Use simple tools to open and read text content that's saved in universal PDF format
Use simple tools to open and read text content that's saved in universal PDF format
Vote: (12 votes)
Program license: Free
Developer: Google Inc.
Version: 2.19.381.03.40
Works under: Android
Vote:
Program license
(12 votes)
Free
Developer
Version
Google Inc.
2.19.381.03.40
Works under:
Android
Pros
- Allows users to display PDF files on their smartphones or tablets
- Clicking a PDF link or download in Android OS automatically launches app
Cons
- Google Drive makes this app unnecessary for most users
- Compatibility issues may persist for certain documents
Google PDF Viewer loads and renders PDF files in the Android operating system. Technically speaking, Android OS doesn't feature native support for PDF files. Most devices come with a viewer of some sort, and this particular app is an excellent solution. People access PDFs for personal, professional, and educational reasons on a constant basis. If an individual couldn't open these files on their smartphone, then they'd run into plenty of trouble.
After installing Google PDF Viewer, individual users won't see an icon for this app. It works more like a plugin than a traditional smartphone app. Google PDF Viewer automatically launches once a PDF file is opened on the device. PDF files open into a basic viewer with the option to search for text or rotate the orientation of the content. Otherwise, users cannot edit or change the files through this app as it's read-only by nature.
Users may notice that PDF files open quickly and display as originally intended. Google PDF Viewer rarely runs into issues, but compatibility problems do occur. Also, smartphones with Google Drive installed won't need Google PDF Viewer. Google Drive includes native support for viewing PDF files, and most Android smartphones include the app. Only certain enterprise accounts may not support Google Drive, making this app a necessary download.
In the end, Google has created a highly useful utility in Google PDF Viewer. Similar apps are available in the Play Store, and some of them offer more features or functionality. It doesn't hurt that Google's solution simply works in most cases. Not everyone needs to edit or modify PDFs after all. For viewing PDFs, a more simple and effective solution might not be available, if Google Drive isn't compatible with a given device for whatever reason.
Pros
- Allows users to display PDF files on their smartphones or tablets
- Clicking a PDF link or download in Android OS automatically launches app
Cons
- Google Drive makes this app unnecessary for most users
- Compatibility issues may persist for certain documents