File Sharing Problems

How to Move or Copy PDFs from iPad to Dropbox using Acrobat Reader

Olivia MillerOlivia Miller Oct 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to transfer or upload PDF files from the local device storage on an iPad to a Dropbox cloud account.

How to Move or Copy PDFs from Your iPad to Dropbox
Product
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Device & OS
iPadOS
Scenario
Managing local PDF files and uploading them to a cloud storage service like Dropbox using an iPad.
Observed behavior
The user wants to establish a clear workflow to move or copy PDFs originating from 'My Device' directly into their Dropbox account.
Before you start

Ensure that the official Dropbox app is installed on your iPad and that you are actively logged into your Dropbox account.

Solution 1Recommended

Transfer PDFs Using the 'Share a Copy' Feature

Use the built-in sharing capabilities of Adobe Acrobat Reader to upload a copy of your PDF directly to Dropbox.

This method involves using the native sharing menu within the iOS environment, allowing Acrobat Reader to send the file directly to the Dropbox app. It will create a copy in the cloud while keeping the original on your iPad.

1
Open the PDF File

Launch the Adobe Acrobat Reader app on your iPad. Navigate to 'My Device' and tap to open the PDF file you wish to transfer.

2
Tap the Share Icon

Locate the 'Share' icon (a square with an upward pointing arrow) in the top navigation bar and tap on it.

3
Select 'Share a Copy'

Scroll to the bottom of the sharing pane and choose the 'Share a Copy' option to generate a standalone file for upload.

4
Choose Dropbox as Destination

In the iOS share sheet that appears, look for the Dropbox app icon and select it. If you do not see it, scroll to the far right, tap 'More', and select Dropbox from the list.

5
Save to a Folder

Choose your preferred destination folder within the Dropbox interface and tap 'Save' to complete the upload process.

Transfer PDFs Using the 'Share a Copy' Feature
Transfer Successful: Once the upload finishes, the PDF will immediately sync across all devices connected to your Dropbox account.
Seamless PDF Management

Easily Manage and Sync PDFs to the Cloud with WPS Office

WPS Office for iPad offers a comprehensive PDF reader and editor that seamlessly integrates with third-party cloud services. You can directly connect your Dropbox account to WPS Office, allowing you to open, edit, and automatically sync your PDFs without needing to manually share copies.

  1. 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the Apple App Store and launch the application on your iPad.
  2. 2. Connect Your Dropbox Account: Navigate to the 'Cloud' tab within the WPS Office app, select 'Add Cloud Storage', and log into your Dropbox account.
  3. 3. Manage Files Directly: Open any local PDF file from your iPad, and use the 'Save As' or 'Move' function to save it directly into your linked Dropbox folders without leaving the app.
Directly link your Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive for automated syncing.Fully compatible with standard Adobe PDF files and Microsoft Office documents.Lightweight, fast, and highly optimized for iPadOS.Built-in PDF annotation, highlighting, and signing tools completely free to use.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move multiple PDFs from my iPad to Dropbox at once?

Yes. Instead of using Acrobat Reader, open the native Apple 'Files' app, navigate to 'On My iPad', tap 'Select' to choose multiple PDFs, tap the folder icon, and choose your Dropbox folder to move them all simultaneously.

Why isn't Dropbox showing up in my iPad share menu?

Make sure the Dropbox app is installed and you are logged in. When the share menu opens, swipe left on the row of apps, tap 'More' (the three dots), tap 'Edit' at the top right, and toggle the switch next to Dropbox to make it visible.

Does sharing a copy remove the original PDF from my iPad?

No. Using the 'Share a Copy' feature simply creates a duplicate of the file and uploads it to Dropbox. Your original PDF will remain intact on your iPad's local storage under 'My Device'.