How to Set Default Browser In iPad And iPhone?

ByJim Miller

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Safari remains one of the most popular mobile browsers, thanks to its status as the iPhone's default browser and its widespread use.

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Many iPhone users are used to tapping links that open directly in Safari. Those who upgraded to iOS 17 can now create multiple Safari profiles, perform easier searches, and enjoy enhanced private browsing.

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If you don't like Safari, you don't have to keep using it. Whether you face problems, prefer another browser, or want to try something new, you can change it.

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Since iOS 14, iPhone users can pick a third-party browser instead of Apple's.

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default browser iphone

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How to Change Your Browser on iPhone?

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First, make sure your iOS is up-to-date to avoid any issues. Then follow these steps:

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  1. Download your preferred browser from the App Store.

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  2. Open the Settings app.

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  3. Find and tap the browser app you just installed.

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  4. Tap “Default Browser App.”

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  5. Choose your preferred browser from the list.

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Once you see a checkmark next to your chosen browser, it will be the default on your iPhone. Any link you click will now open in that browser.

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If the app you downloaded doesn't appear as a Default Browser option, it likely doesn't support this feature.

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For example, the Onion Browser might not appear if you installed a recommended iPhone browser from SlashGear. You can't make it your default but can open it by tapping its icon.

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The steps above should also work for changing the default browser on your iPad.

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How to Change Your Browser on iPhone

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Can You Remove Safari on Your iPhone?

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You cannot entirely delete Safari from your iPhone, as it's a built-in Apple app. If you prefer another browser, Safari won’t affect your experience.

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If you want to hide Safari, press its icon on the home screen, select Remove App, and tap “Remove from Home Screen.” Safari will still appear in the App Library.

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You can block access to Safari using the iPhone's Screen Time feature. Here's how:

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  1. Open the Settings app.

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  2. Go to Screen Time.

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  3. Tap “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”

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  4. Enter your Screen Time passcode.

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  5. Turn on the “Content & Privacy Restrictions” toggle.

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  6. Go to Allowed Apps.

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  7. Turn off the toggle next to Safari.

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These steps will hide Safari from the home screen and App Library, effectively turning off the app.

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As long as Safari is in the “Not Allowed Apps” list, you can't use it. To bring it back, follow the same steps and enable Safari in Allowed Apps.

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Can You Remove Safari on Your iPhone

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How to Switch Back to Safari?

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You can easily undo changing your default browser on the iPhone. To return to Safari, make sure it is visible by turning it on in Screen Time.

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Next, remove the third-party app set as your default. Tap and hold its icon to delete it. Once deleted, Safari will be your default browser. You can also do this:

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  1. Open the Settings app.

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  2. Scroll down to find any installed browser app.

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  3. Tap the app.

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  4. Select Default Browser App.

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  5. Choose “Safari” from the list.

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If you don't see the Default Browser App option, choose another browser from the main Settings page.

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Once Safari has a checkmark, it will be your default browser again.

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