How to Reset Default Apps on Your Device in Simple Steps

Default apps are the applications your device uses automatically to open certain types of files or perform specific tasks. At times, you might want to change these settings back to their original state. Whether you’ve changed your default browser, email app, or media player and want to revert those choices, resetting default apps can help you streamline your device experience.

What Are Default Apps?

Default apps are pre-set applications that your operating system uses by default for specific actions like opening links, playing videos, or sending emails. For example, when you click a web link, the default browser opens it automatically without asking which app you’d prefer. Changing these defaults allows customization but sometimes leads to confusion if multiple apps compete for the same role.

Why Would You Need to Reset Default Apps?

Sometimes changing default apps can cause unexpected behavior or conflicts between applications. Maybe an app isn’t functioning as expected or you simply want to restore the original setup after experimenting with different options. Resetting defaults helps clear any customized preferences and returns control back to the operating system’s recommended settings.

How To Reset Default Apps on Android Devices

To reset default apps on most Android devices: go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > Default apps. Here you can select different categories like browser app, phone app, SMS app and choose your preferred application again. If you want a complete reset of all defaults at once: Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps > Tap the three-dot menu (top right) > Reset app preferences. Confirming this will reset all disabled apps and clear all defaults without deleting any data.

How To Reset Default Apps on Windows PC

On Windows PCs: open Settings and navigate to Apps > Default apps. Scroll through file types or link types such as .html or http and select which program should open them by default again. Alternatively, scroll down and click ‘Reset’ under ‘Reset to Microsoft recommended defaults’ for an overall reset of all file associations back to Microsoft’s choices.

Tips After Resetting Defaults

After resetting your default apps, it’s a good idea to review which applications have been set as defaults so they match your preferences. You may also want to update those apps if prompted for better performance and security features. Regularly managing default app settings ensures smoother usage of your device tailored exactly how you like it.

Resetting default apps is a straightforward process that can help resolve issues or simply return your device’s behavior back to its original form. By following these simple steps across different platforms like Android and Windows, you gain better control over how files open and how tasks get done efficiently.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.