Apple finally lets users change default browser from Safari to Chrome - here's how to do it

The change comes with iOS 14, which is also introducing widgets and new privacy features

(Adam Smith/The Independent)

Apple has finally made an oft-demanded change to its iPhone operating system: letting users change the default browser.

In iOS 14 and iPadOS 14, the smartphone giant enabled third-party (those not made by Apple) browsers and email clients to become the default app on users’ phones.

This means iPhone and iPad owners who no longer want to automatically use Safari or Mail when opening links or emails in other apps can finally switch to Google Chrome or Firefox for internet browsing, and Outlook or Gmail for emails.

However, currently Google Chrome is the only third-party Web browser that is supported as a new default.

It is expected that other browsers and apps will be updated when iOS 14 is closer to release.

In order to make the change, users will need to download the latest version of Google Chrome from Apple’s App Store.

After that, they will need to navigate to the Settings app, select Chrome, tap the “Default Browser App” button and change its setting from Safari to Chrome.

Apple’s iOS 14 software is expected to be announced later this month.

Other features of iOS 14 include the addition of an “App Library” so users do not have to have all their apps on the home page.

It also includes new widgets, a picture-in-picture mode for watching video, and privacy changes. 

Apple will stream a special event called “Time Flies” on 15 September, where it is expected to showcase new iPads and Apple Watches. 

The iPhone 12, however, is unlikely to be featured. 

Rumours suggest l that this is because of disruptions to the production of the new smartphone due to global lockdowns.

It is likely that the iPhone 12 will instead be announced in October.