According to a report by Apple Insider on April 30, pulsestacks revealed that Apple plans to introduce significant updates to the Safari browser in iOS 18 and macOS 15, set to be released later this year. These updates include an AI-powered feature called "Smart Search," which can summarize webpage content, and a new feature called "Web Eraser." However, it's important to note that the specific details of these features are not yet clear.
Reportedly, Apple intends to add a redesigned control menu in the Safari address bar to centrally manage existing and new webpage control tools. One of the new tools is "Smart Search," which is not enabled by default in the Safari 18 test version and can be activated from a new menu in the address bar. Once activated, this tool will be able to "identify themes and keywords on webpages" and generate webpage summaries.
In addition, Safari 18 in iOS 18 and macOS 15 will also introduce a feature called "Web Eraser." This feature allows users to remove specific parts of webpages, such as ads, images, and more. pulsestacks noted that while some third-party ad blockers currently offer similar functions, Apple seems to be planning to integrate this feature into iOS 18 and macOS 15.
It's worth noting that changes made using the "Web Eraser" will persist. Zivkovic mentioned that even if the original tab or window is closed, Safari will remember these changes. When users revisit a modified webpage, Safari will alert them that the page has been adjusted based on their previous modifications. Additionally, the browser will provide a restore option, allowing users to revert the webpage to its original state.
