Apple listens: macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 brings back notable Safari feature that was dropped last year

With the launch of macOS Monterey back in 2021, Apple added the option for "compact" tab layout in Safari. This allowed the tabs to be bundled together in the primary window pane, as opposed to right below it, opening up a small amount of screen real estate.

Popular Safari feature makes a timely comeback

However, Apple removed this feature with the launch of macOS Tahoe in 2025. Admirers of the "compact" layout were understandably upset, and it appears that Apple has finally heard their cry. In the latest macOS 26.4 Beta, the "compact" option for the tab layout in Safari has made a comeback. Moreover, iPadOS 26.4 has also regained the feature.

It is not clear why the feature was removed in the first place, since there are plenty of users who adored it. Regardless, Apple's decision to bring it back will definitely be welcomed by those affected, but not right way - both macOS and iPadOS 26.4 are still in beta, and public-ready versions are not expected until later this month or early March.

Apple has already announced a special event for March 4, which is when we expect new MacBook Pros (M5 Pro and M5 Max), iPads, a new budget MacBook, and Home accessories to be introduced. Both macOS and iPadOS 26.4 are likely to arrive prior to the hardware launches.

Buy a 13-inch M5 MacBook Pro on Amazon (currently $1,449).