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OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Mobile App Not Uploading PDF Files

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to upload PDF files to a shared folder using the OneDrive mobile app, as the 'New' button only displays an option to create a new folder.

Product
OneDrive Mobile App
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Attempting to upload a PDF file to a folder shared by another user via the OneDrive mobile app after a recent software update.
Observed behavior
The file upload option is missing from the 'New' menu; the app restricts the user to only creating new folders within the shared directory.
Before you start

Verify that your internet connection is stable and double-check with the folder owner that you still have explicit 'Edit' permissions for the shared directory.

Solution 1Recommended

Upload the PDF via OneDrive Web

Bypass mobile app glitches by using the web version of OneDrive to upload your PDF file directly into the shared folder.

Sometimes, recent mobile app updates introduce temporary bugs that restrict upload functionalities in shared directories. The web version of OneDrive often remains unaffected by these mobile-specific bugs.

1
Access OneDrive Web

Open a mobile web browser (like Safari or Chrome) on your device, navigate to the OneDrive website, and log in with your Microsoft account.

2
Navigate to the Shared Folder

Tap on the 'Shared' tab on the left sidebar, locate the folder shared by the other user, and open it.

3
Upload the PDF

Tap the 'Upload' button at the top of the interface, select 'Files', and choose the PDF document from your phone's local storage to complete the upload.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my OneDrive mobile app only show a 'New Folder' option?

This commonly happens after a recent app update or due to synchronization errors regarding folder permissions. When the app cannot properly verify your 'edit' permissions for a shared folder, it restricts file uploads as a security measure, leaving only local folder creation available.

Can I upload files to a shared OneDrive folder directly from my phone?

Yes, as long as the folder owner has granted you editing permissions. If the mobile app is malfunctioning, you can bypass the application entirely by logging into your OneDrive account through a mobile web browser and uploading from there.

How do I check if I have permission to upload to a OneDrive shared folder?

Navigate to the 'Shared' section in OneDrive and look at the folder details. If you only have 'View' access, the upload button will be missing entirely. You must ask the folder owner to modify your sharing link to include 'Edit' access.

Are PDF files supported for upload in the OneDrive mobile app?

Yes, the OneDrive mobile app fully supports uploading, viewing, and storing PDF files in both personal and shared folders, provided there are no active permission restrictions or storage limits.