How (and why) to disable JavaScript on iPhone and iPad
Now let’s see if this site loads without JavaScript…
You might want to boost battery life, be a little more secure, or even attempting to peek past a subscription wall — if that’s you then you may want to try this…
Why might you want to disable JavaScript?
JavaScript is an important component of most online experiences, used to make confirmation boxes, sign-up forms, web apps and many forms of advertising function. Many publishers who hide content behind a firewall use it to protect their content.
Despite its many uses there are several reasons users may want to temporarily disable JavaScript on their iOS device:
- To browse a little faster without the interactive elements (though you will see lots of missing elements, some of which you may like).
- For tougher security, particularly if you are working on a highly secure enterprise network.
- To reduce the load of some websites that simply use too many interactive elements and ads, which can sometimes degrade your overall experience.
- To trick your way through firewalls (which doesn’t always work).
- To tweak a little more battery life from your device.
I tend to temporarily disable JavaScript when accessing only selected sites and services, leaving it active the rest of the time.
How to disable JavaScript on iPhone and iPad
It’s very easy to disable JavaScript on iPhone and iPad.
- Open Settings>Safari.
- Open the Advanced section at the bottom of that page
- Now toggle JavaScript to off.
Access the site or service you wish to access JavaScript free.
You will find some (but not all) sites and services no longer work, which is why I recommend only disabling it when you need to do so. There’s an interesting account of life without using JavaScript here.
I disable JavaScript at times also when I just want to read text. The pages open so much faster (and I even have the latest iPad). Many web sites are way too busy with multiple videos, pop ups, and flashing ads. It drives me crazy, and I don’t even mind static ads. I even click on them from time to time. I wish there was an iPad app to easily toggle JavaScript on and off.
By the way, I read this helpful article and entered my comment with JavaScript turned off.
iPhones run encrypted traffic and JavaScript only makes your Apple device(s) easier for someone to get access to because JavaScript stops your encryption. Simple as that.