How to Move the iPhone Safari Address Bar Back to the Top

With recent iOS updates, Apple moved the Safari address bar to the bottom of the iPhone screen by default, a change that not every user prefers. Fortunately, reverting the browser layout back to the classic single tab bar at the top of the screen is simple and only takes a few seconds. This article provides straightforward instructions on the two different methods—using the Safari app directly or navigating through the iPhone Settings menu—to move your Safari address bar back to the top.

Method 1: Change the Layout Directly in Safari

The fastest way to move the address bar is while you are actively using the Safari web browser.

1. Open the Safari app on your iPhone.
2. Load any webpage so that the bottom address bar is active.
3. Tap the AA icon (or the Page Menu icon featuring a rectangle with two lines in newer iOS versions) located on the far-left side of the address bar.
4. In the menu that pops up, tap Show Top Address Bar.

The address bar will immediately snap back to the top of your screen as a single tab bar.

Method 2: Change the Layout via iPhone Settings

You can also permanently adjust the Safari layout through your device's main settings menu.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on Safari (Note: If you are using iOS 18 or later, scroll to the bottom, tap Apps, and then select Safari).
3. Scroll down to the Tabs section.
4. You will see two visual options: "Tab Bar" and "Single Tab." Tap on Single Tab to select it.

Once selected, a checkmark will appear beneath the Single Tab graphic. The next time you open Safari, your address bar will be positioned at the top of the screen.