Switching to desktop mode on your iPhone 12 is a handy trick to know when you need to access the full version of a website instead of the mobile version. It’s as simple as tapping on the AA icon in the address bar of Safari and selecting “Request Desktop Site.” With this quick overview, you should be able to switch modes in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: Switching to Desktop Mode on iPhone 12
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to know that switching to desktop mode will allow you to view websites as if you were browsing from a computer. This can be useful for accessing features that might not be available on the mobile site.
Step 1: Open Safari
Open the Safari app on your iPhone 12. This is the browser you will use to access the website you want to view in desktop mode.
The Safari app is typically located on your iPhone’s home screen, but you can also find it by swiping down from the middle of the screen and typing “Safari” in the search bar.
Step 2: Go to the Website
Navigate to the website you want to view in desktop mode. You can type the URL directly into the address bar at the top of the screen.
If you’re not sure of the website’s address, you can use the search bar to search for the website by name.
Step 3: Tap the AA Icon
Once the website has loaded, tap the AA icon on the left side of the address bar.
The AA icon may be small, but it’s mighty. Tapping on it will reveal a drop-down menu with several options to customize your browsing experience.
Step 4: Select “Request Desktop Site”
From the drop-down menu, select “Request Desktop Site” to switch from the mobile version to the desktop version of the website.
After you make this selection, the website will reload, and you will be able to view it in desktop mode. Keep in mind that not all websites may support this feature.
After completing these steps, the website you are viewing will reload and display in desktop mode. This means you’ll see the full version of the site, just like if you were browsing on a computer. This can be particularly useful for websites that offer more functionality in their desktop version or for when the mobile site is lacking certain features.
Tips: Making the Most of Desktop Mode on iPhone 12
- Remember that desktop mode will use more data than the mobile version of a website, so be mindful if you have a limited data plan.
- Some websites may not be optimized for desktop mode on a smaller screen, so you may need to zoom in and out to navigate the site properly.
- If you frequently visit a website in desktop mode, consider adding a bookmark to your home screen for quick access.
- Keep in mind that not all features available on a desktop may work smoothly on your iPhone, such as hover menus.
- If you find that desktop mode is not working as expected, try clearing your Safari cache and cookies, then attempt to request the desktop site again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will switching to desktop mode save my preference for that website?
No, requesting the desktop site is a one-time action. You will need to request it each time you visit the website unless you add a bookmark as mentioned in the tips section.
Can I switch back to mobile mode after requesting the desktop site?
Yes, you can switch back by tapping the AA icon again and selecting “Request Mobile Site.”
Does desktop mode work in browsers other than Safari?
While this tutorial is specific to Safari, other browsers like Chrome and Firefox also have the option to request a desktop site.
Will desktop mode affect the performance of my iPhone 12?
No, desktop mode should not affect your iPhone’s performance. However, some desktop websites might be more resource-intensive and could cause Safari to lag.
Can I use desktop mode in landscape orientation?
Yes, using your iPhone in landscape orientation while in desktop mode can provide a better viewing experience by taking advantage of the wider screen.
Summary
- Open Safari.
- Go to the website.
- Tap the AA icon.
- Select “Request Desktop Site.”
Conclusion
Switching to desktop mode on your iPhone 12 is an incredibly useful feature that can enhance your browsing experience. Whether you’re trying to access a service that’s only available on the full website or you simply prefer the layout of the desktop version, knowing how to make the switch is essential. The process is straightforward and only takes a few taps within Safari.
Remember that while desktop mode can be convenient, it may also come with some trade-offs, such as increased data usage and potential navigation issues on smaller screens. However, with the tips and tricks provided in this article, you’ll be able to navigate these challenges and make the most out of your iPhone’s desktop browsing capabilities.
Switching to desktop mode is just one of the many ways you can customize your browsing experience on the iPhone 12. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how it transforms the way you interact with your favorite websites. 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.