Apple is bringing back the compact tab bar in Safari with the first beta of macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4. The feature, which was removed when macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26 launched last fall, returns in these latest developer builds. Users who preferred the more space-efficient tab layout will be pleased with the restoration.

When macOS Tahoe debuted, Apple eliminated the compact tab bar option that had been available in previous versions. This change frustrated many users who relied on the condensed layout to maximize screen space, particularly on smaller MacBook displays. The compact tab bar displays tabs in a single row with minimal spacing, unlike the default layout that uses more padding between tabs.

The return of this feature in the 26.4 beta suggests Apple listened to user feedback about the Safari interface changes. Beta testers can now access the compact tab bar setting in Safari's preferences, restoring the previous functionality. This update demonstrates Apple's willingness to reverse course on interface decisions when user demand is strong enough. The 26.4 beta is currently available to developers testing the latest operating system versions.