How to Change Default Browser in iOS and iPadOS

This guide shows you how to set a third-party browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge as your default on iPhone and iPad. Once set, links from Mail, Messages, and other apps open in your chosen browser instead of Safari. You’ll need iOS 14 or later (or iPadOS 14+), and the browser app you want to use must already be installed.

What You’ll Need

An iPhone or iPad running iOS/iPadOS 14 or newer.
The browser app you want to set as default (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, DuckDuckGo) installed from the App Store.
Your device passcode or Face ID/Touch ID to access Settings.

Step-by-Step

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. It’s the gray gear icon on your home screen.
Scroll down the settings list and tap the name of the browser you want to set as default. For example, if you want Chrome, tap Chrome. The list is alphabetical, so look under C, F, E, etc.
In that app’s settings page, look for the section labeled Default Browser App. Tap on it.
A list of supported browsers will appear. Tap the browser you want to use as your default. A checkmark will appear next to it.
Tap the back button (<) in the top-left corner to exit. Your selection is saved automatically.
Test it by tapping a link in Mail, Messages, or a note. The link should open in your newly selected browser.

Common Mistakes

Looking in the wrong place: The setting is not in Safari’s settings. It’s inside the settings page of the browser you want to use.
Not updating iOS: If you don’t see the “Default Browser App” option, your device may be running iOS 13 or earlier. Update to iOS 14 or later via Settings > General > Software Update.
Assuming all browsers support it: Only browsers that have updated their apps to support the default browser feature will appear in the list. If your browser isn’t listed, check for an app update in the App Store.
Forgetting to confirm: After tapping a browser in the list, make sure a checkmark appears. If you just tap and swipe away, it might not save.

Tips

You can change your default browser as often as you like. Just repeat the steps above.
If you use multiple browsers, remember that the default only affects links from other apps. Links you tap inside a browser stay in that browser.
Some browsers, like Chrome, can also import bookmarks and passwords from Safari during setup. This makes the switch easier.
If you want to keep using Safari for certain tasks, you can still open it manually. The default setting only controls which app opens when you tap a link.
On iPadOS, the same steps work, but you can also drag links to the Dock to open them in a specific browser.

Troubleshooting

I don’t see “Default Browser App” in the browser’s settings.
This usually means the browser app hasn’t been updated to support the feature, or your iOS version is too old. First, update the browser app from the App Store. Then, check your iOS version in Settings > General > About. If it’s iOS 13 or earlier, update your device to iOS 14 or later.

I set Chrome as default, but links still open in Safari.
Go back to Settings > Chrome and confirm that the “Default Browser App” section shows Chrome with a checkmark. If it does, try restarting your iPhone or iPad. Also, make sure you’re testing with a link from an app like Mail or Messages—links within some apps may have their own in-app browser.

My browser isn’t in the list of options.
Only browsers that have implemented the default browser API appear. If your browser is not listed, it may not support the feature yet. Try updating the app or using a different browser that does support it.

The setting resets after a restart.
This is rare, but if it happens, try updating iOS to the latest version. If the issue persists, contact Apple Support or the browser’s support team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does changing my default browser affect Safari?

No, Safari remains installed and fully functional. It just won’t open links from other apps unless you choose it manually.

Can I set a default browser for only certain types of links?

No, iOS uses one default browser for all links that open in a browser. You can’t set different defaults for different link types.

Will my bookmarks and passwords transfer automatically?

Not automatically. Most browsers offer a one-time import tool when you first open them. You can also manually export/import bookmarks via the browser’s settings.

Does this work on all iPads?

Yes, as long as the iPad runs iPadOS 14 or later. The steps are the same as on iPhone.

Can I set a default browser without going into Settings?

No, the default browser setting is only available in the Settings app. You cannot change it from within the browser itself.

What if I want to go back to Safari as my default?

Simply go to Settings > Safari > Default Browser App and select Safari. It’s always available as an option.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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