iOS 18.2: How to Change Your Default Apps

iOS 18.2 Default App Changes

iOS 18.2 introduces a centralized hub in Settings > Apps > Default Apps, simplifying default app management. This impacts how links, URLs, and specific actions are handled on your iPhone.

Categories and Functionality

Eight categories are available for setting defaults:

• Email: For composing new emails.
• Messaging: For composing new messages.
• Calling: For making calls. Related: WhatsApp's New iPhone Dialer.
• Call Filtering: For call filtering and identification.
• Browser App: For opening links and web browsing.
• Passwords & Codes: For AutoFill, verification, and QR codes. Multiple apps can be selected.
• Contactless App: For NFC interactions with contactless readers.
• Keyboards: For keyboard switching.

Availability may vary by region due to Apple's policies. Installing third-party apps adds them as options within these categories. Learn more about the history of iOS.

New in iOS 18.2

Messaging, Calling, and Contactless App defaults are new to iOS 18.2, previously scattered throughout Settings. This update streamlines the process, offering a user-friendly way to customize app behavior. For other iOS updates, see iOS 18 Rollout Challenges.