Apple introduced in IOS 18.2 update A way for users to choose their favorite default apps on the iPhone. Although Apple initially promised to make this feature available only in the European Union, it is now available worldwide. So how do you enable it?
Freedom of choice and why it matters
The freedom to choose default apps on the iPhone represents a significant shift in Apple’s traditionally closed system, giving you more control over how you interact with your device. Instead of being locked into Safari for web browsing or Apple Mail for email, you can now set third-party alternatives like Google Chrome, Firefox, Gmail, and more as your default apps.
This means that when you tap on a link or email address, your iPhone will automatically open your favorite app instead of Apple’s built-in options. This change eliminates the extra steps of manually copying and pasting content between apps or navigating through Share Sheets to get to apps you actually want to use as your primary app.
In iOS 18.2, there are default app settings for Email, Messaging, Contacts, Call Filter, Browser, Passwords, and Keyboards. For EU users, there is also an additional option to install apps, choosing an alternative app store to Apple’s App Store.
On iPhone in select countries and regions, another option called “Contactless Apps” appears that lets you choose an app other than Wallet to make contactless transactions using your device’s NFC technology. Contactless apps are available in the European Economic Area (European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
How to Set Default Apps on iPhone and iPad
◉ Open “Settings” on your iPhone or iPad (must be running iOS 18.2/iPadOS 18.2 or later).
◉ Scroll down and select “Apps”.
◉ Click on “Default Apps” at the top of your apps list.
◉ Click on the desired feature to change the default setting to a different app.
◉ Follow any additional steps that appear on the screen if necessary to set up your default app.
In some cases, only one app can be the default app for a particular feature. In other cases, you can prioritize which apps your device uses. If you don't see an option to set a specific app as the default app for a feature, it's best to contact the app developer.
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