How to view PDF instead of download

Question

Level 1

11 points

How to view PDF instead of download

Hi All,

I’ve recently noticed that when I click on a pdf file, it goes into download and then I have to choose which software to open it with. It used to be that PDFs would automatically open without the long process of downloading and then selecting a software to view it with. I thought it was a chrome issue so tried Firefox and the same thing happens.

Does anyone know how I can stop PDF files from downloading but I can view them automatically?

I read up on how to do this but the solutions I found are more for a desktop than for a mobile device. Any help would be great. Thanks in advance

Posted on Mar 3, 2022 9:20 AM

Reply

Answer 1

brbo

Level 8

38,569 points

Mar 4, 2022 5:30 PM in response to Crush4

Hi Crush4,

Welcome to the Apple Community.

Wondering which iPad model you are using

and

which iPad OS version is installed.

Eg: For iPad OS 15: Read PDF documents in Books on iPad – Apple Support

says:

In the Books app , you can open and save PDFs that you receive in Mail, Messages, and other apps.

And:

Tap the PDF attachment to open it, tap , then tap Books.

______________________________________________

Sorry I'm no expert, and have no access to an iPad with Chrome and Firefox to check:

Re: when I click on a pdf file, it goes into download

When viewing online in Safari, Firefox etc.,

seems the pdf files should simply be displaying online

unless you click to download it.

You might want to check the preferences for the app(s):

see what settings you have chosen (ticked) in Firefox and Chrome.

(You may be able to choose where to save downloads, and to open downloads automatically)

All the best :-)

Reply

Answer 2

Crush4 Author

Level 1

11 points

Mar 12, 2022 1:04 AM in response to Crush4

Hi,

Thank you for your response. My issue is not downloading the pdf, I can do that ok. There are some files that I’d just like to view without downloading and this is where it has changed for me. I’m using the latest version of iOS on a 9th generation iPad.

i can’t see anywhere in the settings that gives me option to make the selection you’ve suggested. I’ll keep looking but thanks for your response.

Reply

Answer 3

brbo

Level 8

38,569 points

Mar 12, 2022 2:32 PM in response to Crush4

You're welcome! Thank you for your thoughtful reply, and the clarification info.

For Firefox: Try going to Tools > Options > Applications >. and set the PDF to "always ask"

from this "Mozilla" discussion thread:

http://forums.mozillazine.org/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=2936867

All the best :-)

Reply

How to view PDF instead of download

Similar questions