How to Change Default Apps on macOS, Windows, and Ubuntu Desktop

Changing default apps on your computer can enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow by allowing you to use your preferred applications for specific tasks. For example, you might find it frustrating to copy an email address from your web browser to then paste it into a separate mail app. The purpose of this article is to help you simplify your processes, making it possible to simply click on a link and have your computer open up your favourite app for that purpose.

Whether you're using macOS, Windows, or Ubuntu Desktop, the process for changing default apps is relatively straightforward. Here's how to do it:
Changing Default Apps on macOS:
  • Navigate to System Preferences by clicking on the Apple menu icon () in the top-left corner of your screen, then select System Preferences.
  • Select General: In the System Preferences window, click on the General icon.
  • Choose Default Apps: Scroll down until you find the Default web browser and Default email reader options. Click on the dropdown menus next to these options to select your preferred applications.
  • Close System Preferences: Once you've selected your desired default apps, close the System Preferences window. Your changes will be automatically saved.
Changing Default Apps on Windows:
  • Open Settings: Click on the Start menu icon (), then select the gear-shaped Settings icon to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Apps: In the Settings app, click on the Apps category.
  • Select Default Apps: In the left sidebar, click on Default apps. Here, you'll see options to change your default web browser, email app, music player, and more.
  • Choose Your Preferred Apps: Click on the current default app under each category (e.g., Email or Web browser), then select your preferred app from the list of available options.
  • Close Settings: Once you've selected your desired default apps, close the Settings app. Your changes will be applied automatically.
Changing Default Apps on Ubuntu Desktop:
  • Open Settings: Click on the Activities menu in the top-left corner of your screen, then type Settings and press Enter to open the Settings app.
  • Navigate to Details: In the Settings app, click on the Details icon.
  • Go to Default Applications: In the left sidebar, click on Default Applications. Here, you'll find options to change your default web browser, email client, and more.
  • Choose Your Preferred Apps: Click on the dropdown menus next to each default application category (e.g., Web), then select your preferred app from the list of available options.
  • Close Settings: Once you've selected your desired default apps, close the Settings app. Your changes will be saved automatically.
By following these simple steps, you can customize your operating system to use your preferred apps for various tasks, allowing you to work more efficiently and comfortably.
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