November 21, 2024
How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Posted February 21, 2017 at 4:59pm by iClarified
These are instructions on how to set the default application that is used to open a file type in macOS.

Step One
Locate a file of the type you'd like to change the default application for in Finder. Select the file and press Command+I on the keyboard or right click (hold down Control and click) and select Get Info from the contextual menu that appears.
How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS


Step Two
Expand the Open With section in the Info window.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Step Three
Click the dropdown to select from a list of suggested applications. If the application you'd like to use is not listed choose Other.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Step Four
Change the Enable dropdown box to All Applications and select your application of choice.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Step Five
Check the Always Open With box then click the Add button.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Six
Click the Change All... button to use the selected application to open all files of this format.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Step Seven
Click Continue to confirm the change.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS

Step Eight
All files of the format you selected will now default to opening with the application you've set.

How to Change the Default Application for a File Type in MacOS
Add Comment
Would you like to be notified when someone replies or adds a new comment?
Yes (All Threads)
Yes (This Thread Only)
No
iClarified Icon
Notifications
Would you like to be notified when we post a new Apple news article or tutorial?
Yes
No
Comments
You must login or register to add a comment...
Recent. Read the latest Apple News.
RECENT
Tutorials. Help is here.
TUTORIALS
Where to Download macOS Ventura
Where to Download macOS Sequoia
AppleTV Firmware Download Locations
Where To Download iPad Firmware Files From
Where To Download iPhone Firmware Files From
Deals. Save on Apple devices and accessories.
DEALS