Safari has unveiled a new feature named Distraction Control, designed to declutter web pages by removing non-essential elements. This enhancement shadows the introduction of Boosts by the Browser Company’s Arc Browser last year, which provides similar functionality enabling users to eliminate selected website features and tailor the site’s layout to their preference.
The initial iteration of this functionality is being deployed by Apple this week through the latest developer betas of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia.
The Distraction Control feature is accessible via the Page Menu located in the Smart Search area. Users can pinpoint and select the specific website element they wish to eliminate. Once removed, Safari will continuously block the selected elements during subsequent site visits. However, these preferences are not yet synchronizable across devices, necessitating individual adjustments on each device used.
To revisit any hidden elements, users can opt to click the blue Hide icon found in the search area and choose “Show hidden items” to reveal any concealed parts of the webpage.
Apple has mentioned that the Distraction Control feature is not designed to block advertisements or sections with content that updates regularly. It remains to be seen whether this tool can exclude sections such as “Who to follow” or “Explore” on X, given their fixed position but dynamic content nature.
The Boost feature of Arc Browser proved its capability to hide such sections in our previous evaluations.
Alongside the release of iOS 18, Apple is also introducing a revamped reader that offers improved listening experiences and adjustable font settings. Furthermore, a new Highlights feature is being launched, aimed at distilling key information from web pages, such as quick links for driving directions, contact details, and summaries of TV show critiques mentioned on the site.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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