If you’re tired of using the same web browser on your Android device or found a new favorite, learning how to change the default web browser on Android can make your browsing experience more enjoyable. This guide will walk you through several methods to easily switch your default browser without any hassle.
Prerequisites to change the default web browser on Android
Before diving into the methods, make sure you have the following ready:
- Ensure your Android device is up to date: Keeping your device updated ensures compatibility with the latest apps and features.
- Have the new browser installed on your device: Download and install your preferred web browser from the Google Play Store.
Method 1: Changing the default browser on Android via Settings app
You can easily change the default web browser on Android to your preferred choice by following the steps below:
1. Navigate to the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on Apps or Applications, depending on your device.
3. Find and tap on Default apps.
Note: This might be under a sub-menu like Advanced or App Management.
4. Tap the Browser app and choose your new browser from the list.
Also read: How to get Generative AI Wallpapers feature on any Android device.
Method 2: Using the new browser to change the default browser on Android
Some browsers provide an option to set themselves as the default browser during the initial setup. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Launch the new browser you have installed.
2. Many browsers will prompt you to set them as the default browser upon first launch. Follow the prompts.
3. Confirm your choice when asked to set this browser as your default.
If you missed the initial setup prompt, you could usually find the option in the browser’s settings under Set as default browser.
Also read: How to mirror your Android device to your TV.
Method 3: Clearing default browser settings
If your device doesn’t give you the option to change the default browser, you might need to clear the existing default settings:
1. Go to the Settings menu on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on Apps or Applications.
3. Locate and tap on the current default browser (e.g., Chrome).
4. Tap on Open by default or Set as default and then press Clear defaults.
5. When you open a link, your device prompts you to select a browser. Choose your new browser and select Always to set it as the default.
This method ensures that you can change the default web browser on Android even if the settings are hidden.
Also read: How to turn off read receipts on Android in Google Messages.
Method 4: Using third-party apps to change the default web browser on Android
Some third-party apps can help manage default apps on your device. These apps provide a user-friendly interface to manage your default settings, making changing the default web browser on Android easier. Here are two of the apps I recommend:
1. Default App Manager
1. Open the Google Play Store on your device.
2. Search for the Default App Manager and install the app.
3. Launch the Default App Manager app from your app drawer once installed.
4. Inside the app, you will see different categories of default apps. Tap on the Browser section to manage the default browser settings.
5. Now, you will see a list of all installed browsers on your device. Tap on your preferred new browser to set it as the default.
6. A confirmation message might pop up asking if you want to set the selected browser as default. Confirm your choice to complete the process.
2. SetEdit (Settings Database Editor)
1. Head to the Google Play Store on your device and search for SetEdit or Settings Database Editor.
2. Launch the SetEdit app from your app drawer when installed.
3. Scroll through the list of settings and look for entries related to default apps. You are specifically looking for entries like preferred_browser_package_name or similar.
4. Tap on the entry related to the default browser. Now, select the pencil icon to edit the entry.
5. Replace the current default browser package name with the package name of your new preferred browser.
Note: You can find the package name online or check the browser’s Play Store URL.
6. After editing the entry, save your changes. Exit the app, and your new browser should now be set to the default.
Also read: How to get and use Meta AI on Instagram and WhatsApp.
Default browser changed!
Switching your default browser can enhance your browsing experience and align it more with your personal preferences. By following any of the methods above, you can easily change the default web browser on Android and enjoy a smoother, more tailored web browsing experience.
FAQs
The Default apps option might be under a different submenu, such as Advanced or App Management. If it’s still not visible, ensure your device is up to date, as older versions of Android might have different menu structures.
No, changing your default browser will not delete your bookmarks or saved data from your old browser. However, you might need to import bookmarks to your new browser.
Ensure the browser is properly installed. If it still doesn’t appear, try restarting your device or reinstalling the browser.
To change the default browser, follow the same steps, but select your original browser instead of the new one.
No, you can only set one default browser at a time. However, you can have multiple browsers installed and use them as needed.
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Chhavi Tomar is a dynamic person who works as an Editor for The Writing Paradigm. She studied B.Sc. Physics and is currently doing a B.Ed. She has more than three years of experience in editing, gained through freelance projects. Chhavi is skilled in technology editing and is actively improving her abilities in this field. Her dedication to accuracy and natural talent for technology make her valuable in the changing world of digital content.
