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How to Change the Default Mail Account on iPhone or iPad

Choose which configured account Mail uses by default for new messages when applicable.

Quick Answer

Open Settings → Apps → Mail → Default Account and select the desired account.

Step by Step

  1. Open the relevant Apple app or Settings section on the iPhone or iPad.
  2. Open Settings → Apps → Mail → Default Account and select the desired account.
  3. Review the result before deleting data, removing an account, or changing synchronization settings.
  4. For important data, confirm a current backup exists before making a major storage, account, or device change.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Apple occasionally moves settings between iOS/iPadOS versions, so exact menu wording can differ by software version.
  • iCloud synchronization is not the same as a separate backup of every item; deleting synchronized content can propagate to other devices.