You build a Safari extension for Mac and iPhone by creating a Safari Web Extension in Xcode. Start from the Safari Extension App template and choose Multiplatform. Write the extension in JavaScript, HTML and CSS. Test it, then ship it inside a containing app. Apple’s documentation describes this as a general workflow. The pages cited here don’t describe behavior that is specific to macOS 27 or iOS 27, so this guide doesn’t claim any new APIs, templates or rules for those releases. Check the release notes for the Xcode and SDK you use.
Choose the extension type first
Apple supports two architectures, and they are not interchangeable.
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| Aspect | Safari Web Extension | Safari app extension |
|---|---|---|
| Core technology | Primarily JavaScript, HTML and CSS, with a manifest | Web technologies plus native Swift or Objective-C code |
| Cross-browser reuse | Built on the WebExtension model, so the same extension can be packaged for Apple platforms | Not the focus; it is tied to Apple’s native model |
| Delivery | Containing Mac, iOS, visionOS or Mac Catalyst app | App extension delivered within a macOS app |
| Native integration | Through the containing app | Built in, with communication with the macOS app |
Choose the Web Extension route for new work, especially if you share code with other browsers. Apple’s Safari web extensions page covers it. Choose a Safari app extension only if native macOS integration is central to the product. Apple describes that model in Safari app extensions.
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Create the Xcode project
- In Xcode, create a new project.
- Choose the Safari Extension App template.
- Select Multiplatform to target macOS and iOS together. Choose iOS or macOS for a single platform.
- Finish the setup and open the generated project.
Xcode generates default extension files: a manifest, content and background scripts, popup files, image folders and localization resources. The app targets host the extension for installation and platform integration. See Apple’s Creating a Safari web extension.
Apple notes that XCTest doesn’t support unit tests for Safari Web Extension JavaScript APIs, or UI tests in Safari. XCTest applies only to native code in the containing app, if you add Swift or Objective-C there.
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Implement the extension
- Manifest: declares the extension’s configuration and the capabilities it requests.
- Scripts: content scripts and background scripts implement behavior.
- HTML and CSS: build the popup or other interface.
- Images and localization: supply icons and user-facing strings.
Before you rely on any API, check that Apple’s documentation and your target SDK support it. Don’t assume an API is available on a platform because it works in another browser.
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Test on each platform
macOS: temporary install
Apple documents adding a temporary extension folder through Safari’s developer settings. It lets you iterate without first creating an Xcode package. Safari removes the temporary extension after 24 hours or when Safari quits.
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macOS: app-hosted
Run the containing macOS app from Xcode to install the extension in Safari, then enable it there.
iOS: containing app
- Select the iOS app scheme in Xcode.
- Choose a device or simulator.
- Run the app.
- Enable the extension in Safari’s Extensions interface, or in Settings under Safari > Extensions.
iOS testing needs an Xcode project. So do native-app messaging and distribution. Testing on a physical device requires Apple Developer Program membership. Simulator testing is possible before you join. Details are in Running your Safari web extension. Menu labels can change between Xcode and OS releases, so check them against your installed versions.
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Package and distribute
Use Xcode to package the extension for testing and distribution. Safari Web Extensions ship through a containing Mac, iOS, visionOS or Mac Catalyst app. Apple’s Safari extensions page describes App Store distribution. The pages cited here don’t state signing, metadata or review requirements specific to macOS 27 or iOS 27. Read Apple’s current submission guidance before you release.
Verify against the macOS 27 and iOS 27 SDKs
Build and run against the Xcode release that includes the macOS 27 and iOS 27 SDKs. Then check:
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- API availability and any changes to the manifest.
- Deployment targets.
- Permission prompts and how users enable the extension.
- Distribution and review requirements.
Apple’s pages show the general workflow, and the steps above follow it. Treat anything beyond that as unconfirmed until you’ve seen it in the SDK documentation.
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