How to set Photoshop 2026 as the default app for image files on iMac M1 with macOS Sequoia?

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Level 1

8 points

How to set Photoshop 2026 as the default app for image files on iMac M1 with macOS Sequoia?

Hi everyone. I use an iMac M1 at work, running MacOS Sequoia. The Adobe CC applications I use have recently been updated to the 2026 versions. However when trying to open for example, a jpeg file, it will open in Preview not Photoshop 2026.

Checking 'Get info' on the file shows the default application is Adobe Acrobat. If I change the setting 'use this application to open all documents like this one' to Photoshop, the default application reverts back to Adobe Acrobat. If I change a single file to open in Photoshop, not system wide, the system thinks it is malware and won't open.

Files can be opened through Photoshop, but this can be a pain when editing placed images via Indesign as they will always open in Preview not Photoshop. Does anyone have any ideas? Is it a permission setting? Thanks.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Default app

iMac (M1, 2021)

Posted on Dec 5, 2025 12:44 AM

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Answer 1

Dec 5, 2025 2:16 AM in response to phetttt

Something does not add up.

The default application for jpeg or other image files (png, tiff, heic...) is Preview; and you say that double clicking a jpeg opens in Preview (that's normal). But then in the Get Info it says Acrobat?! That's weird.

Are you sure you are not doing Get Info on a pdf instead?

Can you post a screenshot of that Get Info window?

If you change just one file and do not "Apply to All", does that stick?

There is a chance you need to rebuild the launch services database.

If we come to that, the easy way to do it is with the free utility OnyX, but first please clarify the above.

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Answer 2

Old Toad

Level 10

215,196 points

Dec 5, 2025 11:20 AM in response to phetttt

If all else fails try this: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and set the default app to Photoshop and see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

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