Chrome Desktop Mode on iPhone: How to View Websites in Full Version

When browsing on your iPhone, websites often load in a mobile-friendly format. While this is convenient for smaller screens, some users prefer to view the desktop version for better functionality. Chrome and Safari offer ways to switch to desktop mode on iPhone. Below are step-by-step methods to enable desktop browsing easily.

Temporary Desktop Mode for a Single Page (Safari)

If you only need the desktop version for a specific page, follow these steps:

Step	Action
1	Open the Safari browser on your iPhone.
2	Enter the website URL in the address bar and tap Go.
3	Locate the aA button on the left side of the address bar.
4	Tap aA to reveal a menu.
5	Select Request Desktop Website from the menu.

This change only applies to the current tab. If you open a new tab or revisit the site later, it will return to mobile mode.

Keep Desktop Mode for a Specific Website (Safari)

For sites you frequently visit and prefer in desktop mode, adjust the settings permanently:

Step	Action
1	Launch Safari and visit the website.
2	Tap aA near the address bar.
3	From the menu, select Website Settings.
4	Locate Request Desktop Website and toggle it On.
5	Tap Done to save the settings.

Now, whenever you visit this website in Safari, it will load in desktop mode automatically. If you want to switch to mobile view, return to Website Settings and toggle Request Desktop Website off.

Always Load All Websites in Desktop Mode (Safari)

If you prefer browsing all sites in desktop mode, adjust Safari’s settings:

Step	Action
1	Open Settings on your iPhone.
2	Scroll down and tap Safari.
3	Under Settings for Websites, select Request Desktop Website.
4	Toggle All Websites to On.

With this setting enabled, every website will load in desktop mode by default. If you change your mind, revisit the settings and toggle All Websites off.

Enable Desktop Mode in Chrome on iPhone

Safari isn’t the only option for browsing in desktop mode. Chrome users can also switch between mobile and desktop views:

Step	Action
1	Open the Chrome app on your iPhone.
2	Type the website URL in the address bar and tap Go.
3	Tap the three-dot menu (•••) in the bottom right corner.
4	Scroll through the menu and select Request Desktop Site.

Now, the website will display in desktop mode for this session. If you go to another page within the same site, it may also stay in desktop mode. Repeat the steps to switch back to the mobile version and tap Request Mobile Site.

Another way to access desktop mode in Chrome is through the Share icon (next to the address bar). Scroll down in the options and tap Request Desktop Site.

Why Use Desktop Mode on iPhone?

Switching to desktop mode can improve your browsing experience in multiple ways:

• Full Features: Some websites limit functionality on mobile versions. Switching to desktop mode allows access to all features.
• Better Layout: Some sites display content differently on mobile, making searching harder. Desktop mode provides the entire layout.
• Improved Editing: If you're working with online forms, spreadsheets, or design tools, the desktop version usually offers more options.
• Website Compatibility: Some websites are poorly optimized for mobile. Desktop mode may fix the issue if a page isn't loading correctly.

Things to Keep in Mind

While desktop mode can be helpful, it has some drawbacks:

• Smaller Text & Icons: Since desktop websites are designed for larger screens, text and buttons may appear tiny on your iPhone.
• Slower Performance: Loading a complete desktop website requires more data and processing power, which may slow browsing.
• May Not Work on All Sites: Some websites detect mobile browsers and force the mobile view regardless of settings.

Following these steps, you can easily switch between mobile and desktop views on your iPhone using Chrome or Safari. Adjust the settings as needed to optimize your browsing experience. Desktop mode gives you more control over how websites appear and function, whether for work or personal use.