Published on October 26th, 2023
macOS Sonoma introduces a wealth of new features worth exploring, from standout elements like video screensavers, and desktop Widgets, to a brand-new Game Mode.
Yet, beneath the surface, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known improvements in macOS Sonoma that can simplify your daily routine.
One such feature that I initially overlooked is the ability to transform any website into a web app, offering you the convenience of running it as a separate program, distinct from Safari.
While this may seem trivial at first glance, delving into how it functions reveals its true value.
At first glance, this might seem trivial, but the power lies in its practicality. Imagine having quick access to your frequently used websites, pinned neatly to your Dock for instant retrieval.
Moreover, websites designed to send notifications can alert you through red badges on the web app icon, mirroring traditional apps.
Creating a web app allows you to customize its icon, title, and even the browser window’s color scheme.
More importantly, it acts as a focused tool, preventing distractions like social media browsing. Plus, web apps operate independently, devoid of any browsing history or bookmarks from your Safari profiles.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to turn your favorite websites into web apps, enhancing your browsing experience on MacBooks, Mac mini, iMac, and more.
How To Transform Websites Into Apps Using macOS Sonoma
Continue reading for step-by-step guidance on transforming a website into a web app.
Kindly ensure that your Mac is equipped with macOS Sonoma and Safari to execute the process of converting web pages into web apps.
1. Access The Website In Safari
The initial step involves launching the website you wish to convert into a web app through Safari.
It’s important to note that if you’re using an alternate browser, such as Google Chrome, you’ll need to switch to Safari for this process to function correctly.
Web apps are especially beneficial for frequently visited websites that offer regular updates, such as email inboxes and social media platforms.
2. How To Add The Website To Dock From The File Menu
Turning a website into a web app is a straightforward process. Just access the File menu located in the taskbar at the top of your screen and choose “Add to Dock.”
This action will integrate the website into your Mac’s Dock as a web app.
3. How To Personalize Your New Web App
At this point, an “Add to Dock” window will pop up, presenting you with fields for personalized adjustments.
You have the option to modify the title and URL of your web app within this window. Furthermore, to set a unique icon, simply click the empty icon on the left side of the menu.
4. Further Personalize Your Web App
That’s the entire process! You now have an icon on your Dock that grants you one-click access to your chosen website in a dedicated Safari window.
This controlled environment ensures that you stay within the web app and your activity remains unlogged on any other Safari profile.
If you’d like to further personalize your web app, you can do so by opening it and then clicking the web app’s title in the Mac taskbar at the top of your screen. From the ensuing menu, select “Settings.”
5. Utilizing The Web App Settings Menu
Within the web app Settings menu, you have the flexibility to make additional customizations.
This includes the ability to alter the title, URL, icon, and the chosen color scheme.
Moreover, you can decide whether you wish to have Safari’s navigation controls visible within your web app; these controls can be handy if you anticipate the need to navigate backward and forward.
Additionally, you can manage privacy settings, granting or denying permissions for your app to access your microphone and camera, enabling or disabling notifications, and choosing whether to clear website data from the app.
Feature Image Source: Farzad
