While the Safari update brings new features, it also brings a new design. Apple’s original vision for Safari 15, which has been toned down slightly over the beta period. The update also includes features like better tracking protection and automatic switching to HTTPS for sites that support it. For those who have upgraded to iOS 15, that’s a good thing - it means that you can immediately use tab groups across all your devices. The full OS update that it was originally a part of, which also brings features like Universal Control and Quick Notes, isn’t here yet, but Apple decided to ship the new Safari anyway. The development behind this version of Safari has been interesting. Unlike updates to macOS, you shouldn’t have to reboot your computer after updating Safari.
To update to the new Safari 15, you can go to System Preferences > Software Update, where it should automatically refresh and show up. The update, announced as part of the upcoming macOS Monterey, was released the same day as iOS and iPadOS 15, bringing the web browser’s new look and features across Apple’s platforms. Apple has released a redesigned version of Safari for macOS Big Sur and Catalina.
