Apple iOS 19 Rumors and How to Change Default Apps on iPhone

Apple is gearing up to reveal iOS 19 at its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, 2024. While official details remain under wraps, rumors suggest a fresh redesign of apps, icons, and overall user interface enhancements on the iPhone. This anticipated update could mark a significant visual and functional shift for iPhone users.

Before iOS 19 arrives, Apple’s iOS 18.2 update, released in December 2023, already made a notable improvement by centralizing the ability to change default apps on the iPhone. This feature streamlines customization, allowing users to select preferred apps for various functions directly from a single settings menu.

What Are Default Apps and Why Do They Matter?

Default apps are the applications your iPhone automatically uses for specific tasks. For example, tapping a phone number on a webpage opens the Phone app to place a call. But what if you prefer using a different app like Firefox for browsing or a third-party calling app? iOS 18.2 lets you set those preferences easily, enhancing your device’s flexibility and personalization.

How to Change Your iPhone’s Default Apps

Changing your default apps is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on Apps.
3. Select Default Apps to view and change categories.

From here, you can customize defaults across several categories, including:

• App Installation (alternative app marketplaces in select regions)
• Browser app (replace Safari with apps like Firefox)
• Calling (choose apps other than Phone or FaceTime)
• Call filtering (manage caller ID and block unwanted calls)
• Contactless app (for payments, available in some regions)
• Email (choose apps other than Mail)
• Keyboard (select your preferred text-entry app)
• Messaging (choose apps other than Messages)
• Navigation (alternative to Apple Maps, region-specific)
• Password & codes (alternative apps for autofill)
• Translation (choose apps other than Translate)

If you don’t have a third-party app installed for a category, the system will default to Apple’s app or show no option. This centralized approach is a big step up from previous iOS versions, where default app settings were scattered and limited.

Evolution of Default App Customization in iOS

The ability to change default apps isn’t entirely new. iOS 14, released in 2020, allowed users to switch default email and browser apps. However, other categories were either unavailable or settings were scattered across different menus. iOS 18.2 consolidates these options and adds new categories like Messaging and Calling, making the iPhone more adaptable to user preferences.

As Apple prepares to launch iOS 19, these improvements in app customization set the stage for even more user-centric innovations. Whether you’re a developer or an iPhone user, understanding these changes can help you optimize your experience and anticipate the future of iOS.