Switch Your Default Browser from Safari on macOS and iOS

This article provides a straightforward guide on how to change your default web browser away from Safari on both Apple macOS and iOS devices. By adjusting a few options in macOS System Settings or iOS Settings, you can easily set third-party browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge to open all your web links automatically.

Before following the steps below, ensure that you have already downloaded and installed your preferred alternative web browser on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad.

How to Change the Default Browser on macOS

To change your default browser using System Settings on a Mac (macOS Ventura or later), follow these steps:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. In the left-hand sidebar, scroll down and click on Desktop & Dock.
4. In the main window on the right, scroll down until you find the Default web browser option.
5. Click the pop-up menu next to it (which currently displays Safari) and select your preferred web browser from the list.

The change takes effect immediately. Close System Settings when you are finished.

How to Change the Default Browser on iOS

To change your default browser using the Settings app on an iPhone or iPad (iOS 14 or later), follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Scroll down to the alphabetical list of your installed third-party apps.
3. Find and tap on the name of the web browser you want to set as your new default (not Safari).
4. Tap on Default Browser App.
5. Tap the name of your preferred browser to move the blue checkmark away from Safari.

Once selected, any links you tap in emails, messages, or other apps will automatically open in your newly chosen browser.