As developers, we often encounter issues with websites and web applications that can be difficult to diagnose and fix. One of the most useful tools for troubleshooting these problems is the Inspect Element feature available in popular web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari.
Did you know that this feature is also available on iPhone devices with iOS 11?
What is the Inspect Element Feature?
The Inspect Element feature allows developers to view the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code behind a website or web application, enabling them to identify and fix issues related to page rendering, layout, styles, scripts, and more. This tool can be especially useful when working on mobile devices, as it allows developers to see exactly what is causing problems on smaller screens.
How to Access the Inspect Element Feature on an iPhone with iOS 11
- Open a website or web application in Safari on your iPhone.
- Tap and hold the screen where you want to inspect the code.
- Release your finger, and you’ll see a pop-up window with the Inspect Element icon.
- Tap the Inspect Element icon, and you’ll be taken to a new page that shows the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code behind the website or web application.
What Makes the Inspect Element Feature on an iPhone Different from Traditional Web Browsers?
While the Inspect Element feature available in traditional web browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox is similar to the one on an iPhone, there are a few key differences to keep in mind:
- Limited Console: The console on an iPhone with iOS 11 is more limited than on traditional web browsers, which can make it harder to diagnose and fix certain issues. However, you can still use the console to run JavaScript commands and view error messages.
- No Developer Tools: Unlike traditional web browsers, which come with a full set of developer tools like the Console, DevTools, and the Network tab, the Inspect Element feature on an iPhone only provides access to the code behind the website or web application.
- Limited Keyboard Shortcuts: While keyboard shortcuts are available in traditional web browsers for many functions, there are fewer keyboard shortcuts available on an iPhone with iOS 11. However, you can still use the Inspect Element feature to navigate through the code and search for specific elements using the search bar at the top of the page.
Tips for Using the Inspect Element Feature on an iPhone with iOS 11
- Use the Search Bar: The search bar at the top of the Inspect Element page allows you to quickly find specific elements in the code by typing their name or class. This can be especially useful when working with large websites or complex applications.
- Collapse and Expand Sections: By default, the Inspect Element page displays all the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code at once, which can be overwhelming for smaller projects or simpler pages. However, you can collapse and expand sections of the code using the arrows next to each element, making it easier to focus on specific areas of interest.
- Use Console Commands: While the console on an iPhone with iOS 11 is more limited than on traditional web browsers, you can still use it to run JavaScript commands and view error messages. This can be especially useful for debugging issues related to JavaScript or for testing custom code.
