iOS 18.2: Customize Your Default Apps for Messages, Calls, and More

In the past, changing default apps on your iPhone meant navigating individual app settings buried within the Settings app.Apple has finally innovated the process in iOS 18.2 through easy-to-use and intuitive settings to switch default applications for messaging, calling, and much more. Let’s dive in on everything you want to know about this game-changing feature.

Discover the “Default Apps” Feature in iOS 18.2

When Apple announced in August that EU users could change default messaging and calling apps, many assumed this functionality would remain region-locked.But Apple has confirmed that this feature is launching globally for iPhone and iPad users alike with iOS 18.2.

This update brings a new Default Apps section within the Settings app, allowing you to effortlessly manage and update default apps for various functions, including calls and messages.

The iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 updates introduce enhancements to the Apps area in Settings. This allows all users to manage their default apps from a dedicated Default Apps section, with new options for messaging and calling defaults now available globally.

Which Default Apps Can You Change in iOS 18.2?

While iPhones have always had limited default app customization, iOS 18.2 changes the game. You can now personalize default apps across these categories:

• Email
• Messaging
• Calling
• Call Filtering
• Web Browser
• Passwords & Codes
• Keyboards

How to Change Default Messaging or Calling Apps on Your iPhone

Follow these simple steps to set your preferred apps as defaults:

• Launch the Settings app and scroll down to the Apps section.
• Tap on Default Apps at the top of the page.

• Choose the category you’d like to update, such as Messaging or Calling.
• Select the app you wish to set as your default.

Final Remarks

iOS 18.2’s ability to change default messaging and calling apps is a welcome update that puts more control in the hands of users. This feature is bound to enhance the user experience, especially for those who rely on specific apps for communication.That said, the true potential lies in the future when Apple may allow third-party apps to fully integrate as default options for these categories.