Make Firefox Your Default Custom Tab Provider on Android

This article provides a complete guide on configuring the Firefox browser on your Android device to act as the system-wide default Custom Tab provider. By following the steps outlined below, you will ensure that web links opened inside third-party mobile apps load directly within those apps using Firefox’s fast, privacy-focused engine and extensions, rather than defaulting to Chrome or the basic Android System WebView.

How Custom Tabs Work on Android

Android does not have a separate, standalone toggle exclusively for Custom Tabs. Instead, the Android operating system automatically assigns the role of the system-wide Custom Tab provider to whichever application is set as your default web browser, provided that browser supports the Custom Tabs API. Because Firefox fully supports this feature, making it your default browser automatically makes it your default Custom Tab provider.

Method 1: Configure via the Firefox App

The fastest way to make Firefox your Custom Tab provider is through the browser's built-in settings menu.

  1. Open the Firefox app on your Android device.
  2. Tap the three-dot menu icon located in the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen (depending on your toolbar layout).
  3. Select Settings from the menu.
  4. Scroll down to the General section and tap the toggle next to Set as default browser.
  5. An Android system prompt will appear on your screen. Select Firefox from the list of browsers.
  6. Tap Set as default to confirm your choice.

Method 2: Configure via Android System Settings

If the in-app prompt does not work on your specific device manufacturer's Android skin, you can manually assign the role through your phone's main settings.

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Navigate to Apps (or Apps & notifications, depending on your Android version).
  3. Tap on Default apps (you may need to tap Advanced first to see this option).
  4. Select Browser app.
  5. Tap the radio button next to Firefox to set it as the system default.

Adjusting Third-Party App Settings

Once Firefox is set as your default browser, most third-party apps will immediately begin using Firefox Custom Tabs. However, some apps bypass the system Custom Tab provider in favor of their own built-in WebView, or they force links to open in the full standalone browser app.

To ensure an app uses Firefox Custom Tabs, check the internal settings of your frequently used apps (such as Gmail, Reddit, or Telegram):

  1. Open the third-party app and go to its Settings.
  2. Look for options labeled Open web pages in app, Use in-app browser, or Use Custom Tabs.
  3. Enable this setting. When enabled, the app will call upon the system's Custom Tab provider—which is now Firefox—allowing the page to load seamlessly over the app you are currently using.

Verifying the Configuration

To confirm that Firefox is successfully acting as your Custom Tab provider, tap a web link inside a supported third-party app. Instead of switching apps completely, a simplified browser window will slide up over the current app. You can verify it is powered by Firefox by tapping the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the Custom Tab; you will see a notice at the bottom of the menu stating Powered by Firefox, along with access to your active Firefox add-ons.