Are you tired of getting the mobile version of websites when you use your iPad? You can easily switch to the desktop version with just a few taps. Here’s a quick overview: Open Safari, tap the “AA” icon in the address bar, and select “Request Desktop Site.” Voilà! Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
How to Request Desktop Site on iPad
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to request the desktop version of a website on your iPad using Safari. It’s a simple process that can make your browsing experience a lot more enjoyable.
Step 1: Open Safari
Launch Safari on your iPad by tapping the Safari icon.
Safari is the default web browser on iPads and is represented by a blue compass icon. If you can’t find it, you can swipe down on your home screen and type “Safari” into the search bar.
Step 2: Navigate to the Website
Type the URL of the website you want to visit into the address bar and press “Go.”
Make sure the website loads completely before proceeding to the next step. This ensures that all elements of the page are available.
Step 3: Tap the “AA” Icon
Once the website has loaded, tap the “AA” icon located on the left side of the address bar.
The “AA” icon stands for “Accessibility,” and it offers various options to customize your viewing experience, including font size and request desktop site.
Step 4: Select “Request Desktop Site”
From the dropdown menu, select the option “Request Desktop Site.”
Upon selecting this option, Safari will reload the page and display the desktop version of the website. This is particularly useful for websites that offer limited functionality on their mobile versions.
Step 5: Browse the Desktop Site
Now you can browse the desktop version of the website just as you would on a computer.
The desktop site should look exactly like it does on a laptop or desktop computer, offering a more comprehensive browsing experience.
Now that you’ve requested the desktop site, Safari will remember your preference and continue to display the desktop version of that website until you change it back.
Tips for Requesting Desktop Site on iPad
- Bookmark Desktop Sites: Once you’ve requested the desktop version, bookmark it for quicker access next time.
- Try Other Browsers: If Safari isn’t your thing, other iOS browsers like Chrome also have this feature.
- Use in Landscape Mode: Turning your iPad to landscape mode offers a better view of desktop websites.
- Check Compatibility: Not all websites display perfectly even in desktop mode, so be prepared for some quirks.
- Clear Cache: If the desktop version isn’t loading correctly, sometimes clearing your browser cache can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a desktop site using other browsers on my iPad?
Yes, browsers like Chrome and Firefox also offer the option to request desktop sites.
Will websites always remember my desktop site preference?
Most websites will remember your preference for a session, but you may need to reselect “Request Desktop Site” for future visits.
Does requesting a desktop site affect page loading times?
Yes, desktop sites are usually larger and may take longer to load compared to their mobile counterparts.
Can I switch back to the mobile site if I don’t like the desktop version?
Absolutely, just tap the “AA” icon again and select “Request Mobile Site.”
Is this feature available on all iPads?
Yes, as long as your iPad is running a relatively recent version of iOS, you should have this option available.
Summary
- Open Safari.
- Navigate to the website.
- Tap the “AA” icon.
- Select “Request Desktop Site”.
- Browse the desktop site.
Conclusion
Switching to the desktop version of a website on your iPad can significantly enhance your browsing experience, especially if you’re navigating complex sites like forums, online shops, or content management systems. While the mobile versions of websites are optimized for touchscreens and smaller displays, they can sometimes lack the full functionality or layout that the desktop versions offer.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to switch between mobile and desktop versions with ease, giving you greater control over your internet browsing. Don’t forget to utilize the tips provided to further optimize your experience. Whether you’re troubleshooting a problem or simply prefer the desktop layout, requesting a desktop site is a handy trick to have up your sleeve. Happy browsing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.