PDF (Portable Document Format) is a popular file format that is widely used in various fields such as education, business, and more. Many Android users have experienced the frustration of clicking on a PDF file, only to have it open in an app they did not choose, or worse, an app they do not even like. Luckily, changing the default app to open PDF on Android is a simple process that can save you time and hassle in the future.
The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive guide on how to change the default app to open PDF on Android, and to highlight the different methods that can be used to achieve this task. Whether you’re an Android newbie or a seasoned user, the steps provided in this guide will help you change your default PDF app in no time.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To change the default app to open PDF on Android, you will need an Android device and a PDF viewer app of your choice. There are several PDF viewer apps available on the Google Play Store, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, Xodo PDF Reader & Editor, and Foxit PDF Reader & Converter. Make sure to download and install the PDF viewer app you want to use before proceeding with the methods provided in this guide.
What Requires Your Focus?
Changing the default app to open PDF on Android involves accessing and modifying system settings. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to the instructions provided in this guide to avoid any unintended consequences or complications.
Different Methods to Change Default App to Open PDF on Android
Method 1: Via Android System Settings
If you want to change the default app to open PDF on Android permanently, you can do so through the Android system settings. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Scroll down and select “Apps” or “Applications” depending on your device.
- Find and select the default PDF viewer app that you want to replace.
- Select “Clear defaults” to remove the app as the default.
- Open a PDF file in any file manager app on your Android device. A list of apps will appear that can open the PDF file.
- Select the PDF viewer app that you want to use as the new default app.
- Select “Always” to set the app as the default PDF viewer for all future PDF files.
Pros:
– This method is simple and permanent.
Cons:
– You may lose your preferred settings and other information associated with the default PDF viewer app you replaced.
Method 2: Via the PDF Viewer App
Another method to change the default app to open PDF on Android is through the PDF viewer app itself. Some PDF viewer apps offer the option to set themselves as the default PDF viewer app for all PDF files. Here’s how:
- Open the PDF viewer app that you want to use as the default app.
- Go to its settings menu (usually accessible through the three dots or gear icon).
- Look for “Set as default” or a similar option.
- Select the “Set as default” option to set the app as the default PDF viewer for all future PDF files.
Pros:
– This method is simple and quick.
Cons:
– Not all PDF viewer apps offer this option.
Method 3: Via Google Drive
If you use Google Drive to store and access your PDF files, you can change the default app to open PDF on Android through it. Here’s how:
- Open the Google Drive app on your Android device.
- Find and select the PDF file that you want to open.
- Long-press on the PDF file to reveal a list of options.
- Select “Open with” from the list of options.
- Choose the PDF viewer app that you want to use as the default app from the list of apps.
- Select “Always” to set the app as the default PDF viewer for all future PDF files.
Pros:
– This method is easy and convenient if you use Google Drive to store and access your PDF files.
Cons:
– It only works for PDF files stored in Google Drive.
Why Can’t I Set a Default PDF Viewer App on Android?
There are several reasons why you may not be able to set a default PDF viewer app on Android. However, most of these issues can be resolved by following one of the methods provided in this guide. Here are some common reasons why you may not be able to change the default app to open PDF on Android:
1. No PDF Viewer App Installed
You need to have a PDF viewer app installed on your Android device to set it as the default PDF viewer app. If you don’t have one installed, download and install a PDF viewer app from the Google Play Store.
2. Default App Not Selected
If you have multiple PDF viewer apps installed on your Android device, you need to select one as the default app. You can do this by following the methods provided in this guide.
3. System App Cannot be Disabled
In some cases, the default PDF viewer app on your Android device may be pre-installed as a system app that cannot be disabled. In this case, you can still change the default app to open PDF on Android by following the methods provided in this guide.
Implications and Recommendations
Changing the default app to open PDF on Android can have several implications, such as:
– Saving Time
With the default app set to your preferred PDF viewer app, you can save time and avoid the hassle of having to select a default app each time you open a PDF file on your Android device.
– Improved User Experience
By setting a PDF viewer app that you like and prefer as the default app, you can enjoy an improved user experience when viewing and interacting with PDF files on your Android device.
– Security Concerns
Using an outdated or unreliable PDF viewer app can put your device and personal information at risk. By changing the default app to a trustworthy and up-to-date PDF viewer app, you can ensure the security of your Android device and personal information.
Here are some recommendations to consider when changing the default app to open PDF on Android:
– Choose a Trustworthy and Reliable PDF Viewer App
Before changing the default app, make sure to research and select a PDF viewer app that is trustworthy, reliable, and has good user ratings.
– Keep PDF Viewer App Up-to-date
Make sure to keep your PDF viewer app up-to-date to ensure it has the latest security patches and bug fixes.
– Download PDF Files from Trusted Sources Only
Downloading PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources can put your device and personal information at risk. Make sure to only download PDF files from trusted sources.
5 FAQs about Changing Default App to Open PDF on Android
Q1: What is a default app?
A default app is the app that is automatically chosen to perform a specific task when you open a particular file or perform a specific action on your Android device. For example, the default app to open PDF files is usually Google Drive or the PDF viewer app that came pre-installed on your device.
A1:
A default app can be changed by following the methods provided in this guide.
Q2: How do I know which PDF viewer app is my default app?
You can check which PDF viewer app is set as your default app by going to “Apps” or “Applications” in the Settings app on your Android device and looking for the app that is listed as the default app for opening PDF files.
A2:
This app can be replaced by following the methods provided in this guide.
Q3: Can I change the default app back to the pre-installed app?
Yes, you can change the default app to open PDF on Android back to the pre-installed app by following the methods provided in this guide.
A3:
By following the methods listed in this guide, you can change the default PDF viewer app to any app you like, including the pre-installed app.
Q4: Does changing the default app to open PDF on Android affect other file types?
No, changing the default app to open PDF on Android only affects the way PDF files are opened on your device. It does not affect how other file types are opened.
A4:
Once you have changed the default app to open PDF on Android, only PDF files will be opened by the app you chose.
Q5: Can I change the default app to open PDF on Android without installing a new app?
No, you need to have a PDF viewer app installed on your Android device to change the default app to open PDF on Android. You can download and install a PDF viewer app from the Google Play Store if you don’t have one installed.
A5:
Make sure to install a trustworthy and reliable PDF viewer app to ensure the security of your device and personal information.
In Conclusion
Changing the default app to open PDF on Android can be a simple process that can save you time and hassle in the future. By following the methods provided in this guide, you can set your preferred PDF viewer app as the default app in just a few steps. Additionally, by considering the implications and recommendations listed in this guide, you can ensure a secure and enjoyable user experience when viewing and interacting with PDF files on your Android device.