A web link tapped in Gmail can open a browser different from the one you expected. Check the iPhone’s browser default separately from its email default: choosing Gmail for email links does not choose the browser used for websites.
Distinguish a web link from an email link
A normal website link usually begins with https. An email-address link uses the mailto scheme and starts a new message instead. Test with a trusted, ordinary website link rather than a sign-in, payment, or password-reset link.
Also notice whether you see a page within Gmail or a separate browser app. An in-app web view and the operating system’s default browser are different parts of the link-opening process.
Check the system’s Default Apps settings
On current supported iOS versions, open Settings, Apps, and Default Apps, then review Browser App. Select the installed browser you intend to use. If you are configuring email-address links, review the separate Email setting.
Older iOS versions can place default-browser controls under an individual browser’s settings. Available categories and choices also depend on the software version and region. Use Apple’s instructions for your device rather than assuming that another person’s menu will be identical.
Compare Gmail with another app
Try the same harmless web address from another app. If only Gmail behaves differently, inspect the link-opening options offered in your version of Gmail or its in-app browser. Do not assume that every release exposes the same preference or that a browser default forces every embedded view to close.
On a managed iPhone, a company policy or work app may control the route. Ask the administrator about that restriction rather than removing device management. Once the preferred route works, verify the destination address before entering credentials. A familiar browser name alone does not make a link trustworthy.
Browse Gmail & Google Account help
References
- Change your default apps for features on iPhone and iPad
- Set your default browser, mail, maps & calendar apps
- Change your Gmail settings
Reviewed against the linked product guidance, standards, and identified vendor or public-authority guidance on October 29, 2026. Available options and screen labels can vary by account, device, region, and organization policy.