Google is working on a guided Safari import tool for iOS
Google is building an iOS feature that will allow Safari users to switch to Chrome directly on their iPhone, without a desktop computer. The guided “Safari import” tool was spotted by The MacObserver and relies on the Export Browsing Data functionality of iOS.
- Open Safari’s app settings
- Tap Export Browsing Data
- Choose the data you want to export
- Save the ZIP file to Downloads
Afterward, Google offers a step-by-step import flow, allowing users choose what data they want to bring over. Among the options are passwords, bookmarks, browsing history, and credit cards, which are then saved to the user’s Google Account.
It’s probably launching soon
The process to switch from Safari to Chrome on iOS. | Images credit — The MacObserver
One nifty detail that suggests the feature is likely launching soon is that once the import is completed, Chrome sends a warning that the exported Safari file contains private information and gives a quick option to delete it. The feature is part of the latest Chrome beta for iOS, so it may be included in the next public version of the browser.That would be a welcome change, as switching from Safari on mobile is still quite complicated. You either need to start from zero on your new browser or resort to using a computer.
Make your choice
Choosing a browser is sometimes a difficult process, but I wouldn’t switch from Safari on my iPhone. Apple’s closed ecosystem makes it much less meaningful than on a desktop, but I also genuinely like mobile Safari.
