In this guide we will discuss about : “How to Change Default Apps Like Message on iPhone (Works Outside EU Too)” . Thanks to the rules from the EU, changing the default iPhone applications like calling or messaging was possible after changing the default applications like browser and mail in iOS 14. We have provided detailed list here along with the references.

Prerequisites

There are criteria you need to meet before you can change the default apps on your iPhone:

• iPhone should have iOS 18.2 or later (does not have to be iPhone 16).
• To check your iOS version go to Settings, followed by General and scrolls down to About.
• To update iOS, it is easy through the Settings option > General > Software Update.
• Download other clients from the App Store or from the 2nd and 3rd parties (if you are from the EU) prior to updating the default app.
• Works for iPads too.

How to Check Your iOS Version

• Open Settings on your iPhone.
• Tap on General.
• Select About.
• Find out the Software Version. Ensure it is 18.2 or higher.

How to Update iOS iPhone

• Go to Settings.
• Tap on General.
• Select Software Update.
• If an update is available, you will prompted on the screen to download and install update.

How to Alter Default iMessage and Phone App

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Open Settings on your iPhone.
• They should go to Apps > Default Apps.
• This way you will see some default options that can be changed like Messaging or Calling, etc.
• Click on the first box and choose the app’s category you would like to set as the default.
• From the list you will see all the apps that are compatible with Bixby, select one to be your new default app.

New Default App Categories Which Can Be Changed

Here’s a list of categories where you can change the default apps:

• Email
• Message
• Calling
• Call Filtering
• Browser App
• Passwords & Codes
• Keyboards

How to Change Default Apps [A Detailed Guide]

Switching Your Default Messaging Service

• Go to Settings.
• Once in the Settings tab tap on Apps and then choose Default Apps.
• Choose Message from the list.
• Choose the different messaging app that you have downloaded.

Tip: Ensure the alternative app supports being set as the default. Some popular apps may require updates or specific permissions.

Changing the Default Phone Application

• Press Windows + I for opening settings and go to Apps & features.
• Select Calling.
• Select from list of applications that are available for making the call.

Note: Today, there are but few 3rd-party calling apps out in the market but analysts are optimistic for the future as more developers unveil more compatible apps.

The Most Essential Substitute Apps for Consideration

• Email Clients: Outlook of Microsoft, Spark, Gmail
• Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal
• Phone Apps: Google Voice, Skype
• Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, DuckDuckGo

Türevat Advantages of Changing Default Systems

• Personalization: This applies to your iPhone type or model and your preferred settings.
• Efficiency: The recommendations should be made with the apps that offer better features or better user interface.
• Integration: Some apps go even further and integrate better in other services that you might be using.

Typical Problems with the Service and Recommendations on How to Overcome Them

• App Not Listed? Make certain the app is the newest version and it can be set as default app.
• App Permissions: One has to ensure that the application has appropriate permissions to function as a default.
• Reverting Changes: If you are interested in returning to the above default applications, then just the same, select from the list of their applications.

Read More : “How to Share Files With iPhone From OnePlus Using O+ Connect“

Conclusion

Apple has long kept the iOS environment restrictive and highly staged, allowing users only a few options to change. In this recent change to deny one from changing the default app Apple it is seen to be giving user more control than before. It is advantageous since it is moving towards being more concentrated on the client.

FAQs

Q1: If you do not get Default Apps option in Settings then you have to follow the next method which is described below?

A1: Make sure your iPhone has the latest iOS – 18.2 or higher. To update your iOS, you go to Settings, then General, then choose Software Update.

Q2: Is it possible to make any application become the default for messaging?

A2: Oh no, only these are the apps that you can make default and only if they are of the right version to support this feature.

Q3: Should third party apps be used as default?

A3: With Apps getting downloaded through itunes, they have been tested an compelte hence are safe. Be very careful in downloading apps from the internet.

Q4: Can I also change the default apps of the iPad too?

A4: Indeed, the process is possible for iPad tablets with the iPadOS 18.2 and later.

Q5: There are many advantages os go changing the default browser?

A5: There are benefits like the better privacy, the absence of annoying ads, the opportunity to work in synergy with the desktop counterparts.