Changing the default map app on your Android device can greatly improve your navigation experience. Whether you use Google Maps, Waze, or another map app, having it as your default option means that whenever you click on a map link or ask your device for directions, it will automatically launch your preferred app. This can save you time and hassle, as you won’t need to manually select your preferred app each time. In this blog post, we will explore the challenge of changing the default map app on Android and provide you with several methods to achieve this.
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The Challenge of Changing the Default Map App on Android
By default, Android devices come with Google Maps as the pre-installed map app. While Google Maps is a popular choice among users, some may prefer other map apps such as Waze, HERE WeGo, or MapQuest. Unfortunately, changing the default map app is not as straightforward as changing other default apps on Android.
Android doesn’t provide a native setting to change the default map app, so users have to go through some additional steps to accomplish this. It might seem like a daunting task for some, but with the right guidance, anyone can successfully change their default map app on Android. In the following sections, we will outline the necessary preparations and provide step-by-step instructions for different methods to help you achieve this.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we delve into the methods, let’s go through a few things you should prepare for in order to successfully change your default map app on Android.
1. Make sure you have your desired map app installed on your Android device. You can easily find and install popular map apps such as Waze, HERE WeGo, or MapQuest from the Google Play Store.
2. Ensure that your Android device is updated to the latest software version. Sometimes, changing default app settings may require specific Android system updates, so it’s always a good idea to keep your device up to date.
3. Familiarize yourself with the settings and options of your chosen map app. While changing the default map app doesn’t require extensive knowledge of the app, it’s helpful to know how to navigate its settings to customize your experience.
Method 1: Changing the Default Map App via App Settings
To change the default map app on your Android device using the app settings, follow these steps:
1. Open the "Settings" app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and select "Apps" or "Applications" depending on your device.
3. Look for the default map app that you want to change. In this case, we’ll use Google Maps as an example.
4. Tap on the default map app (e.g., Google Maps) to open its settings.
5. Scroll down and select "Open by default" or "Default apps" option.
6. Tap on "Open supported links."
7. Choose the option "Ask every time" or select your desired map app from the list to set it as the default.
8. Now, whenever you click on a map link or ask your device for directions, it will prompt you to choose your preferred map app.
| Pros | 1. Easy to access app settings | 2. No additional apps or tools required | 3. Provides flexibility to choose between multiple default map apps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Requires manual selection each time | 2. Default map app settings may vary across Android devices | 3. Limited customization options |
Method 2: Changing the Default Map App via Default Apps Settings
Another method to change the default map app on your Android device is by using the "Default apps" settings. Here are the steps:
1. Open the "Settings" app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and select "Apps" or "Applications" depending on your device.
3. Look for the default map app that you want to change.
4. Tap on the default map app (e.g., Google Maps) to open its settings.
5. Scroll down and select "Open by default" or "Default apps" option.
6. Tap on "Clear defaults" or "Set as default" (if available).
7. Now, when you click on a map link or ask your device for directions, it will prompt you to choose your preferred map app.
| Pros | 1. Works on most Android devices | 2. No need to change individual app settings | 3. Provides flexibility to choose between multiple default map apps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Requires manual selection each time | 2. Default app settings may vary across Android devices | 3. Limited customization options |
Method 3: Changing the Default Map App via Third-Party Apps
For users who prefer a more streamlined approach, there are third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that can help change the default map app. One such app is "Better Open With." Here’s how you can use this app to change the default map app:
1. Install the "Better Open With" app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and grant the necessary permissions.
3. Scroll through the list of supported apps and search for your desired map app.
4. Tap on your preferred map app to select it.
5. The "Better Open With" app will ask you to set it as the default mapping app. Confirm your choice.
6. Now, whenever you click on a map link or ask your device for directions, it will automatically open your preferred map app.
| Pros | 1. Streamlined process | 2. Works with a wide variety of map apps | 3. Can set a default based on specific criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Requires an additional app | 2. May have compatibility issues with certain devices | 3. Limited customization options |
Method 4: Changing the Default Map App via Custom ROMs
If you have installed a custom ROM on your Android device, you may have additional options to change the default map app. Custom ROMs often provide more extensive customization features, which can include changing default app settings. Here’s a general guide on how to change the default map app using a custom ROM:
1. Install a custom ROM on your Android device. This process varies depending on the device model and the specific custom ROM you choose. Make sure to follow the installation instructions provided by the custom ROM developer.
2. Once you have successfully installed the custom ROM, navigate to the ROM settings on your device.
3. Look for the "App settings" or "Default apps" section in the ROM settings.
4. Tap on the default map app setting and choose your preferred map app from the list.
5. Save the changes and exit the ROM settings.
6. Your chosen map app should now be set as the default, and it will automatically launch whenever you click on a map link or ask for directions.
| Pros | 1. Extensive customization options | 2. Can change default app settings system-wide | 3. Offers more control over the device’s default behavior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Requires technical knowledge and expertise | 2. Custom ROM installation may void device warranty | 3. Not suitable for inexperienced users |
Why Can’t I Change the Default Map App?
There are a few reasons why you might be unable to change the default map app on your Android device. Here are three common issues and their respective fixes:
1. Issue: The desired map app is not installed on your device.
Fix: Install the desired map app from the Google Play Store before attempting to change the default app settings.
2. Issue: Your Android device is running an outdated software version.
Fix: Update your Android device to the latest software version available. This can often resolve compatibility issues and allow you to change default app settings.
3. Issue: Your Android device has restricted default app settings.
Fix: Some Android devices, particularly those running custom skinned versions of Android (e.g., Samsung’s One UI), may have restricted default app settings. In such cases, consider using third-party apps or custom ROMs to change the default map app.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience when changing the default map app on your Android device:
1. Explore the settings of your chosen map app to customize its features according to your preferences. You might find useful options like voice navigation settings, map display options, and offline maps.
2. Regularly update your map app to access the latest features and improvements. Updates can also improve the performance and reliability of the app.
3. Consider adjusting the location and permissions settings of your map app to ensure accurate and efficient navigation.
5 FAQs about Changing the Default Map App on Android
Q1: Can I change the default map app on all Android devices?
A: While changing the default map app is possible on most Android devices, some custom skinned versions of Android may have restricted default app settings. In such cases, alternative methods like third-party apps or custom ROMs may be required.
Q2: Will changing the default map app affect other apps that use maps?
A: No, changing the default map app will only affect apps that rely on the default mapping application. Other map-centric apps will continue to function with their respective predefined map providers.
Q3: Is it necessary to uninstall the default map app before changing the default app settings?
A: No, it is not necessary to uninstall the default map app before changing the default app settings. You can simply select your preferred map app as the new default.
Q4: Can I have multiple default map apps set on my device?
A: Android does not natively support multiple default map apps. However, you can use the "Ask every time" option in the app settings to select your preferred map app each time you click on a map link or ask for directions.
Q5: Do I need a rooted device to change the default map app using custom ROMs?
A: No, you do not necessarily need to root your Android device to change the default map app using custom ROMs. However, installing a custom ROM often requires an unlocked bootloader, which may void the device warranty.
In Conclusion
Changing the default map app on your Android device can significantly enhance your navigation experience. While it may seem like a challenging task at first, the methods outlined in this blog post provide options for users with varying levels of technical expertise. Whether you choose to change the default map app via app settings, default apps settings, third-party apps, or custom ROMs, following the steps and tips provided will help you achieve a seamless transition. Enjoy exploring different map apps and finding the one that suits your navigation needs the best!