Are you struggling to open PDF files on your Android device? You are not alone! Many users find themselves asking how to change default PDF viewer in Android after accidentally setting the wrong app as the default.
Well, no worries because Android gives you full control over apps that can handle your files so that you can change them as you please. You don’t need to be a tech expert or possess special skills to change the default PDF viewer app. Just follow the steps as given and it should be done in a moment.
If you are ready to learn how to change default PDF viewer android, we suggest you give this guide a read.
How To Change the Default PDF Viewer In Android?
Most Android phones these days have a default PDF viewer, which is a good thing, except they are basic and lack advanced features. By changing the default app, you can enhance your experience and view your PDF files more conveniently. Also, it gives you more control over your files, especially when reading or managing them.
Third-party PDF apps come with a range of features. They not only open your files faster, but also allow you to highlight text, and edit it as you like. This comes in handy if you use PDF files regularly for work or personal use. A good app can also organize your files better and make it easier for you to find them when needed.
Security is another reason to make the switch. That’s because not all default viewers get regular updates and as a result, they may have bugs or other vulnerabilities. Download a PDF viewer from the Play Store, so you can reduce the risk and use features like password protection and cloud backup.
Changing your default PDF viewer may seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference in how you manage your files. We will tell you how to change the default PDF viewer android in the next section.
Step-By-Step Guide To Change Default PDF Viewer In Android
Coming to the main topic, how to change the default PDF viewer in android, we have shared the steps for different Android devices. By following these simple steps, you can easily change your mobile PDF viewer to your desired app.
Changing Default PDF Viewer In Android
If your mobile PDF viewer loads too slowly, lacks features, or just doesn’t feel right, you can change it to your preferred app. The steps are simple and easy to follow. All you have to do is follow the instructions given below.
- Launch the Settings app on your Android device. This is where you can manage all your apps and preferences.
- Scroll down until you find the option called Apps or App Management and tap on it.
- Look for a section called Default Apps. You may find it under the three-dot menu at the top right corner depending on the phone you are using.
- Now, look for the option that shows your current default PDF viewer. Tap on it and select the app you want to use instead.
- Once done, your selected app will be used every time you open a PDF file.
Changing Default PDF Viewer On Samsung
Wondering how to change the default PDF viewer Samsung? Well, Samsung devices use a slightly different process and to change the default app, you must follow these instructions.
- Open the Settings app, then scroll down till you see Apps and tap on it.
- Look for the default PDF viewer app and select it.
- Inside the app settings, choose the Clear button to remove the app as the automatic PDF viewer.
- Now, navigate to the My Files app and open a PDF. Your device will ask you which app you want to use. Choose your preferred app and check the option that says Always so it becomes the new default.
Changing Default PDF Viewer On Redmi
If you are not satisfied with the default PDF viewer on your Redmi phone, you can change it by following these simple steps.
- Start by launching the Settings app on your Redmi phone.
- Scroll down and tap on Apps.
- Tap on Manage apps to see a list of all installed applications.
- Look for the default PDF viewer app and tap on it.
- Select Set as Default or Open by Default.
- Tap on Clear Defaults.
- The next time you access a PDF file, your phone will ask you to choose an app to open the file. Select Always after choosing your preferred PDF viewer.
Changing Default PDF Viewer On Realme
If you are not sure how to change the default PDF viewer in Realme, we have detailed the steps in the section below. Just do as it is given and you will be able to switch the default app.
- First, go to your phone’s settings menu.
- Look for Apps and tap on it.
- Look for Default apps or Choose default apps.
- Locate the current default PDF viewer app on your phone.
- Hit the Clear Defaults option, and then Clear.
- Now try to open a PDF file, so your phone will prompt you to choose an app. You can now set your desired PDF viewer as the default by selecting Always.
Change Default PDF Viewer On Oppo
If you are an Oppo user, you can change the default PDF viewer on your phone by completing these steps.
- The first thing you need to do is go to File Manager on your phone.
- Tap Documents and select the PDF file you want to view.
- Select the app you want to use as the default PDF viewer.
- Enable the “Don’t ask again” option if you want that app to always open PDF files.
To reset the default PDF viewer:
- Go to Settings on your OPPO phone.
- Select App Management, and then App List.
- Find the app you previously chose as the default PDF viewer.
- Select the “Open by default” option, then press “Clear Defaults,” and you are done.
Changing Default PDF Viewer App On Vivo
Like most other Android phones, Vivo users can also change the default PDF viewer to something better if they like.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by accessing the main settings menu on your Vivo phone.
- Find and tap on “Apps” or “Apps & notifications.”
- Next, find and tap on “Opening Links” or “Default apps.”
- Locate the app that is currently set as the default PDF viewer and tap on it.
- If you want to choose a completely new default, tap on “Clear defaults.”
