Manage Default Apps in One Place in iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2

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Discover the New Default Apps Feature in iOS 18.2

January 16, 2025January 10, 2025

A useful new feature in iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 makes managing default apps on your iPhone and iPad easier than ever. Default apps open automatically for specific tasks, like clicking a web link or auto-filling a password. Previously, changing these apps required navigating individual app settings, but now you can simply go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps to see and adjust all your options in one place.

iOS 18.2 also introduces new Calling and Messaging categories for default apps, but third-party apps like WhatsApp and Signal aren’t yet supported. For now, these remain exclusive to Apple’s Phone and Messages apps, though future updates could bring more flexibility.

This feature is a great reminder to explore alternatives to Apple’s built-in apps, like Mail and Safari. Whether you want more robust features or better privacy, customizing your default apps can enhance your experience.

(Featured image based on an original by iStock.com/Thicha Satapitanon)

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