How to Change the Default Browser on iPhone

Every link on iPhone opens in Safari until you tell it otherwise. Once another browser is installed, changing the default takes a minute in Settings.

Install the browser you want to use

Open the App Store and install the browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, or DuckDuckGo. Only apps that Apple has approved as browsers appear in the default list, and a browser that is not installed will not show up.

Open Default Apps in Settings

On iOS 18.2 and later, open Settings, Apps, and tap Default Apps at the top of the screen. On older versions of iOS there is no Default Apps screen; instead scroll through Settings to the browser's own name and tap it.

Tap Browser

Tap Browser. The list shows Safari and every installed app that can act as a default browser. On older iOS, the equivalent row inside the browser's settings page is labeled Default Browser App.

Choose the browser

Tap the browser you want. A checkmark appears next to it, and the change applies immediately. There is nothing to restart.

Test a link

Open Mail or Messages and tap any link. It should open in the browser you chose. If it still opens in Safari, go back to Settings, Apps, Default Apps, Browser and confirm the selection.

If you change your mind. Safari stays installed and works as before. Return to the same Browser screen and tap Safari to make it the default again.

If you also want to change Mail or other defaults. The Default Apps screen also lists Email, Messaging, Calling, Keyboards, and other categories. Each one works the same way: tap the category and pick the app.