macOS · Devices
Set default actions for inserted discs
CDs & DVDs settings let you choose what happens automatically when you insert a music CD, picture CD, video DVD, or blank disc into a connected optical drive, such as opening a specific app.
How to open CDs & DVDs
- Connect an external optical drive if your Mac does not have one built in
- Open System Settings → General → CDs & DVDs
- Choose a default action for each disc type from its dropdown menu
- Insert a disc to confirm the chosen app or action triggers correctly
What you should know
- Separate default action settings for music CDs, picture CDs, video DVDs, and blank discs
- Options include opening a chosen app, running a script, or doing nothing
- Applies to external USB SuperDrives since modern Macs lack built-in optical drives
- Settings persist across different discs of the same type
Why it matters
Even though modern Macs no longer include a built-in optical drive, many people still use an external USB SuperDrive to rip old music collections, watch legacy DVDs, or archive old photo CDs, and this pane controls what happens the moment such a disc is connected. Setting sensible defaults avoids an unwanted app launching every time, or conversely, having to manually locate and open the right app each time a disc is inserted.
Best practices
- Set music CDs to open your preferred media app so ripping or listening starts immediately
- Choose 'Ignore' for disc types you rarely use to avoid unwanted apps launching automatically
- Set blank discs to open a specific burning app if you frequently create backup or audio discs
- Eject discs properly through Finder rather than physically forcing the drive when possible
Common problems and fixes
- The wrong app opens automatically when a disc is inserted
- Change the corresponding disc type's default action in CDs & DVDs settings to the app you actually want.
- No app opens at all for a disc type
- Check that the setting for that disc type is not set to Ignore, and choose an appropriate app instead.
- An external optical drive is not recognized
- Confirm the SuperDrive is properly connected via USB and try a different port, since some drives need direct connection rather than through a hub.
Tips and tricks
- Set picture CDs to open Photos automatically if you regularly import from old photo CDs.
- Use 'Run script' for advanced automated workflows, such as automatically backing up disc contents on insert.
Frequently asked questions
Do current Macs have a CD/DVD drive built in?
No, current Mac models require an external USB SuperDrive or third-party optical drive for CDs and DVDs.
Can I set different actions for music versus video discs?
Yes, each disc type has its own independent default action setting.
Will this setting affect ripping software I already use?
No, it only controls what launches automatically on insert; you can still manually open any app to work with the disc.
Related settings
- Storage ManagementStorage settings show a visual breakdown of exactly what's using space on your Mac's disk, plus built-in recommendations — like storing files in iCloud or automatically emptying the Trash — to free up space without manually hunting for large files yourself.
- Printers & ScannersPrinters & Scanners settings let you add, configure, and manage printers and scanners connected over USB, Wi-Fi, or a network, including setting a default printer and checking on active print jobs.
- General & Default AppsThe General settings pane covers system-wide basics like software update, storage, and login items, while default app settings let you choose which app opens web links, email, and specific file types instead of relying on Apple's built-in apps.
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