Apple’s initiative to enhance the personalization of the iPhone introduces a new feature in iOS 18.4: two new categories for setting default applications based on your location.
Translation default widely available, while Navigation is exclusive to the EU
For several years, Apple has provided default app controls within the Settings app. Recently, in iOS 18.2, this feature was enhanced with new categories and a dedicated hub.
Now, with iOS 18.4, the options for categories are expanding further.
Translation is a new category available in both the US and internationally, allowing users to switch the default from Apple’s Translate app to third-party alternatives like Google Translate.
If you are situated in the EU, you’ll also have access to the long-awaited addition: Navigation.
While it’s unfortunate that Navigation is only available to EU users, those in the EU can set their default from Apple Maps to another app, like Google Maps.
The various default app categories function slightly differently, but generally, your chosen default app will be utilized by links and built-in OS tools throughout your device for specific functions.
For instance, if you set Waze as your Navigation default, tapping an address from a friend’s iMessage would automatically open that location in your preferred app.
You can configure default apps on your iPhone by navigating to Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Default Apps.
Are you considering changing default apps in iOS 18.4? Share your thoughts in the comments.
