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How to Set Chrome as Default Browser on a Vivo Phone
If your Vivo phone keeps opening links in the Vivo Browser instead of Google Chrome, you are not alone. Many users change the default browser because they already use Chrome on their laptop, want their bookmarks and passwords synced, or simply prefer Chrome’s interface. The good news is that this setting can usually be changed in just a few minutes.
In this guide, I’ll show you the exact steps to make Chrome your default browser on a Vivo phone. I’ll also cover what to do if the option is missing, if Chrome is not showing up, or if your phone keeps switching back after an update.
Quick answer: Open Settings on your Vivo phone, go to Apps, then Default apps, tap Browser, and select Chrome. If you cannot find that option, use the Settings search bar and search for default apps.
Why change the default browser on Vivo?
Vivo Browser may work fine for basic use, but a lot of people still prefer Chrome because it fits better into their daily workflow. If you already use a Google account on other devices, Chrome can sync your saved passwords, bookmarks, browsing history, and even open tabs. That makes switching between phone and desktop much easier.
Another reason is familiarity. Many users simply trust Chrome more because they have used it for years. The layout feels more comfortable, and websites often behave more consistently. On top of that, Chrome gets regular updates and security improvements, which is important if you open a lot of links from WhatsApp, email, or social media.
If you want to stay safer while opening links on your phone, you can also read our guides on phone hacked signs and how to detect phishing links in WhatsApp.
Before you start
- Make sure Google Chrome is installed from the Play Store
- Update Chrome to the latest version if possible
- Keep your Vivo phone charged and updated
- Close any settings screens already open before trying again
These small things can help avoid the usual issues where Chrome does not appear as an option or the setting does not save properly.
How to set Chrome as the default browser on Vivo
Step 1: Install or update Chrome
Open the Google Play Store and search for Google Chrome. If it is not installed, install it. If it is already installed, update it first. Sometimes the browser does not show correctly in default app settings until it has been fully updated.
Step 2: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your Vivo phone. You can tap the gear icon from the app drawer or pull down the notification panel and open settings from there.
Step 3: Go to Apps
Scroll until you find Apps, Applications, or App management. The exact name can vary a little depending on your Vivo model and Funtouch OS version.
Step 4: Open Default apps
Inside the Apps section, look for Default apps or Default app settings. On some phones, this option is placed inside another menu like App management, so check there if you do not see it immediately.
Step 5: Tap Browser
Once you open Default apps, tap Browser or Browser app. This is the setting that controls which browser opens links from other apps.
Step 6: Select Chrome
You should now see the list of available browsers on your phone. Choose Chrome. After that, back out of the settings and test a link from WhatsApp, Gmail, or another app. It should now open in Chrome.
Step 7: Test it properly
Do not just assume it worked. Open a link from another app, not from inside Chrome itself. This gives you the real result. If it still opens in Vivo Browser, continue to the troubleshooting section below.
Alternative way if you cannot find the option
On some Vivo phones, the settings path can look different. If you cannot find Default apps easily, use the search bar at the top of the Settings screen and type:
- Default apps
- Browser
- Open links
- Chrome
This is often the fastest way, especially on phones where Vivo has moved settings around in newer system versions.
What if Chrome is not showing in the browser list?
This is one of the most common problems. Usually it happens because Chrome was just installed, is disabled, or the phone has not refreshed the app list yet.
- Open Play Store and make sure Chrome is fully installed
- Restart your phone once
- Go to Settings > Apps > Chrome and make sure the app is enabled
- Open Chrome once manually before trying to set it as default
After doing this, go back to Default apps and check again.
What if Vivo Browser keeps coming back?
Sometimes after a system update, app defaults may reset. This does not always happen, but it can. If links suddenly start opening in Vivo Browser again, just repeat the default app steps and set Chrome again.
You can also check whether Vivo Browser has special app permissions or open-by-default settings that are interfering. In some cases, clearing defaults for the built-in browser helps.
Try this if the setting keeps resetting
- Go to Settings > Apps > Vivo Browser
- Look for Open by default or Set as default
- Clear defaults if that option appears
- Then go back and set Chrome as default again
Can you disable Vivo Browser?
On some Vivo phones, yes. On others, it may only allow you to force stop it or remove updates. If your phone gives you the option to disable it, that can reduce confusion and stop accidental use. But if there is no disable button, do not worry. Setting Chrome as default is usually enough.
Just be careful not to disable system apps randomly if you are unsure what they do. If you are facing other Android issues too, you may find this helpful: Steps to Recover a Hacked Android Device.
Why many users prefer Chrome on Android
Chrome is popular not just because of the Google name, but because it works well with other Google services. If you save passwords in Chrome, use Gmail, browse on desktop, or rely on Google search often, Chrome makes the whole experience smoother. Many users also feel more comfortable with Chrome’s interface and security warnings.
That said, the best browser is the one that fits your use. Some people prefer lightweight browsers, and some prefer privacy-focused options. But if your goal is simple syncing and convenience, Chrome is usually the easiest choice.
Useful tips after setting Chrome as default
- Sign in to Chrome with your Google account to sync bookmarks and passwords
- Turn on Safe Browsing in Chrome settings
- Update Chrome regularly
- Avoid opening suspicious links from unknown messages
- Check browser permissions if something feels strange
If you receive a lot of spam or suspicious calls along with suspicious links, you can also read how to stop unknown calls on Android.
Does this work on all Vivo phones?
This method works on most Vivo phones, including many V series, Y series, X series, and iQOO models that use related software. The wording may change slightly, but the general process stays almost the same: Apps, Default apps, Browser, then Chrome.
If your phone is using a very old or heavily customized version of the software, the menu names may differ. In that case, the settings search bar is your best friend.
FAQ
How do I make Chrome my default browser on Vivo?
Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Browser and select Chrome. If you cannot find the option, use the search bar inside Settings and search for default apps.
Why is my Vivo phone opening links in Vivo Browser instead of Chrome?
This usually happens because Vivo Browser is still set as the default browser, or app defaults were reset after a system update.
Can I change the default browser back later?
Yes. You can repeat the same steps and choose Vivo Browser or another browser any time you want.
Why is Chrome not showing on my Vivo phone?
Make sure Chrome is installed properly, updated, enabled, and opened once after installation. A restart can also help refresh the list.
Does changing the browser affect phone performance?
Not in any major way for most users. Chrome may use a bit more memory than a lightweight browser, but on normal daily use the difference is usually small.
Final thoughts
Changing the default browser on a Vivo phone is a small setting, but it can make a big difference in daily use. If you prefer Chrome, want your data synced, and are tired of links opening in the wrong browser, this is one of the easiest phone tweaks you can make.
The main thing is to check carefully through the Apps and Default apps settings, and if the option looks hidden, use the Settings search bar. Once it is set correctly, your browsing experience should feel much smoother.
