# iOS 18.2: An In-Depth Look at New Features and Default Application Settings
Apple has launched iOS 18.2, a substantial update that brings a wide array of new features, including improved Apple Intelligence functions, a complete redesign of the Mail app, and the option to designate new default applications on your iPhone. This article explores the essential updates and how users can utilize the expanded default app settings.
## Enhanced Default App Categories and New Settings Interface
Traditionally, iPhone users faced limitations in choosing default applications. With the advent of iOS 14, users were permitted to modify their default email and web browser apps, but choices remained limited. iOS 18.2 alters this landscape by broadening the array of default apps and unifying the settings into a single, intuitive interface.
Upon updating to iOS 18.2, users can access the **Settings** app and then select **Apps**, where a new section titled **Default Apps** awaits. This updated interface enables users to manage their default applications across eight distinct categories, making it simpler than ever to personalize their iPhone experience.
## Modifying Your Default Apps: Implications
Altering your default apps influences how your iPhone interacts with different functionalities. As stated by Apple, this capability empowers users to decide which apps their iPhone automatically employs for actions like sending emails, browsing the web, and beyond.
For instance, when you click on a link to an email, phone number, or standard URL, the default app you’ve chosen will activate. Historically, Apple’s own apps, such as Mail, Messages, Safari, and Wallet, have been the defaults, but iOS 18.2 permits users to opt for alternatives.
### Default App Categories Available
The following categories can be specified for default apps in iOS 18.2:
1. **Email**: The app utilized for drafting new emails.
2. **Messaging**: The app used for sending new messages.
3. **Calling**: The app selected for making phone calls.
4. **Call Filtering**: The app designated for call filtering and identification.
5. **Browser App**: The app employed to open links and navigate the web.
6. **Passwords & Codes**: Apps designated for AutoFill and verification codes.
7. **Contactless App**: The app activated when engaging with NFC contactless readers.
8. **Keyboards**: The keyboards accessible from the keyboard switcher.
It’s essential to acknowledge that the options presented may differ depending on your region and Apple’s international policies. For example, users in the U.S. will encounter the eight categories mentioned, while EU users might see additional choices.
If a user lacks third-party applications installed in a particular category, only Apple’s applications will display. However, installing alternatives through the App Store will make them accessible in the Default Apps section.
### Newly Added Categories in iOS 18.2
While some of these categories appeared in earlier iOS versions, they were frequently dispersed among various settings menus, complicating their retrieval. iOS 18.2 unveils three completely new categories: **Messaging**, **Calling**, and **Contactless App**, further improving user customization.
## Conclusion
iOS 18.2 represents a meaningful advancement in user personalization, particularly with the broadened options for default apps. This update not only simplifies the process of designating default applications but also enriches the overall user experience by enabling greater customization.
Have you taken a look at the new default app settings in iOS 18.2? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
