Apple Adds a Menu in iOS 18.2 to Change Default Apps, Including Messages and Calls

Apple has introduced a significant change in its latest iOS update, iOS 18.2, giving users more control over their default apps for various functions, including messaging and calling. Previously, Apple only allowed users to change their default email and browser apps. Still, with this new update, the tech giant has expanded the options to include messaging, calling, and more.

This move is part of Apple’s continuous efforts to provide more flexibility and customization options for iPhone users. The update is currently available as a developer beta, allowing app developers to test the new features before a broader public release. This new menu will offer users more freedom in choosing which apps handle essential tasks, improving their overall experience with iOS devices.

The New Default Apps Menu

In previous versions of iOS, Apple limited the ability to switch default apps. Users could only change the default browser and email apps, and these options were hidden within the Safari and Mail menus in the settings. However, iOS 18.2 has taken things a step further by introducing a dedicated “Default Apps” menu within the settings, making it much easier to manage these preferences.

To access this new menu, users can go to the Settings app and navigate to the “Apps” section. From there, they can tap on “Default Apps,” which will show a list of available apps that can be set as defaults for tasks such as messaging, calling, and browsing. This change means users can now choose their favourite messaging or calling app instead of being locked into using Apple’s native apps, such as iMessage or the Phone app.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access and use the new default apps menu:

1. Go to Settings: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Navigate to Apps: Scroll down to find the new “Apps” section.
3. Select Default Apps: In the Apps menu, tap “Default Apps.”
4. Choose New Defaults: You will see options to change default apps for email, messaging, calling, web browsing, and more. Select your preferred app for each task.

This new menu is designed to be user-friendly, offering an easy way to switch between apps without digging through several menus or settings options.

More Choices for Communication Apps

The ability to change default messaging and calling apps is one of the most anticipated features in iOS 18.2. In the past, iPhone users were limited to using Apple’s built-in iMessage and Phone apps for sending texts and making calls. While these apps are deeply integrated into the iOS system, not everyone prefers to use them.

With the new update, users can set their preferred messaging app as their default, whether it’s WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, or another popular messaging platform. When users click a phone number or messaging link, the iPhone automatically opens the selected third-party app instead of defaulting to iMessage or Phone.

For calling, users can choose apps like Skype, Google Voice, or any other VoIP service as their default app for making calls. This added flexibility allows users to personalize their devices according to their needs, especially those relying heavily on third-party apps for communication.

Expanded App Integration

In addition to messaging and calling, iOS 18.2 allows users to change the default apps for several other tasks. For instance, users can now set their preferred app for contactless payments. While Apple Pay remains the default for most iPhone users, those who prefer using another mobile payment platform can now make the switch more easily.

Password managers and keyboard apps also get a spot in the new default apps menu. Users can choose their preferred password management app for autofill, making it easier to log into websites and apps without relying solely on Apple’s Keychain. Likewise, users who favour third-party keyboards like Gboard or SwiftKey can now set these as the default without switching manually each time they want to use them.

The “Default Apps” menu also provides better visibility into which apps are sets to handle specific functions, ensuring that users are always aware of their choices. Whether it’s typing a message, making a payment, or filling in a password, iOS 18.2 is design to make the user experience more customizable than ever before.

Why This Update Matters

Apple’s decision to expand the options for default apps marks a shift in its approach to giving users more control over their devices. IPhone users have had limited customization options for years compared to Android users, who have long been able to set default apps for various functions. With iOS 18.2, Apple is taking a significant step toward closing that gap.

By allowing users to choose their preferred messaging and calling apps, Apple gives them more freedom to use the apps that best suit their needs. This is particularly important for users who prefer third-party apps for privacy, security, or usability reasons. For instance, messaging apps like Signal and Telegram offer end-to-end encryption and additional privacy features that some users find more appealing than Apple’s built-in iMessage.

Moreover, this update is expect to encourage app developers to continue improving their apps, knowing that users can now choose them as default options on iOS devices. As competition among app developers heats up, users will likely benefit from better app experiences and more innovative features in the future.

How Developers Are Reacting

The developer community has responded positively to the new features introduced in iOS 18.2, particularly the expanded default app options. Many developers have been requesting more flexibility in how their apps integrate with iOS, and this update provides just that.

By allowing users to set their apps as defaults for messaging, calling, and other tasks, Apple gives developers a new way to engage with users. Apps set as default options will likely increase usage as they become the go-to apps for specific tasks. This could lead to a surge in downloads for certain apps, especially those offering unique features or better performance than Apple’s native apps.

However, developers must ensure that their apps are optimize for the default app functionality in iOS 18.2. This includes ensuring seamless integration with the iPhone’s interface and delivering a smooth user experience when handling tasks like messaging or calling. As more users explore these new options, developers will need to stay competitive by offering reliable and feature-rich apps that can stand up to Apple’s native options.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for iOS?

Introducing the new default apps menu in iOS 18.2 is part of a broader trend toward giving users more control over their devices. As Apple continues to develop new features for iOS, we can expect even more customization options in the future.

Some industry experts speculate that Apple may eventually allow users to change default apps for other key functions, such as music streaming, video playback, or file management. While there has yet to be an official word from Apple on these possibilities, the expansion of default app options in iOS 18.2 suggests that the company is open to giving users more choices.

For now, iPhone users can enjoy the added flexibility of iOS 18.2, knowing they have more control over the apps they use for essential tasks. Whether you prefer using Apple’s native apps or third-party alternatives, the new default apps menu is a welcome addition to iOS that promises to enhance the overall user experience.