Change Default Apps on iPhone & iPad

Changing Default Apps on iOS

While Apple initially restricted the ability to modify default applications, options now exist for users to personalize their iOS experience.

It is possible to utilize preferred applications for tasks like web browsing, email management, and navigation, rather than being limited to Apple’s native offerings.

Methods for Altering Default Applications

One method historically employed involved jailbreaking your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. This process grants deeper system access.

However, jailbreaking is not the sole, nor the advised, approach to changing default apps.

Indeed, it’s generally unnecessary to jailbreak solely for the purpose of app customization, unless other benefits of jailbreaking are desired.

Alternative, officially supported methods have emerged, providing a safer and more straightforward way to personalize your device.

Browser Selection: Choose your preferred web browser.
Email Client Customization: Set your desired email application.
Mapping App Preference: Utilize your favorite mapping service.

These changes allow for a more tailored user experience within the iOS ecosystem.

Modifying Default Applications Through Jailbreaking

Jailbreaking represents a method for gaining unrestricted access to the iOS operating system. This is often discussed in relation to jailbreaking explained, covering iPhones and iPads.

Essentially, jailbreaking allows users to bypass software restrictions imposed by Apple. Following this process, it becomes possible to install Cydia tweaks.

These tweaks provide the functionality to designate preferred applications for common tasks. This includes selecting a default web browser, email application, and mapping service.

Considerations Regarding Jailbreaking

Despite offering this level of customization, jailbreaking isn't universally advised. The potential drawbacks often outweigh the benefits for the average user.

Jailbreaking can introduce instability and security vulnerabilities to your device. Furthermore, it may delay or prevent timely operating system updates.

Similar to the concept of rooting on Android devices, jailbreaking is a complex process. It's generally not recommended unless you have a strong technical understanding and are willing to accept the associated risks.

For most individuals, the limitations of iOS are not significant enough to justify the complications introduced by jailbreaking.

Selecting Your Preferred Applications

A common restriction on iOS devices has been overcome by numerous applications offering an integrated setting. This allows users to designate their preferred browser or email client. As an illustration, within the Flipboard application, navigating to the Settings menu and selecting 'Browser' enables the choice of Chrome or an alternative browser.

Consequently, links accessed through Flipboard will open in the user-specified browser, rather than Safari. Developers have proactively addressed the absence of system-wide default application selection on iOS.

This has been achieved by incorporating support for individual application settings. Users are required to examine the settings of each application they utilize and, where available, designate their preferred default applications. Apple permits developers to implement this functionality.

However, the current approach is fragmented and inefficient. A more streamlined solution would be for Apple to enable users to establish system-wide default applications. This would simplify the process and enhance user experience.

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Leveraging App Interoperability

Many applications possess the capability to initiate other programs. Consequently, certain developers have capitalized on this functionality to create integrated app ecosystems designed for seamless collaboration and mutual default usage.

Google’s suite of applications for iOS devices exemplifies this approach. For instance, having Chrome, Gmail, and Google Maps installed creates a connected experience. Selecting a link within the Gmail application will automatically direct you to the Chrome browser.

Similarly, tapping a map link in Chrome will launch the Google Maps application. Furthermore, choosing a business’s email address within Google Maps will open a new message composition window in Gmail.

To prioritize Google’s services as your defaults, a simple strategy involves maximizing your use of Google’s applications. This will encourage their interconnected functionality and minimize reliance on the native iOS apps.

When utilizing third-party applications, it is beneficial to seek those that provide options for customizing your preferred app selections.

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Leveraging the Share Sheet Functionality

Related: Utilizing App Extensions on iPhones and iPads Running iOS 8

With the release of iOS 8, extensions were integrated into the system’s native "Share" sheet. When a Share button is available within any application, tapping it allows content to be opened in any app configured to participate in the share sheet.

Consider Pocket as an illustration. By default, Pocket utilizes its own integrated web browser for displaying web pages. If a user prefers to open links in an alternative browser, they can access the Share sheet by tapping the Share button, then selecting "More."

Applications are able to declare compatibility with web pages, positioning themselves as potential Share targets. This allows users to activate Share extensions for their preferred apps, causing them to appear within the presented list.

Pocket also features a dedicated "Chrome" share option. Numerous applications incorporate built-in support for frequently used third-party apps, such as Chrome and Gmail, streamlining the process of utilizing a user’s preferred application over Apple’s default options.

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Safari Bookmarklets: Opening Links in Alternative Browsers

For those new to the concept, bookmarklets are concise scripts stored as bookmarks. When activated, these scripts execute on the currently displayed webpage. Safari, on both macOS and iOS, provides support for these convenient tools.

Furthermore, iOS incorporates a URL scheme enabling Safari to initiate applications. This functionality allows for the creation of a bookmarklet that redirects the current webpage to another browser, such as Google Chrome. Users who favor Chrome over Safari can benefit from adding this bookmarklet to their Safari toolbar.

Utilizing the "Open in Chrome" Bookmarklet

This bookmarklet provides a quick way to transfer webpages from Safari to Chrome. Installation instructions are available on the linked page. Once installed, simply tap the Bookmarks icon within Safari and select the "Open in Chrome" bookmark to instantly open the current page in Chrome.

The utility of this extends beyond simply browser preference. If an application unexpectedly directs you to Safari when clicking a link, this bookmarklet can reroute that link directly to Chrome, streamlining your browsing experience.

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Evolving iOS Capabilities

Recent updates to iOS have expanded user control over system settings. Apple now permits users to select their preferred keyboard.

Moreover, third-party browsers are now granted access to Safari’s powerful Nitro JavaScript engine and the new extension system. The ability to designate a default web browser and email client represents a significant improvement, addressing a long-standing user request.