Google Chrome is the most well-liked browser on Android, but it has lengthy lacked a local PDF viewer, which is a stunning omission for such a broadly used browser. Latest developments recommend Google is near addressing this shortcoming, with assist for native PDF viewing now showing for some customers in check builds of Chrome.
Presently, when customers open a PDF file in Chrome, they’re redirected to apps like Google Drive or Recordsdata by Google. Alternatively, they will use third-party apps. Regardless of Chrome’s dominance and integration into Google’s ecosystem, the shortage of built-in PDF performance has been puzzling.
Earlier this 12 months, Google launched an experimental function by way of a flag for a PDF inline viewer. Nonetheless, the flag didn’t work even when enabled. In November, one other associated flag emerged, signaling additional progress.
Tips on how to Allow the Experimental PDF Reader Function on Chrome on Android
In accordance with a current report (by way of Android Authority), the inline PDF assist has began working for choose customers. Nonetheless, the function is proscribed to testers and requires the most recent Chrome construct to work.
To activate it, customers should allow two experimental Chrome flags: “Open PDF Inline on Android” and “Open PDF Inline on Android pre-V.” These will be accessed by typing chrome://flags into the deal with bar and manually trying to find the related choices. Even with these flags enabled, customers nonetheless have to obtain the PDF file earlier than opening it in Chrome.
- Launch the Google Chrome app in your Android machine.
- Kind
chrome://flagsinto the deal with bar and press Enter. - Manually seek for the 2 flags: Open PDF Inline on Android and Open PDF Inline on Android pre-V.
- Faucet the drop-down menu subsequent to every flag and choose Enabled.
- Faucet the Relaunch button on the backside to restart Chrome and apply the modifications.
What are the Options of Chrome’s Native PDF Reader?
The native PDF reader in Chrome provides fundamental performance, akin to textual content or key phrase looking out, textual content annotation, and undoing highlights utilizing devoted buttons.
This PDF function is powered by the identical built-in PDF framework present in Android 15, doubtlessly permitting different apps to leverage it. As well as, compatibility with older Android variations is supported by way of Google Play system updates.
As of now, there isn’t any official timeline for when this function will roll out to all Chrome customers. Nonetheless, given how the flags are already operational for some testers, it will not be too lengthy earlier than a full launch happens.
Which app do you employ at present to open or view PDF information in your Android machine? Tell us your most popular app within the feedback!
