Experimental features in web browsers refer to functionalities currently in the testing phase and are not yet fully stable or standardized. The main purpose of these features is to allow developers and users to experiment with new functionalities and provide feedback before they become mainstream. These features are often available in the beta versions of browsers or within developer tools.
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Experimental Features in Safari
On Safari 17.0 the “Experimental Features” section has been renamed to “Feature Flags”.
The Feature Flags (Experimental Features) of Safari give you access to:
- Access to upcoming web tools: Highlights the exciting opportunity to preview cutting-edge browser functionalities.
- Ideas about web element changes: It emphasizes the glimpse into potential future interactions with web elements.
- New browser initiatives: Acknowledges the experimental playground for innovative browser features.
- Behavior adjustments: This points to the ability to fine-tune specific aspects of browsing.
- Under-test development features: Clarifies the experimental nature and ongoing refinement of these features.
Why Experimental Features?
There are several reasons why developers include experimental features in software like Safari:
- Gather user feedback: This is probably the most important reason. By making early versions of features available to users, developers can get valuable feedback on their usability, effectiveness, and popularity. This helps them refine the features before officially releasing them, leading to a better user experience for everyone.
- Identify potential issues: Experimental features act as a testing ground to uncover bugs and performance issues before they impact a wider user base. Developers can monitor how users interact with the features and address any problems that arise before the official release.
- Early access for enthusiasts: Some users enjoy being on the cutting edge and trying out new things. Experimental features offer them a chance to be among the first to experience new functionalities and provide feedback that shapes the final product.
How to Enable or Disable the Feature Flags/Experimental Features
Follow the steps to enable or disable on Mac:
Step 1: Open Safari on your Mac
Step 2: Go to Settings by clicking ‘Safari’ menu available on top left corner next to ‘apple icon’ or by pressing [cmd + ,].
Safari menu in Safari Browser on Mac
Step 3: Navigate to Advanced section.
Advanced Section of Safari Setting on Mac
Step 4: Checkmark the checkbox that says Show features for web developers available on bottom of Advanced Settings window.
Step 5: Now, you should see Developer as wll as Feature Flags section next to Advanced section.
Feature Flags Section of Safari Setting on Mac
Alternatively, you can access the Feature Flags section by selecting the Develop menu from the options available at the top of the Safari app and then choosing “Feature Flags” from the submenu.
Checked features are active. You can enable or disable the feature by checking the checkbox.
Follow the steps to enable or disable on iOS:
Step 1: Open Setting app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Scroll down until you find Safari and tap on it.
Settings app on iPhone 15 Pro Max
Step 3: Scroll all the way down on Safari Setting on your iPhone, to find the Advanced option and tap on it.
Safari Settings on iPhone 15 Pro Max
Step 4: Tap on Feature Flags option available on botton of Advanced menu of Safari settings.
Advanced Safari Settings on iPhone 15 Pro Max
Checked features are active. You can enable a feature by checking the checkbox.
WebKit Feature Flags of Safari on iPhone 15 Pro Max
Conclusion
The Feature Flags (previously known as Experimental Features) section in Safari is primarily aimed at web developers to test and debug upcoming features. However, some features might offer interesting functionalities for general users as well.
It’s essential to note it come with certain risks. They may have bugs, security vulnerabilities, or change before reaching a stable release. Users who choose to explore these features should be aware of the potential risks and are encouraged to provide feedback to help shape the development process.