How To Change Default Apps On Android

When you tap a link, open a document or make a phone call, your Android phone uses an app to handle that action. If you have more than one suitable app installed, you can choose which one should open by default.

For example, you can choose a different browser for opening links or select another messaging app for text messages. You don't need to uninstall your existing apps to make these changes.

Here's how to change the default apps on your Android phone.

How To Change Default Apps On Android

You can manage most default app settings directly from your phone's Settings menu.

1. Open Settings on your Android phone.
2. Tap Apps.
3. Select Default apps or Choose default apps.
4. Tap the category you want to change, such as Browser app, Phone app or SMS app.
5. Select the app you want to use.

Your phone will use the selected app for supported tasks in that category.

The menu names may differ slightly on Samsung, Tecno, itel, Infinix and Xiaomi phones. If you don't see the option straight away, look through the Apps menu or use the Settings search bar.

How To Change Your Default Browser On Android

If you prefer a different browser for opening web links, you can set it as your default. Supported links will then open in your chosen browser.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps.
3. Select Default apps.
4. Choose Browser app.
5. Select your preferred browser from the list.

If the browser you want isn't listed, install it first and return to the Default apps menu.

How To Change Your Default Phone Or SMS App

Android also lets you choose which compatible app handles calls and text messages. The available options depend on your device and the apps installed.

To change your default phone app:

1. Open Settings and tap Apps.
2. Select Default apps.
3. Tap Phone app.
4. Choose the calling app you want to use.

To change your default SMS app:

1. Go to Settings and open Apps.
2. Select Default apps.
3. Tap SMS app.
4. Choose your preferred messaging app.

Some phones may offer only one compatible option for these categories.

How To Change Which App Opens Links

You may want certain links to open in a particular app rather than in a browser. For example, supported links may open directly in an installed social media or shopping app.

To adjust this setting:

1. Open Settings and tap Apps.
2. Select the app you want to change.
3. Look for Open by default or Opening links.
4. Adjust the available options for opening supported links.

The exact settings depend on your Android version and phone brand.

How To Clear A Default App Setting

If you've selected the wrong app or want Android to ask you which app to use again, you may be able to clear the existing default.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps.
3. Select the app that opens automatically.
4. Look for Open by default or Set as default.
5. Tap Clear defaults if the option is available.

The next time you perform the relevant action, your phone may ask you to choose an app. If it gives you the option, select Just once to use an app temporarily or Always to make it your default.

Some Android versions manage these settings differently, so Clear defaults may not appear for every app.

What To Do If You Can't Find Default Apps In Settings

If the Default apps option isn't where you expect it to be, use the search bar in Settings and type Default apps.

You can also check the Apps menu for a similarly named option, such as Choose default apps or Default applications. The wording varies between manufacturers.

If the app you want to use doesn't appear in the list, check that it's installed and supports the task you're trying to assign to it. Android only lists compatible apps for each default category.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Do I Change The Default Apps On Android?

Open Settings, go to Apps and select Default apps. Choose the category you want to change, then select your preferred app.

2. How Do I Change My Default Browser On Android?

Open Settings, tap Apps, select Default apps and choose Browser app. Then select your preferred browser from the list.

3. Why Can't I Find The Default Apps Option On My Phone?

The option may have a different name depending on your phone brand and Android version. Search for Default apps in Settings or check under the Apps menu.

4. Will Changing A Default App Delete My Files?

No. Changing a default app does not delete your files or uninstall your existing apps. It only changes which application Android uses for a particular task.

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