If a link inside Gmail opens the wrong app on Android, first identify the link type. A website link in an email, a link that composes a new email, and Android’s Share command follow different routes. Making Gmail the default email app does not determine which app opens a shopping or document website.
Check Gmail’s browsing setting
In Gmail, open Menu, Settings, and General settings. Where available, review Open weblinks in Gmail. Google describes this setting as opening links inside Gmail for faster browsing. Its availability and the next screen can vary with the installed app and device.
Use a harmless, familiar website link to compare behavior after changing this setting. Do not test with an unexpected payment, password-reset, or attachment link. Record whether Gmail’s browser, your default browser, or a separate installed app opens.
Review the specific app’s supported links
- Open Android Settings and find the app that incorrectly receives the link.
- Look for its default-opening or supported-links settings. Device labels may include Open by default or Open supported links.
- Review only the relevant association or clear that app’s applicable default where the device allows it, then repeat the harmless test.
Android App Links can use a verified association between an app and a website to open matching content directly. That is separate from choosing an email handler for mailto: links. A working browser default alone therefore does not explain every native-app opening.
Keep account and profile boundaries intact
Work-profile links may be subject to organization policy. If the wrong profile opens, note the briefcase-marked app and ask the administrator about the permitted route. Avoid copying work content into a personal app to bypass that boundary.
Do not reset every app preference, disable certificate checks, or remove security software for a single link association. If the behavior persists, provide the app versions, link domain, profile, and observed opening path to support without sharing confidential link tokens.
Browse Gmail & Google Account help
References
- Change your Gmail settings
- Set or clear default apps on your Pixel phone or Pixel Tablet
- About deep links | App architecture | Android Developers
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.