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5 Easy Ways to Change Email Default to Gmail

Ashley January 8, 2025

3 minutes read

5 Easy Ways to Change Email Default to Gmail — Change Email Default To Gmail

Introduction
Changing your default email client to Gmail can streamline your workflow, ensuring seamless access to your Google ecosystem. Whether you’re on a desktop, mobile device, or web browser, setting Gmail as your default email service enhances efficiency and integration with other Google tools like Drive, Calendar, and Meet. Below, we explore five straightforward methods to make Gmail your go-to email platform, tailored to different devices and operating systems.

1. Set Gmail as Default on Android Devices

Android users can easily designate Gmail as their primary email app by following these steps:

Step 1: Open Settings on your Android device. Step 2: Scroll down and tap Apps or Apps & notifications. Step 3: Select Default apps and then Email. Step 4: Choose Gmail from the list of available apps.

Pro Tip: Ensure the Gmail app is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.

2. Change Default Email to Gmail on iOS

iOS users can also set Gmail as their default email app, though Apple’s native Mail app is the default. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad. Step 2: Scroll down and tap Mail. Step 3: Select Default Mail App. Step 4: Choose Gmail from the list.

Note: While Gmail can be set as the default for email links, iOS still uses the Mail app for system-generated emails (e.g., password resets).

3. Make Gmail the Default in Web Browsers

For a seamless web browsing experience, set Gmail as your default email handler:

Step 1: Open your preferred browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.). Step 2: Go to Settings or Preferences. Step 3: Look for Handlers or Default Applications. Step 4: Set Gmail as the default for mailto links.

Insight: In Chrome, this setting is found under Privacy and Security > Site Settings > Additional Permissions > Handlers.

4. Configure Gmail as Default in Windows

Windows users can integrate Gmail with their system for email tasks:

Step 1: Open Settings on your Windows PC. Step 2: Go to Apps > Default apps. Step 3: Scroll down and select Email. Step 4: Choose Gmail (you may need to install the Gmail app or use a browser shortcut).

Tip: For a smoother experience, use the Gmail Progressive Web App (PWA) available in the Microsoft Store.

5. Set Gmail as Default on macOS

Mac users can integrate Gmail with their system for email tasks:

Step 1: Open System Preferences on your Mac. Step 2: Click Mail. Step 3: Select Default Email Reader. Step 4: Choose Gmail (via browser or third-party apps like Spark or Mailplane).

Note: macOS does not natively support Gmail as a default app, so browser-based solutions are recommended.

Conclusion
Setting Gmail as your default email service across devices and platforms ensures consistency and efficiency in your digital communication. Whether you’re on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, or a web browser, these methods simplify the process. By leveraging Gmail’s integration with Google’s ecosystem, you can enhance productivity and streamline your workflow.

Can I set Gmail as default on all browsers?

Yes, most modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge allow you to set Gmail as the default handler for mailto links.

Why can’t I set Gmail as default on iOS completely?

Apple restricts third-party apps from fully replacing the native Mail app for system-generated emails.

Is the Gmail PWA better than using Gmail in a browser?

The Gmail PWA offers a more app-like experience with offline access and desktop notifications.

Can I revert to the previous default email app?

Yes, simply follow the same steps and select the previous app from the list of defaults.

Ashley Today

61 3 minutes read

5 Easy Ways to Change Email Default to Gmail