Safari Tab Group Tools in iOS 15 Explained

Apple introduced Tab Groups in iOS 15 to help users organize, save, and manage open web pages without cluttering their mobile browser. These tools allow you to categorize tabs by project or topic, sync them seamlessly via iCloud across devices and browser windows, and switch between dedicated sets of tabs instantly. This guide details the specific features added in iOS 15 to manage tab groups across Safari.

Creating and Grouping Tabs

In iOS 15, the redesigned tab overview screen serves as the hub for managing tab organization. Tapping the tabs icon (the overlapping squares) reveals the total tab count at the bottom center of the screen. Tapping this counter opens the Tab Groups menu, where users can choose:

  • New Empty Tab Group: Creates a fresh workspace to collect tabs from scratch.
  • New Tab Group from [X] Tabs: Automatically bundles all currently open tabs into a named group.

Instant iCloud Synchronization Across Windows and Devices

Any Tab Group created on an iPhone running iOS 15 automatically synchronizes across all devices signed into the same Apple ID, including iPadOS 15 and macOS Monterey. Changes made within a group—such as adding, closing, or rearranging tabs—update in real time across any open Safari window on other devices, eliminating the need to manually transfer links.

Moving Tabs Between Groups

iOS 15 introduced contextual actions to move open pages without copying URLs:

  • From the Tab Grid: Long-press any tab thumbnail to open the context menu, tap Move to Tab Group, and choose the target group.
  • From the Active Page: Long-press the address bar or the tab button to access the same Move to Tab Group shortcut directly while browsing.

Customizable Start Pages per Group

Each Tab Group includes its own distinct Start Page. When viewing a specific group, opening a new tab presents a start page that can be customized independently from your general browsing start page. Users can assign custom background images and display specific bookmarks or Reading List items tailored to that group's purpose.

Managing and Reordering Groups

From the Tab Groups menu, users can swipe left on any group name to delete it or swipe right to share links. Tapping Edit allows users to rename groups or drag the handle icon to change the order in which groups appear in the switcher menu.