- When you open a PDF file next time, you will be asked to choose an app that you want to use. Select your preferred app and tap “Always,” and that will become the new default.
How To Open A PDF On Android Using Adobe Acrobat Reader?
Opening PDF files on your Android phone or tablet is easy. You just need a PDF viewer app like Adobe Acrobat Reader and you are good to go.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Find the PDF file you want to open on your device.
- Tap the three vertical dots at the top-right corner of the file.
- Select “Open with” and choose Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- If prompted, sign in to your Adobe account.
- Your PDF will now open in the app, where you can read, edit, or highlight it.
Note: Most PDF viewer apps work similarly, so you can follow these same steps even if you are using a different app.
Opening A PDF On Android In A Web Browser
If your PDF is online like on a website, or in an email attachment, you don’t need to download any app to view it on your Android phone. Just follow these steps:
- Tap the link to the PDF.
- It will automatically open in your browser.
- From there, you can read, or download it. If needed, you can also open it in another app later.
How To Edit A PDF On Android
To make changes to a PDF on your Android device, you will need an app that allows editing. One of the best options is Adobe Acrobat Reader because it is advanced and offers a myriad of features.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Open the Files app or wherever your PDF is saved.
- Tap the file and choose Open with Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- If needed, sign in to your Adobe account.
- Use the editing tools in the app to make the required changes.
- After you are done, save the changes.
What To Look For In A PDF Viewer App For Android?
When choosing a PDF viewer app for your Android device, it is important to pick one that fits your needs. Understand that not all PDF apps are built the same. Some apps are advanced while others have basic features. Therefore, you need to be sure you are making the right choice.
Here are the important features to look for in a PDF viewer app:
Easy-to-Use Interface
A good PDF app should be simple and easy to use, so you don’t have to spend time figuring out how it works.
Fast Performance
The app should open PDF files quickly without crashing. Also, it should be able to handle large documents, especially if they include tables or images.
Editing and Signing
Some PDF apps allow you to edit text, fill out forms, and sign documents directly. This is useful for people who often work with PDFs and need to get the job done quickly.
Cloud Integration
The best apps connect with Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, or other cloud services. When choosing a PDF viewer app, make sure it lets you store files on cloud storage, so you can access them across devices.
Security
Security needs to be a priority, especially if you work with confidential documents. Make sure the app is safe and doesn’t collect too much of your data. Before you make a decision, read reviews and check permissions, so you get an idea if the app is worth it.
Top PDF Viewer Apps For Android
Now that you know how to change the default PDF viewer in Android, you must be wondering which app to pick. To help you out, here are three great PDF viewer apps for Android that make it easy to read, edit, and manage your PDF files.
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Adobe Acrobat Reader happens to be one of the most popular PDF viewer apps out there. It lets you open, read, edit, and highlight PDFs with ease. If you prefer storing your files in cloud storage, you will love how it syncs with your other devices. This allows you to access your documents anytime and anywhere.
PDFgear for Android
PDFgear is a user-friendly app that lets you do more than just open PDFs. From editing text and adding comments to signing documents and filling out forms, you can do all of that directly from your phone or tablet. The best part is that you can use all these features for free.
Microsoft 365 (Office)
Microsoft 365 isn’t just for Excel and Word because you can also use it to work with PDFs. Having this app installed on your phone allows you to view, edit, and convert PDF files with ease. If you often switch between different types of files, you can use Microsoft 365 to keep everything in one place.
Final Words
After reading through this guide, you have learned how to change default PDF viewer in Android. It takes just a few simple steps to change the default app and replace it with a better and more advanced option. You can easily download a third-party PDF viewer from the Play Store and use it whenever it’s needed.
FAQs
How do I change the default viewer for a PDF?
To change the default PDF viewer on your Android phone, go to the Settings app and clear the default app, so you can set your preferred app as the default.
How do I change the default file viewer in Android?
To change the default app for opening any type of file in Android:
- Go to Settings, and select Apps.
- Tap “See all apps” or “Manage apps.”
- Find the app that’s set as default.
- Tap “Open by default,” then “Clear defaults.”
- Now open the file again, choose your new app, and select “Always.”
How do I remove the default app to open a PDF?
To remove the default PDF viewer:
- Open Settings, and tap on Apps.
- Find the current PDF app and tap on it.
- Select Open by default.
- Tap Clear defaults and it’s done.
What is the inbuilt PDF viewer for Android?
Android has a built-in PDF viewer called PDFRenderer that is available from Android 5.0 and later. It is integrated into the system and used by various apps, including Chrome and Google Drive.
How do I change my default PDF viewer on Android?
To change the default PDF viewer on your Android device, you need to first clear the current default in the Settings app.
How do I permanently change the view of a PDF?
You can permanently change the view of a PDF by adjusting the initial view settings within the PDF file itself.
