How to change your default phone app on Android

Steps to choose which dialer or messages app Android uses for calls and SMS, and how to switch back.

Android uses one app at a time for calls and one for text messages. You can change either in Settings.

Default phone (dialer) app

Open Settings and tap Apps.
Tap Default apps (on some phones open the three-dot menu, then Default apps).
Tap Phone app (also called Calling app) and choose the app you want.

Follow the same path but choose SMS app (or Messaging app).

Menu names differ between Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi and others. Use the search box in Settings and type “default apps”.
To go back, choose your phone maker’s original app in the same screen.
If calls ring but the call screen does not show, restart the phone.

Once your phone app is set, you can improve your day-to-day experience with spam call blocking and spam text protection.

Menu names vary by Android version and manufacturer.

Why does the app ask to become the default?

Android lets only one app handle calls and one handle SMS at a time. The app must be the default to show the incoming call screen or receive texts.

Do emergency calls still work if I change the dialer?

Emergency calling is handled by the system. If you notice any problem after switching, set the original app back and restart the phone.

I changed the default but calls ring without showing a screen. What now?

Restart the phone and check that the app has the Phone permission and is allowed to display over other apps if it asks.