How To Change The Default Browser On Iphone Without Jailbreaking

For years, Apple restricted users from changing the default web browser on iPhone, locking them into Safari regardless of their preferences. That changed with the release of iOS 14 in 2020. Now, users can set alternative browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge as their default—no jailbreak required. This flexibility empowers users to tailor their browsing experience to their needs, whether it's syncing across devices, accessing unique privacy features, or simply enjoying a different interface.

Despite this advancement, many iPhone owners remain unaware of how to make the switch or assume that complex workarounds are necessary. The truth is, changing your default browser is straightforward—if you know where to look. This guide walks through every step clearly, explains which browsers support the feature, and highlights common pitfalls to avoid.

Why Change Your Default Browser?

The default browser handles all web links opened from other apps—emails, messages, social media, and more. If you're used to Chrome’s password sync or Brave’s tracker blocking, being redirected to Safari breaks continuity and diminishes convenience. Setting a preferred browser as default ensures seamless integration across your digital life.

Beyond personal preference, some users prioritize privacy-focused browsers like DuckDuckGo or Firefox Focus, which actively block trackers and prevent data collection. Others rely on cross-platform syncing offered by Chrome or Edge, especially if they use Android devices or Windows PCs regularly. Making one of these your default browser streamlines workflows and enhances security.

“Default browser choice gives users real agency over their online experience. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about control.” — Dr. Lisa Tran, Digital Privacy Researcher at Stanford Cyber Initiative

Supported Browsers for Default Use

Not every third-party browser available on the App Store supports becoming the default. Only those that use Apple’s WebKit engine (a requirement for all iOS browsers) and implement the proper API calls can offer this functionality. As of iOS 17 and iOS 18 beta releases, the following browsers allow you to set them as default:

Browser	Default Option Available?	Key Features
Google Chrome	Yes	Syncs with Google account, voice search, incognito mode
Mozilla Firefox	Yes	Strong privacy protections, cross-device sync, tracker blocking
Microsoft Edge	Yes	Integration with Microsoft 365, vertical tabs, Collections feature
Brave	Yes	Ad-blocking, privacy-first design, optional crypto rewards
DuckDuckGo	Yes	No tracking, automatic encryption upgrade, clean interface
Safari	Pre-installed (default)	Tight integration with iCloud, energy efficiency, Reader Mode
Opera Touch / Opera GX	Limited support	Fast data savings, ad blocker, news feed
Other niche browsers	No	May lack full configuration options or updates

If a browser doesn’t appear in your Settings under default app options, it likely hasn’t implemented the necessary code—or may have been outdated. Always ensure your chosen browser is updated via the App Store.

Tip: After installing a new browser, open it at least once before heading to Settings. This initializes its capabilities and makes it eligible for default assignment.

Step-by-Step: How to Change the Default Browser

Changing your default browser takes only a few minutes. Follow this sequence carefully to ensure success.

1. Install Your Preferred Browser
   Open the App Store and download the browser you’d like to use—Chrome, Firefox, Brave, etc. Tap “Get” and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
2. Launch the Browser Once
   Open the newly installed app and go through any initial setup prompts. You don’t need to sign in, but launching the app registers it with iOS.
3. Open the Settings App
   Return to your home screen and tap the gray gear icon labeled “Settings.”
4. Scroll to Find the Browser App
   In the Settings menu, scroll down until you see the name of the browser you installed (e.g., “Chrome,” “Firefox”). It will be listed alphabetically among other apps.
5. Select the Browser Entry
   Tap on the browser’s name to enter its specific settings page.
6. Set as Default Browser
   Look for the option labeled “Default Browser App.” Tap it, then select the browser from the list provided. A checkmark will appear next to your selection.
7. Test the Change
   Open an email or message containing a web link. Tap the link. If configured correctly, it should now open in your selected browser instead of Safari.

This process works identically across all iPhones running iOS 14 or later, including iPhone SE (all models), iPhone 8 and newer, and all iPhone Pro variants.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even when following the steps precisely, some users encounter hiccups. Here are frequent problems and how to resolve them:

• “Default Browser App” option missing: Ensure the browser is updated. Older versions may not include the required framework. Update via the App Store and restart the device if needed.
• Links still open in Safari: Double-check that you tapped the correct option in Settings. Also, verify that no conflicting shortcuts or automation scripts are redirecting links.
• Browser crashes when opening links: Clear the app cache or reinstall the browser. Third-party bugs occasionally interfere with deep linking.
• Option grayed out: Restart your iPhone. Sometimes iOS fails to register new apps immediately after installation.

“I spent weeks frustrated because Chrome wouldn’t take over from Safari. Turns out I never actually opened the app after downloading it. Once I did, the setting appeared instantly.” — Mark T., San Diego

Mini Case Study: Transitioning from Safari to Firefox for Enhanced Privacy

Sarah, a freelance writer based in Portland, relied on Safari for years but grew concerned about targeted ads following her across sites. She read about Firefox’s enhanced tracking protection and decided to switch. After installing Firefox from the App Store and completing the setup, she navigated to Settings > Firefox > Default Browser App and selected Firefox.

Within days, she noticed fewer retargeted ads and appreciated Firefox’s simplified private browsing mode. More importantly, her bookmarks and reading lists synced automatically between her iPhone and MacBook without requiring additional logins. By making the change official through iOS settings, every link she clicked—from newsletters to Twitter—opened directly in Firefox, reinforcing her new routine.

The transition improved both her productivity and peace of mind. “It felt like regaining control,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much Safari was sharing until I saw the difference.”

Checklist: Successfully Changing Your Default Browser

Use this checklist to ensure a smooth transition:

• ✅ Confirm your iPhone runs iOS 14 or later (Settings > General > About > Software Version)
• ✅ Choose a supported browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, DuckDuckGo)
• ✅ Download and install the browser from the App Store
• ✅ Open the browser at least once
• ✅ Go to Settings > [Browser Name] > Default Browser App
• ✅ Select the browser as default
• ✅ Test by tapping a web link in Messages or Mail
• ✅ Revert anytime by returning to the same menu and selecting Safari

Tip: You can switch back to Safari or try another browser anytime. There’s no limit to how often you change your default.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the default browser without updating iOS?

No. The ability to change the default browser was introduced in iOS 14. If your device cannot upgrade beyond iOS 13 (such as iPhone 6s or earlier), this feature isn't available. Consider upgrading your hardware for access to modern features.

Does changing the default browser affect battery life?

Potentially. Safari is optimized for energy efficiency on iOS. Browsers like Chrome or Edge may consume more power due to background syncing and active tab management. Monitor usage in Settings > Battery to assess impact.

Will my passwords transfer automatically?

Only if you sign into your account within the new browser. Safari passwords stored in iCloud Keychain won’t auto-populate in third-party browsers unless you manually export or sync via a password manager like 1Password or Bitwarden.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Changing your default browser on iPhone is a simple yet powerful way to personalize your digital environment. Whether driven by privacy concerns, workflow optimization, or sheer preference, the freedom to choose enhances user autonomy in a space long dominated by single-app defaults.

Apple’s decision to allow this change reflects growing pressure for platform openness and competition. While the company still mandates WebKit usage (preventing Chromium-based engines from running natively), enabling default app switching marks meaningful progress.

As you explore alternatives, remember that consistency matters. Stick with your new browser for a few days to fully evaluate its strengths. Give it time to sync data, learn your habits, and integrate into your daily flow. Jumping back too quickly may overlook long-term benefits.

🚀 Take control today: Pick a browser that aligns with your values—privacy, speed, or simplicity—and set it as your default. Your iPhone, your rules.