Unlock the Hidden Features of Your Android Device: How to Get Open with Option

Are you tired of apps opening files in the wrong way? Do you wish you had more control over how your Android device handles different file types? This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to master the “Open With” option in Android, giving you the power to choose the perfect app for each file type.

Understanding the “Open With” Option

The “Open With” option in Android is a powerful feature that allows you to select the app you want to use to open a specific file. This is particularly useful when you have multiple apps capable of handling the same file type, such as PDF readers, image viewers, or music players. By utilizing the “Open With” option, you can ensure that your files are opened in the app that best suits your needs and preferences.

Accessing the “Open With” Option

There are two primary ways to access the “Open With” option in Android:

1. From the File Manager:

• Open your preferred file manager app (e.g., Files by Google, MiXplorer).
• Navigate to the file you want to open.
• Long-press the file and select “Open With” from the context menu.

2. From the Notification:

• When you tap on a file that your device doesn’t know how to open, a notification will appear.
• This notification will usually offer a “Open With” option. Tap on it to see a list of compatible apps.

Choosing the Right App

Once you’ve accessed the “Open With” menu, you’ll be presented with a list of apps capable of handling the file type. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the right selection:

1. Review the App List: Examine the list of apps and identify any that you recognize or have used before.
2. Consider the File Type: Think about the type of file you’re opening and which app would be most suitable. For example, if you’re opening a PDF, you might prefer a dedicated PDF reader app.
3. Check App Ratings: If you’re unsure about an app, check its rating in the Play Store. This can provide valuable insights into the app’s performance and reliability.
4. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try out different apps to see which one you prefer. You can always change your default app later.

Setting Default Apps

Once you’ve found the perfect app for a specific file type, you can set it as the default app for that file type. This will ensure that the app automatically opens all files of that type in the future. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access the “Open With” Menu: Follow the steps mentioned above to access the “Open With” menu for a specific file.
2. Select the Desired App: Choose the app you want to set as the default.
3. Enable “Always use this app”: Tick the checkbox next to “Always use this app” to make your selection permanent.
4. Confirm Your Choice: Tap “OK” or “Confirm” to finalize the setting.

Managing Default Apps

You can easily manage your default apps in Android using the following steps:

1. Open Settings: Navigate to your device’s settings menu.
2. Find Apps & Notifications: Locate the “Apps & Notifications” section.
3. Select “See all apps”: Tap on “See all apps” to view a list of installed apps.
4. Choose an App: Select the app whose default settings you want to manage.
5. Tap on “Open by default”: This option will allow you to view and change the default settings for the app.
6. Modify Default Settings: You can either remove the default setting for the app or choose a different app to handle specific file types.

Tips for Optimizing the “Open With” Option

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience with the “Open With” option:

• Keep Your Apps Updated: Regularly update your apps to ensure compatibility with the latest file types and to benefit from any bug fixes or performance improvements.
• Explore Third-Party File Managers: Consider using a third-party file manager app, as many offer more advanced features and customization options for managing and opening files.
• Utilize File Sharing Apps: If you need to share files frequently, consider using a dedicated file sharing app, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These apps often provide seamless integration with the “Open With” option.

The Power of Choice: Empowering Your Android Experience

By mastering the “Open With” option, you gain control over how your Android device handles different file types. You can ensure that your files are opened in the most appropriate apps, enhancing your productivity and enjoyment. This powerful feature empowers you to customize your Android experience to perfectly suit your needs and preferences.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What if I accidentally set the wrong default app?

A: You can easily change the default app by following the steps mentioned in the “Managing Default Apps” section.

Q: Can I set different default apps for different file types?

A: Yes, you can set different default apps for different file types. For example, you can set Google Photos as the default app for images while setting VLC Player as the default app for videos.

Q: What if I don’t see the “Open With” option?

A: The availability of the “Open With” option may vary depending on the file type and the app you’re using. If you’re unable to find the option, try using a different app or file manager.

Q: Can I use the “Open With” option for files stored in the cloud?

A: Yes, you can use the “Open With” option for files stored in cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

Q: How do I know which apps are compatible with a specific file type?

A: You can usually determine compatible apps by looking at the file extension. For example, files with the .pdf extension are compatible with PDF reader apps. You can also check the app descriptions in the Play Store to see which file types they support.