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Set default apps on Android - heres how

  • Apr 08, 2026
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On Android, you can choose which default apps you want to use for specific purposes. This means you have the apps ready straight away and you dont have to spend a long time searching for them in the menu.

Set default apps in Android

If you havent yet specified a standard app for a file type in Android, you will automatically be asked for one the first time you open it. Under Android 12, this works as described below; the steps may be slightly different for newer or older versions of the operating system.

  • Open (for example in a file manager) a file that is not yet associated with a default app. A selection window opens at the bottom of the screen with suitable apps installed on your device.
  • Tap the app you want to use as your default app. If you want to set this permanently, select the Always option.
  • If you are still unsure, select Only this time instead. You will then be asked again the next time you access this file type.
Set default apps in Android and access them faster Image: Thomas Zick

Alternative: Set default apps in the settings

If you would prefer to specify the default apps directly in your devices settings, this is possible at least for some actions:

  • Open Settings on your smartphone or tablet.
  • Select the menu item Apps .
  • Tap Select default apps/Default apps .
  • You will now see a list of your default apps, for example for the digital assistant, your browser or the start app. Tap the entry you want to change. Then select a new default app.
How to change the default apps Image: Thomas Zick
Remove default app Image: Thomas Zick

You might also be interested in:

  • Windows 10: Change default apps - this is how it works
  • Change default apps under Windows 8.1 - this is how it works
  • Change the default open application on Mac
  • Change default programs in Ubuntu - heres how it works
  • Android: Delete pre-installed apps

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