Default Apps for Links

Updated on December 22, 2024

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When you receive your phone, the default apps for opening links are already pre-configured for the apps preinstalled. However, it’s easy to accidentally change these settings and it’s sometimes necessary to check when you install a new app.

Purpose of Default Apps: #

Default apps are set so links open in the most appropriate app, rather than a web browser.
For example:

  • A Telegram link (e.g., https://t.me/FTSdm) should open in the Telegram App, not a browser.
  • A link to install an app should open the respective app store (Aurora Store or Neo Store).
    • Eg. You scan a code to install an app, it should open the app store, not the browser.
  • Youtube Links should open inside either Newpipe or Grayjay (if you have it)

This setup also applies to other apps you may install, like Spotify, to ensure their corresponding links open correctly.


Managing Default Apps: #

  1. General Settings:
    • Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps > Opening Links.
      • Then, select the app, (ie Aurora Store) to check the links the app is set to open
      • if you can, hit `Add link` to see the list of compatible links that app can handle.
      • Generally i’d go through and check all the boxes for each app.
  2. Specific Apps:
    • Long-press the app icon, select App Info (marked with an “i” icon), and configure how it handles links.

Note: If you have two apps that can handle the same type of link, you can only enable one.

When properly set, links for supported services will open in the appropriate app, making your phone more functional and seamless.


Example: Grayjay for Media Links #

Grayjay is an excellent all-in-one media app for platforms like Rumble, Odysee, YouTube, and SoundCloud. So configure it to handle links from these services, ensuring they open directly in Grayjay instead of a web browser, which is also beneficial for privacy.

This means that when someone sends you a random youtube link, it won’t open inside of the browser, instead it’ll open inside the appropriate app.


Recommended Apps for Default Setup: #

To ensure smooth operation, set up these apps as defaults for their respective functions:

  • Maps: Organic Maps, Magic Earth
  • App Stores: Neo Store, Aurora Store
  • Media: Grayjay (or NewPipe if you prefer), AntennaPod
  • Messaging: Telegram

Additional Tips: #

Keep in mind when installing new apps that they may need specific link handling. For instance, if you install Spotify, you may need to configure it to open music links directly.

Generally it’s automatic, but it’s useful to know in case you need to change something.

By maintaining these default settings, you’ll enjoy a more seamless and functional experience on your privacy phone.

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