How to Change Default Apps in Ubuntu
You change default apps in Ubuntu to assign which program your system uses automatically when you open a specific file type.
A default application is the program your Linux desktop environment selects by default for tasks like opening documents, images, or videos. This is crucial when you have multiple applications capable of handling the same file format and want a consistent experience.
For instance, you might want to set VLC media player as the default for all video files instead of the pre-installed Totem, ensuring your preferred player launches every time. This process remains consistent across modern Ubuntu versions, including Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and later.
Open System Settings, click Default Applications, and use the dropdown menus to select your preferred programs for various file types. Alternatively, right-click a file, select Properties, go to the Open With tab, choose an application, and click Set as default.
How to change the default program for file types in Ubuntu Linux
You can easily change the default program that opens specific file types in Ubuntu Linux right from the System Settings panel.
Here’s how to do that.
Most of Ubuntu’s settings live in one place: the System Settings panel. You can manage everything from system configurations to user accounts and updates there.
Another way to get to it is by clicking the System menu in the top-right corner of your desktop.
On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.
Click on the Default Applications tile in the Settings app to open that section.
On the System Settings -> Default Applications pane, use the dropdown caret to select the default program you want to associate with a file type.
Some file types will have multiple programs that can open them. Choosing an application for a file type from the list below will make that program the default.
Alternatively, you can browse to the file whose default association you want to change. First, right-click on the file, then select Properties.
Select the Open With tab.
Pick the application you want and click Set as default.
If Other Applications contains an application you sometimes want to use but don’t want to make the default, select that application and click Add.
This will add it to Recommended Applications.
That should do it!
Conclusion:
- Changing the default application for file types in Ubuntu Linux can help streamline your workflow and improve productivity.
- Whether you prefer a specific music player for MP3 files or a particular application for text documents, customizing default programs can enhance your user experience.
- Use the detailed steps in this post to effortlessly modify and manage default applications on your Ubuntu Linux system.
How do I change the default application to open a file in Ubuntu?
Right-click the file and select Properties. Select the Open With tab. Select the application you want and click Set as default. If Other Applications contains an application you sometimes want to use, but do not want to make the default, select that application and click Add.
How do I change the default app to another app?
Left. From here all we need to do is navigate to your apps. Section. So let's scroll down until we find the option for apps. And tap on that.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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