Requesting a desktop site on an iPhone 13 is simple. Open Safari, tap the AA icon in the search bar, then choose ‘Request Desktop Site’ from the dropdown menu. This quick action will reload the page and display the desktop version of the site you’re visiting.
After completing this action, the website will reload and the full desktop version will appear on your iPhone 13 screen. This version is usually more feature-rich than the mobile site, giving you access to additional tools and options not available on the mobile version.
Introduction
You’ve probably been there: squinting at your iPhone 13, trying to navigate a website that’s clearly not optimized for mobile. Maybe the text is too small, or the buttons are too close together, making it hard to click the right one. Or perhaps you need to access a feature that’s only available on the desktop site. Whatever the reason, there’s an easy solution—requesting the desktop site right from your iPhone 13.
This function is not only useful but sometimes necessary for a better browsing experience or to complete certain tasks that are not supported by the mobile version of a website. This feature is especially important for professionals who need access to full site functionalities while on the go, or for anyone who prefers the layout and features of desktop sites. With the increase in mobile browsing, knowing how to navigate this feature is becoming increasingly relevant. Ready to learn how to do it? Let’s dive right in!
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Request Desktop Site on iPhone 13
Before we get into the steps, know that by following these instructions, you’ll be able to view websites as if you were on a computer, rather than the mobile-optimized versions you’re typically presented with on your iPhone.
Step 1: Open Safari
Launch the Safari app on your iPhone 13.
Safari is the default web browser on all Apple devices, and it’s where you’ll need to be to request a desktop site. Make sure you’re on the website that you’d like to view in desktop mode before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Tap the AA Icon
In the search bar at the top of the screen, tap on the AA icon on the left side.
This AA icon may be small, but it’s your gateway to a bunch of quick options and settings for the webpage you’re on, including the switch to desktop mode.
Step 3: Select ‘Request Desktop Site’
From the dropdown menu that appears, choose ‘Request Desktop Site.’
Doing this will prompt Safari to reload the page. The website should now display as it would on a desktop browser, giving you access to all the features and functionalities of the full version.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Full Website Features | When you request a desktop site on your iPhone 13, you gain access to all the features available on the full version of the site, which can be especially helpful if the mobile site is limited. |
| Improved Navigation | Desktop sites often offer more intuitive navigation menus, making it easier to find the information you need without having to dig through condensed mobile menus. |
| Better Visibility | With a desktop site, text and buttons are usually larger and spaced out, as it’s designed for larger screens, which can make for a more comfortable browsing experience. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Smaller Touch Targets | While desktop sites may have larger text, the touch targets (like buttons and links) could be smaller and closer together, making them harder to press accurately on a touchscreen. |
| Longer Load Times | Desktop sites are often larger and more complex than mobile sites, which means they can take longer to load on your iPhone 13. |
| More Data Usage | Requesting desktop sites can use more data than their mobile counterparts, as they’re typically larger and have more content to load. |
Additional Information
The ability to request a desktop site on your iPhone 13 can be a game-changer. But remember, not all websites offer a desktop version that’s optimized for mobile devices, which could lead to a less than perfect viewing experience. You might encounter formatting issues or find that some features still don’t work as well as they would with a mouse and keyboard.
Also, keep in mind that some sites automatically redirect you back to the mobile version, especially if you’re using a cellular connection. If you find yourself constantly switching to desktop mode for certain sites, it may be worth exploring whether those sites have an app that could provide a better experience than either version of their website.
One last tip: If you’re using a site in desktop mode and want to switch back to the mobile version, simply follow the same steps and select ‘Request Mobile Site’ from the dropdown menu.
Summary
- Open Safari on your iPhone 13.
- Tap the AA icon in the search bar.
- Choose ‘Request Desktop Site’ from the dropdown menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will requesting a desktop site save my preference for that website?
No, requesting a desktop site is a one-time action. If you leave the site or close Safari, you’ll need to request the desktop site again the next time you visit.
Can I request a desktop site in browsers other than Safari?
Yes, most mobile browsers, like Chrome or Firefox, have a similar feature to request a desktop site.
What if a website doesn’t have a desktop version?
If a website doesn’t have a desktop version, your iPhone 13 will simply load the mobile site as usual.
Do all features of a desktop site work on an iPhone 13?
While most features should work, some may not function as intended due to the differences in hardware between a desktop computer and an iPhone.
Can I switch back to the mobile site after requesting the desktop version?
Yes, you can switch back to the mobile site by tapping the AA icon again and selecting ‘Request Mobile Site.’
Conclusion
Mastering the ability to request a desktop site on your iPhone 13 opens up a new level of internet browsing. It’s a handy skill that enables you to access full website functionalities that may not be available on the mobile site.
While it may not always provide the perfect experience due to screen size constraints and potential formatting issues, it can be incredibly useful in a pinch. Whether you need it for work or personal browsing, now you know how to navigate the web on your own terms. Happy browsing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.