Mac OS X: How to change the default web browser or email application

Note: If you are accustomed to using Internet preferences in earlier versions of Mac OS X, note that Internet preferences is not included with Mac OS X 10.3 or later. In Mac OS X 10.3 or later, use Mail and Safari to change your default applications.

Choosing an email application other than Mail

1. Open Mail (/Applications/Mail).
2. From the Mail menu, choose Preferences.
3. Click the General button.
4. Choose your desired default email application from the Default Email Reader pop-up menu.

Note: You may need to set up the email application with your email account information. This information is not automatically exported from Mail.

Choosing a default Web browser other than Safari

1. Open Safari (/Applications).
2. From the Safari menu, choose Preferences.
3. Click the General button.
4. Choose a different browser from the Default Web Browser pop-up menu.

Safari and Mail shouldn't be deleted

After changing your default application, you should not delete Safari or Mail, even if you do not plan to use them. You will need them if you wish to change your default settings in the future.