prefer Safari over other browsers.

OWA Warnings and Developer Feedback: WebKit Onward (WOA) is a collaborative effort between browser vendors and web developers to ensure the long-term sustainability and flexibility of the WebKit project. However, developers have noted more than 30 missing functions or APIs that Safari supports but are not available in other WebKit browsers. This oversight has led to warnings and discussions within the WOA community about the necessity of including these features in other WebKit-derived browsers.

Why These Features Matter

The unique set of features highlighted above represents more than just minor differences between Safari and other browsers. They significantly influence the user experience on iOS devices and offer additional functionality that can be vital for specific use cases. For instance, the ability to install web apps can make third-party content more accessible and useful, while the fullscreen video feature can create an outstanding multimedia experience. Similarly, the integration with Apple Pay can streamline the overall financial transaction process, making Safari a more than just a web browser.

Conclusion

Apple Safari and its unique features within the WebKit family set it apart from other web browsers in significant ways. From the ability to display fullscreen videos to installing web apps, the integration with Apple Pay, and more, Safari offers a range of functionalities that enhance user experience. While these features may be exclusive to Safari, they showcase the versatility and depth of the WebKit open-source project. For users and developers alike, these unique features underscore the value of choosing Safari as your primary web browser on iOS devices.

Keywords: Safari Features, WebKit Browser, iOS Browsing