How to Customize Default Apps on Your Samsung Galaxy Phone
Are you tired of your Samsung Galaxy phone opening files in the wrong apps? Or do you have multiple apps on your phone that do the same thing? If so, it's time to set or change the default apps on your Samsung Galaxy phone. Don't worry, it's a simple process that we'll guide you through.
How to Set Default Apps on Samsung Galaxy Phones
If you haven't already set a default app for tasks like opening links, making phone calls, or playing videos, your Samsung Galaxy phone will usually show you an “Open with” menu. From there, you can quickly set a default app for that specific task.
For example, if you haven't set a default browser to open webpage links on your Samsung Galaxy phone, just tap on any website link, select the browser you want to use, and tap “Always”. One UI will then set the chosen app as the default option for opening links.
How to Change the Default Apps on Samsung Galaxy Phones
If you mistakenly set the wrong app as the default option, don't fret. You can easily change the default apps on your Samsung Galaxy phone by visiting the Settings menu. Here's how:
- Open the Settings app on your phone, scroll down to tap on Apps, and select the “Choose default apps” option.
- In this menu, you will see various options such as Browser app, Digital assistant app, Phone app, and more. If you want to change the default SMS app, for instance, tap the relevant option and select your preferred app from the following menu.
You can repeat these steps to change the default browser, dialer, launcher, or digital assistant on your Samsung Galaxy phone. There are also several tips you can look at if your Samsung app icons goes missing. It's a common accidental issue that can be easily fixed.
How to Clear Default Apps on Samsung Galaxy Phones
While the Settings menu makes it easy to change default apps, you won't find options to change the default app for tasks like opening photos or playing videos. To change the default app for such tasks, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app and tap on Apps.
- Scroll through the list to locate the app that currently handles the action you want to change. For example, if you want to change the default app for opening photos, select the app that is currently set to open photos.
- Tap on “Set as default” and then tap the “Clear” button in the following menu.
- Now, try to open any photo, select your preferred app, and tap “Always”.
By clearing the default preferences for the previous app, you've successfully changed the default app for opening photos.
Reset All Default Apps at Once on Samsung Galaxy Phones
If you want to reset all default apps on your Samsung Galaxy phone in one go, you can reset app preferences. Keep in mind that this will remove any permissions, notifications, and background data restrictions you may have set for your apps. However, it won't erase any of your apps or data. You can also use Samsung maintenance mode to keep your data safe.
Follow these steps to reset all default apps on your Samsung Galaxy phone:
- Open the Settings app and navigate to Apps.
- Tap the three dots (kebab icon) in the top right corner and select “Reset app preferences”.
- Select “Reset” to confirm the action.
Making Your Phone Your Own
When it comes to apps, everyone has their own preferences. While your Samsung Galaxy phone comes with pre-installed apps that can perform various tasks, you can always switch to a third-party app and set it as the default if it offers more features or better suits your needs.
Remember, customizing the default apps on your Samsung Galaxy phone allows you to personalize your device and enhance your user experience. So go ahead, explore the options, and make your phone truly yours!

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”