iPad private browsing not available. Where can I find it?

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Level 1

4 points

iPad private browsing not available. Where can I find it?

Before the updates last month (Nov 2021), I had private browsing on my iPad. Now the option isn’t even available. (See attached photo) I have 2 iPads (2018 and 2019) and both updated to iOS 15 but it’s gone. I had so much tabs open that were not bookmarked so I lost them all. Where can I find it?

iPad, 15

Posted on Dec 28, 2021 7:00 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

LotusPilot

Level 10

305,897 points

Dec 28, 2021 7:14 AM in response to HEFJal

The method of accessing Private Browsing differs between iPadOS13/14 and iPadOS15.

These instructions relate to iPadOS13/14 only - as the support page has not been updated for iPadOS15:

Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPad - Apple Support

The method used to access Private Browsing has changed for iPadOS15. To access Private Browsing in iPadOS15, it is necessary to first summon the Safari Sidebar using the button at upper left of the screen [1] - and from the menu tap the Private toggle button [2].

To return to regular browsing, tap the sidebar n Tabs button, that appears above the Private button.

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Answer 2

LotusPilot

Level 10

305,897 points

Dec 28, 2021 9:35 AM in response to HEFJal

There are some reports of applied restrictions inhibiting access to iPadOS Private Browsing. If enabled, try disabling all current restrictions by removing your ScreenTime Passcode and temporarily disable ScreenTime in iPad settings. If this resolves the problem, you can re-apply any restrictions that you need.

Settings > Screen Time >

Change Screen Time Passcode > Turn Off Screen Time Passcode
Turn Off Screen Time

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Answer 3

LotusPilot

Level 10

305,897 points

Dec 28, 2021 7:28 AM in response to HEFJal

If Private browsing is still not visible, you should try a forced-restart of your iPad - as this will often resolve isolated software issues:

On an iPad with a Home button: Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.
On other iPad models: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the top button. When the Apple logo appears, release the button.