Safari 12.0.3
Apple has released Safari 12.0.3 for macOS 10.13.6 High Sierra and 10.12.6 Sierra to address several security vulnerabilities. The new version prevents maliciously crafted Web content from leading to a cross-site scripting attack and improves memory handling to thwart arbitrary code execution. In addition, readers are reporting that 12.0.3 may also fix problems with crashes related to accessing .webloc files (what you get when you drag a URL from Safari to the Finder) in Sierra. Let us know in the comments if you’re still seeing issues with .webloc files in Sierra. Safari 12.0.3 is available only via Software Update. (Free, release notes, macOS 10.13.6 and 10.12.6)
Well, I didn’t expect that.
I just applied the Safari 12.0.3 update on my iMac running Sierra.
Imagine my surprise when I launch it, and my window opens to this URL:
Safari has been set to open to Google.com on all my Macs for something like forever. Okay, 15 years or so. I like opening to a non-portal page, and classic Google is a refreshingly minimalist way to start a browsing session.
Naturally, the Apple.com window wants me to know what shiny objects I can purchase.
Apple.com/start screenshot
I’m really hoping this is just a consequence of addressing the vulnerabilities that were targeted by this update, and not a whole new direction for Apple.
Now, off to fix my homepage setting.…
…and, Safari is programmed to ask “Are you sure you want to change your Homepage to Google Search? Google searches can be started from the Safari smart address bar without being on the Google web page.” (or something like that)
this box
I know, right?