Universal links on iPhone are the automatic, built-in mechanism that lets links open directly in their corresponding app instead of Safari. For apps like YouTube and Instagram that support this feature, it works by default without you needing to change any settings.
The automatic way: universal links on iPhone
Universal links are standard HTTPS URLs that, when properly configured by an app developer, open directly into the associated app rather than a web browser. This is the primary mechanism for opening links in apps on iPhone, and it works seamlessly for apps that support it. You don't need to toggle any settings or install extra software. When you tap a universal link for an app you have installed, your iPhone automatically hands off the link to that app, giving you a smoother experience with features like subscriptions, playlists, or personalized recommendations that the browser version can't offer.
Why a link might still open in Safari
Even when an app supports universal links, there is one verified exception: if you tap a universal link while you are actively browsing the same domain in Safari, the link may open in Safari to respect your intent to stay within the browser. The fix is simple. Close the Safari tab for that website, then tap the link again. With no active browsing session on that domain, the universal link will correctly open the app.
How to check if an app supports universal links
You can quickly test whether an app supports universal links. Open the Notes or Mail app and find a link that belongs to a specific app, like a YouTube video or an Instagram profile. Long-press that link.
Fallback method: use the shortcuts app to force links to open in an app
For apps that do not support universal links, you can use the Shortcuts app as a manual workaround. This method lets you create a custom automation that forces a link to open in a specific app.
- Open the Shortcuts app and tap the "+" button to create a new shortcut.
- Add the "Open URLs" action and paste the link you want to open.
- Add the "Open App" action and select the app you want to force the link into.
- Tap "Done" to save the shortcut.
When you run this shortcut, it will open the link directly in the chosen app, bypassing the browser entirely. This is a useful fallback when universal links are not available.
A note on changing your default web browser
Changing your default web browser, via Settings > Apps > Default Apps > Browser App on iOS 18.2 and later, or by going to Settings, scrolling to your preferred browser app, and tapping "Default Browser App", only switches which browser opens when a link must use a browser. It does not make links open in native apps like YouTube or Instagram. For that, you need universal links or the Shortcuts fallback.
