Apple will soon let every iPhone user change the default apps on the iOS smartphone. With the iOS 18.2 update, Apple is unlocking the ability to set new default apps for all iPhone users.
iOS 18.2 to bring new dedicated hub for all iPhone users
Apple has been pressured by the European Union regulators to open its heavily walled garden. The company made the biggest change to the iPhone ecosystem by ditching its proprietary lightning port for USB-C. The iPhone maker will even allow iPhone users to change the default apps.
Interestingly, it was a common understanding that Apple would allow iPhone users in the EU to change default apps on their devices. However, according to 9to5Mac, Apple is offering this freedom to every iPhone that is eligible to receive the iOS 18 update.
Specifically speaking, Apple has released the first developer beta for iOS 18.2. It has several features for iPhone users. The highlight of the iOS 18.2 update is undoubtedly Apple Intelligence. However, the update also brings with it a better and more capable “hub” in Settings.
“These releases also include improvements to the Apps area in Settings first introduced in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. All users worldwide will be able to manage their default apps via a Default Apps section at the top of the Apps area. New calling and messaging defaults are also now available for all users worldwide.”
As stated clearly, Apple will allow all iPhone users to change the default apps on their smartphones, irrespective of the region. In other words, any iPhone user around the world could make these changes, which were once considered impossible.
How to change default apps on an iPhone?
Apple is being cautious with the iOS 18.2 update. As it introduces Apple Intelligence, the company is restricting the iOS 18.2 beta to Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhones only. Consequentially, the new hub in the Settings app isn’t available to older Apple iPhones. However, based on Apple’s statement, this should change soon.
The iOS 18.2 beta 1 rolling out to iPhones in the US includes a new Default Apps section. Needless to say, Apple could still pick and choose which default apps users can change at a later date. However, the hub currently allows iPhone users to change default apps for the following categories: Email, Messaging, Calling, Call Filtering, Browser App, Passwords & Codes, Keyboards.
It is surprising to see Apple is allowing iPhone users around the world to change the default apps for Calls and Messaging in iOS. Moreover, Apple seems to have made it extremely easy to switch apps in one dedicated hub, instead of forcing iPhone users into a complex web of settings and permissions.
