How to Change Default Applications in Mac OS X
The Mac OS X operating system registers default programs with different kinds of files. For example, PDF files are opened with the Preview program by default. The Mac OS X Finder keeps track of all the file associations on the system. If an unknown file type is opened, a window appears, asking for the application with which to associate the file type. You can change the default application for a given file type in Mac OS X.
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Instructions
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Click the "Finder" icon in the dock, then locate a file whose default opening application you wish to change. For example, locate a JPG image file.
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Hold the "Ctrl" key, then click the file.
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Click "Get Info."
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Click to expand "Open with."
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Click the drop-down list to select an available application to open the file. If the desired application is not listed, click "Other" to locate the program.
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Tips & Warnings
If no default application is found for a new file type, you must choose one when you open the file for the first time. You'll see a window that asks you to choose an application to open that particular file type in the future.
