In iOS 15, Apple introduced a range of changes to its native iPhone web browser, Safari. Some of them were controversial, such as the decision to move the URL address bar to the bottom of the screen, but others were less so, and Apple eventually provided options so that users could customize the browser to suit their own preferences.

safari

Website tinting off (left) versus tinting on

One of those options is the ability to disable website tinting. Tinting happens when the color of the Safari interface changes around the tabs, bookmark, and navigation button areas to match the color of the website you're viewing.

The idea behind tinting is that it allows the browser interface to fade into the background and create a more immersive experience. However, the effect doesn't sit well with everyone, and some users are positively put off by it. Fortunately, Apple chose to include an option to turn it off.

  1. Launch the Settings app on your ‌iPhone‌.
  2. Scroll down and tap Safari.
  3. Under the "Tabs" section, turn off the switch next to Allow Website Tinting On iPadOS 15, this option is called Show Color in Tab Bar.
    settings

In previous versions of iOS, Apple included a "Show Color in Tab Bar" accessibility setting, which basically had the same effect as the new "Allow Website Tinting" toggle. This suggests Apple wanted to make the option more widely known to users, presumably because the aversion to tinting is more common than previously thought.

Tag: Safari
Related Forum: iOS 15

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