How to enable developer mode in Safari for Mac

  • Developer mode unlocks advanced tools in Safari that are essential for programmers and technical users.
  • Safari hides this menu by default, so you'll need to enable it in Advanced Preferences.
  • Once enabled, you can access utilities such as the web inspector, the console, and real-time resource and code editing.

Enable developer mode in Safari for Mac

The Safari browser on Mac is much more than just a tool for browsing the internet. Hides advanced features specifically targeted at developers and users who want to access the inner workings of websitesIf you've ever wanted to inspect a page's code, experiment with web technologies, or debug JavaScript scripts, you need to enable developer mode. However, This option is not enabled by default and many users don't know how to access all its possibilities. Let's see How to enable developer mode in Safari for Mac.

In this article, I'll tell you in detail and practically how you can activate developer mode in Safari for Mac., what advantages it has, everything you can find in the Development menu, and important tips to get the most out of it. We also include verified information from other sources, interesting facts about security and privacy, and, if you're interested, a look at experimental features and hidden options. Let's get started!

What is developer mode in Safari and what is it for?

Safari comes prepared with a set of utilities designed to help web developers and advanced users thoroughly analyze and modify web pagesThis includes the familiar web inspector (similar to the one found in other browsers like Chrome or Firefox), the JavaScript console, the ability to view and modify resources, analyze CSS styles, and debug scripts, among many other features.

Developer mode is a must if you want to program, test, fix bugs, or experiment with web pages right from your Mac.. To learn more about other useful tools, you can check out our review on Automate dark mode in Safari.

In the Development menu, you'll find useful tools such as:

  • Web inspector: to view and edit the HTML and CSS of any page in real time.
  • JavaScript Console: to run code and check for possible errors.
  • Viewing resources: to browse images, scripts, style sheets, fonts, cookies, and local storage on the web.
  • Device emulation: Useful for seeing how a website behaves in different resolutions or browsers.
  • Activation of experimental functions: access to emerging web technologies still under development.

By default, Apple keeps this menu hidden To avoid confusion for non-technical users, but activating it is very simple if you follow a few steps.

Steps to enable developer mode in Safari for Mac

Let's get practical: I explain step by step how to enable the Development menu in Safari.

  1. Open Safari on your MacClick the usual compass icon or search for it in Launchpad.
  2. Click on 'Safari' in the top menu bar. and select "Preferencesโ€ฆ" (or just press Cmd +,).
  3. Access the tab "Advanced" within the preferences window. It's the last one, with the gear icon.
  4. Scroll to the bottom and check the box. "Show the Development menu in the menu bar".

That's it! You'll now see a new option. "Development" in the top menu bar, next to Window and Help, ready to use.

What can you do now with the Development menu?

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Activating the development menu not only opens the door to the world of web development, but gives you access to powerful free tools to experiment and learnHere are some of the key actions you can take:

  • Inspect the code of any page: Analyzes the HTML structure, CSS and JavaScript behavior of any website.
  • Edit elements in real time: Modify styles, add or remove nodes, change attributes and view the results instantly.
  • Access the console: Test code snippets, query variables, verify flow, and troubleshoot script errors.
  • View page resources: Discover images, fonts, scripts, and files loaded by the web to optimize load times or analyze requests.
  • use shortcuts: For example, Option + Command + I to open the inspector. There are shortcuts for almost every utility.
  • Test experimental features: From this menu you can activate options in the testing phase, such as the Accessibility Object Model, very useful for checking how websites interact with assistive technologies.
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Quick access to tools in the Development menu

The Development menu integrates numerous specific utilities that will make your life easier if you work with websites:

  • Connect the Site Inspector (Option + Command + I): Opens the main window for analyzing code and resources.
  • Show JavaScript console (Option + Command + C): Focused on script debugging.
  • View source of the page (Option + Command + U): Displays the raw HTML as interpreted by the browser.
  • View page resources (Option + Command + A): Include images, style sheets, cookies, and other key resources.

These shortcuts allow you to access the main functions in a matter of seconds. The web inspector opens a window at the bottom of the screen for comfortable workTo close it, simply click on the cross on the far right.

Additional features and experimental functions

One of the great advantages of the Develop menu in Safari is the possibility of activate experimental functions still in the testing phase. This includes performance-related tools, new web standards, and, very importantly, accessibility improvements.

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For example, Apple has added the option to enable 'Accessibility Events,' a subfeature of the Accessibility Object Model (AOM). This allows you to check how assistive technologies, such as VoiceOver, with your websites and customize controls for a better user experience.

To activate this feature:

  1. Open Safari and access the Develop menu.
  2. Choose Development > Experimental Features > Accessibility Object Model.

These features should only be enabled if you have knowledge or interest in advanced web development, as they can modify browser behavior.

Accessibility, privacy, and security when using developer mode

Apple has put the focus on that All development tools respect privacy and are designed with security in mind.When you enable accessibility events or other advanced options, the system doesn't allow sites to detect whether you explicitly use screen readers or other assistive technologies, nor does it reveal your personal capabilities.

If you try to open apps from unverified developers, macOS will display warnings to protect you from malware or harmful software. Never exceed these restrictions unless you fully trust the source.If you have any questions, look for official versions in the App Store or recommended alternatives. If you decide to continue, you can manually add the app as an exception from the Security & Privacy panel.

Comparison with other development tools

Safari's Web Inspector is, for many macOS users, more stable and efficient than other browsersIt works especially well, integrating with the system and allowing for very precise page modifications. Although each browser has its own tools, Apple takes special care to ensure fluidity and compatibility with current web standards.

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If you're coming from Chrome or Firefox, you'll find the core features are quite similar: inspecting elements, debugging scripts, and managing resources. Safari also adds utilities specific to the Apple ecosystem, such as simulating iOS devices or using experimental features designed for their platforms.

However, it is advisable to explore the different panels, since Each browser implements its development tools in a particular way.Spend some time familiarizing yourself with Safari's menus and shortcuts.

Useful tips and tricks for advanced users

Beyond the basics, there are some Tips to help you get even more out of developer mode in Safari for Mac:

  • Customize the toolbar: You can move and rearrange panels in the web inspector to suit your needs.
  • Use the inspector's history: Safari saves your sessions, allowing you to go back if you experiment or modify complex elements.
  • Activate and deactivate resources on the fly: Ideal for testing changes without modifying original files.
  • Try dark mode Safari to reduce eye strain during long sessions.
  • Use the options to disable cache or simulate slow connections from the Development menu to check the real performance of your websites.

Common mistakes and how to fix them

While activating or using developer mode, some users may encounter problems or error messages. The most common ones are usually due to:

  • The Development menu does not appear: Try closing and reopening Safari. If it still doesn't display, make sure you have the latest version of the browser.
  • The inspector does not load correctlyThis can happen if the webpage has heavy scripts or if Safari extensions are blocking elements. Try disabling third-party extensions or reloading the webpage.
  • Shortcuts that don't work: Confirm that you are using the Spanish keyboard and that there are no conflicts with other system shortcuts.

If none of this works, you can reset Safari preferences or reinstall the browser from the App Store.

Enabling developer mode in Safari for Mac is a crucial resource for both curious users and web development professionals.. It allows you to access advanced controls, edit code in real time, debug scripts, and experiment with new technologies safely and efficiently. Apple emphasizes privacy and ease of use, so activation is simple, reversible, and very intuitive.

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