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Mac - Set Default Application for PDFs

This document details how to set different applications to open PDF files in macOS.

***NOTE: By default, macOS has Preview the built in PDF reader open and render all PDFs. This can be changed with a few simple steps.***


1. Find a PDF file.

Screenshot of Find PDF

2. Right-tap (Control key + click) on the PDF. In the menu, select "Get Info."

Screenshot of Get Info Tab

3. When the Get Info window appears, expand the Open with section right above Preview.

Screenshot of Preview Window

4. Select where it currently says Preview as the default application.

Screenshot of Change Default

5. Select the desired application.

Pick desired application

6. If you desire that all PDFs open via the new application (not just the one we are currently viewing) select "Change All..."

Screenshot of Change All Tab

7. macOS will ask for confirmation of this action. If you wish to proceed, select "Continue."

Screenshot of Continue

8. Close the Get Info window.



KeywordsPDF, default, application, macOS, Mac, Macbook, set   Doc ID26046
OwnerZachary G.GroupUW Green Bay
Created2012-08-24 14:10:01Updated2024-04-08 08:21:08
SitesUW Green Bay
Feedback  50   2