Apple has released the Safari 26.4 update, significantly improving web browser performance and the development environment.
On March 24 (local time), IT outlet 9to5Mac reported that the update includes 44 new features, 191 bug fixes and the removal of 1 outdated feature, based on WebKit. Apple said on its official blog that Jen Simmons (젠 시몬스) from the web developer experience team explained the key changes in detail.
The most notable change is the introduction of CSS Grid Lanes. The feature supports more flexible construction of complex layouts and visual galleries, and has long been anticipated in web design. It enables developers to build more intuitive and sophisticated interfaces.
Features for real-time web environments have also been strengthened. Safari 26.4 supports WebTransport, a next-generation communications technology that can replace WebSocket. It is expected to deliver a more stable user experience across services such as multiplayer games, real-time collaboration tools and videoconferencing, based on low latency.
Input control features have also been expanded. With the newly introduced Keyboard Lock API, web applications can take priority over the browser in controlling keyboard input. It is expected to help provide a more precise input-processing environment for games or professional web apps.
Apple has also removed unnecessary functionality. The FontFaceSet constructor used in the CSS Font Loading API has been removed following a decision by the CSS Working Group (CSSWG). This is seen as a move to reduce inefficient elements as part of standards maintenance.
Stability improvements are also central to the update. A total of 191 bugs were fixed, including issues in areas such as SVG, tables, MathML and CSS Zoom. This is expected to significantly improve web page compatibility and overall performance.
The industry is assessing the update as a signal that competition over web app performance and real-time features is accelerating. In particular, it is seen as a move by Apple to expand its influence in browser ecosystem competition by strengthening developer-friendly features.
By Mary Munywoki
