Tech Desk 
Dec 05, 2024
Google Chrome for Android is gearing up to launch its built-in PDF reader for devices running Android 12 and above. This new feature, using the native PDF reader of Android, adds to the utility of the browser by making it unnecessary to use third-party apps to view PDF files.
Google Chrome for Android offers several useful PDF reader features, enhancing productivity and convenience. Users can annotate PDFs directly within the browser using tools such as pens and highlighters.
Google Chrome's built-in PDF reader features
Users do not need to switch to a third-party app to markup documents. Once annotated, the updated file can be saved directly to Google Drive, streamlining the process of editing and sharing documents.
In addition to annotation, the PDF reader allows a search of the content of the PDF with an extremely useful feature on the location of specific information that exists within large documents. Still, the built-in reader remains relatively basic and still does not support advanced functionality, such as digital signing.
For signing or heavy editing processes, users may need to stick with dedicated PDF editing apps.
How to enable Google Chrome’s built-in PDF reader
To use the PDF reader, users need to enable the following Chrome flags:
- Open PDF inline on Android: Available since Chrome 123, though functional only in later updates.
- Open PDF inline on Android pre-V: Works with Chrome 132 beta and newer builds.
These flags can be accessed by entering chrome://flags in the browser's address bar.
Google Chrome built-in PSF reader availability
Android 15 natively includes a built-in PDF reader, but Google has extended this feature to Android 12+ devices via a Google Play System update.
Although the feature is promising, it lacks advanced tools such as digital signatures and comprehensive editing capabilities. Users requiring these functionalities may still need dedicated PDF editors.
Google has not indicated how long it will take to have this feature fully rolled out in Chrome. Those wanting to try it out early can do so by turning the flags on.
