iOS 18.2 Introduces New Default Apps for iPhone: Here’s How to Set Them Up

iOS 18.2 has officially launched, bringing a host of impressive Apple Intelligence features along with a significant redesign of the Mail app. This update also enables users to set new default apps on their iPhones. Here’s a quick guide on how it functions.

iOS 18.2 introduces expanded categories for default apps and a new Settings hub

For years, the iPhone has allowed users a few options for selecting new default apps. In iOS 14, for instance, it became possible to designate new defaults for email and web browsing.

However, the options have been somewhat limited.

With iOS 18.2, the available categories for default apps are broadening, allowing you to manage your new defaults from a streamlined hub.

After upgrading to iOS 18.2, navigate to the Settings app, then to Apps, where you’ll find a new menu labeled Default Apps.

This provides a central location for setting default apps on your iPhone across eight distinct categories.

Modifying your default apps and its implications

What does it mean to change your default apps? According to Apple:

Manage which apps your iPhone will automatically use for actions like sending emails, web browsing, and more.

For instance, whenever you click on a link to an email, phone number, or standard URL, the chosen default app will be invoked. Typically, Apple’s built-in apps serve as defaults (like Mail, Messages, Safari, Wallet, etc.), but you have the flexibility to change these defaults.

Here are all the available options, along with an explanation of what changing the default entails:

• Email: This application will be selected for composing new emails.
• Messaging: This application will be used for creating new messages.
• Calling: This application will facilitate phone calls.
• Call Filtering: This application will manage call filtering and identification.
• Browser App: This application will open links and enable web browsing.
• Passwords & Codes: Multiple apps can be selected for AutoFill purposes, including a distinct app for setting up verification and QR codes.
• Contactless App: This app will be automatically chosen when utilizing NFC with contactless readers.
• Keyboards: These keyboards will be accessible via the keyboard switcher.

Please note, the categories displayed may vary based on your location and Apple’s global policies. If you reside in the US, you will see the eight categories listed above. In the EU, for example, you might encounter additional options.

Should you lack any third-party apps installed within a particular category, you will only see Apple’s default apps. However, downloading alternatives from the App Store will make them visible within the Default Apps section as potential options.

While several of these options existed previously, they were scattered throughout various settings, making them harder to locate. In iOS 18.2, three categories—Messaging, Calling, and Contactless App—are entirely new.

Have you made any changes to your default apps in iOS 18.2? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

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