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With Safari 26.4, Apple has released a comprehensive update to its browser, including both new features and numerous bug fixes. In total, the new version brings 44 new features, 191 bug fixes, and removes one deprecated function. The focus is clearly on stability, consistency, and the requirements of modern web development.
Details about Safari 26.4 come from an official post on Apple's WebKit blog. There, Jen Simmons, an evangelist on the Web Developer Experience Team for Safari and WebKit, explains the background of the update.
According to them, a large part of the changes is based on feedback from developer surveys conducted in 2025. These surveys showed that many developers are less concerned with new features and more with spending more time on making effective use of existing ones. At the same time, there is a desire for a consistent and reliable implementation of web standards across different browsers.
Apple responds by specifically fixing bugs and closing gaps in the specification coverage. This approach is precisely what characterizes Safari 26.4.
44 new features and 191 bug fixes
Safari 26.4 delivers a combination of new features and extensive bug fixes. The 191 bug fixes address, among other things:
- SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)
- tables
- MathML
- CSS zoom
- other areas of the web platform
These improvements ensure that existing web technologies function more stably and consistently.
CSS Grid Lanes as a key innovation
Among the new features, Apple particularly highlights CSS Grid Lanes. This is an extension for CSS Grid Layout, specifically designed for complex visual structures.
This feature is long-awaited and enables the implementation of sophisticated layouts, for example for image galleries or dynamic content. Developers thus gain more control and flexibility in designing modern websites.
WebTransport as an alternative to WebSocket
With WebTransport, Apple introduces a modern technology for network communication. Positioned as an alternative to WebSocket, it offers particular advantages for real-time applications. Key features include:
- low latency
- stable data transmission
- flexible communication options
This makes WebTransport particularly suitable for applications such as multiplayer games, live collaboration tools, or improved video conferencing.
Keyboard Lock API for advanced input control
Another important new feature is the Keyboard Lock API. This allows web applications to selectively access keyboard input that was previously reserved for the browser.
A common problem so far has been the Escape key. Pressing it would automatically exit full-screen mode, regardless of whether this was useful in the context of the application.
The new API allows an application to request access to specific keys. This enables individualized control of input, for example in games, remote desktop applications, or creative tools. Control over user interaction is thus significantly expanded.
Removal of the FontFaceSet constructor
In addition to the new features, Apple is also removing an outdated function from Safari 26.4. Specifically, this concerns the FontFaceSet constructor from the CSS Font Loading API.
This decision follows a resolution by the CSS Working Group (CSSWG), which deemed the constructor unnecessary. Apple is thus focusing on streamlining and simplifying existing standards.
Apple is focusing on stability and substance with Safari 26.4
Safari 26.4 clearly demonstrates that Apple is placing greater emphasis on quality than simply adding new features. The combination of 44 new features, 191 bug fixes, and the removal of outdated components underscores this approach.
Instead of overwhelming developers with ever-new features, Apple focuses on making existing technologies more reliable and consistent. At the same time, targeted innovations like CSS Grid Lanes, WebTransport, and the Keyboard Lock API ensure that modern web applications can be implemented more efficiently.
This update represents an important step in the further development of the web within the Apple ecosystem. (Image: Apple)
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