Why Adobe Acrobat DC Cannot Upgrade to the 2018 Version
Question details
Users are unable to upgrade their Adobe Acrobat DC software to the 2018 version due to differences in product release tracks.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat DC
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to update or upgrade an existing installation of Adobe Acrobat DC to the 2018 release.
- Observed behavior
- The upgrade process is blocked or unavailable because the user's software is on the classic track, which lacks the upgrade path to newer subscription releases.
Verify your current Adobe Acrobat DC license type in your account settings to determine whether you are enrolled in the classic track or the continuous subscription track.
Switch to the Acrobat Subscription Track
To access the 2018 release and newer updates, you must migrate from the classic track to an active Adobe Acrobat subscription.
Acrobat DC is distributed through two main product tracks: Classic and Continuous (Subscription). The Classic track only receives minor updates and security patches, whereas the Continuous track receives major new features like the 2018 release.
Go to the Adobe website and sign in to your Adobe account or Adobe Admin Console using your organizational credentials.
Navigate to the 'Plans' or 'Licensing' section to check your current Document Cloud product track status.
Select the option to upgrade or switch your license from the classic version to a continuous subscription plan, subject to your organization's licensing terms.
Once the subscription is active, download the new installer from your Adobe account dashboard and install the updated 2018 release.
Edit and Manage PDFs Easily with WPS Office
If you are stuck on older software versions due to complicated licensing tracks, try WPS Office. It includes a robust, built-in PDF editor alongside word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations, making document management seamless.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website, download the installer, and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the suite on your device.
- 2. Open Your PDF: Launch WPS Office, click on 'Open' in the home screen, and select the PDF document you need to view or modify.
- 3. Access PDF Editing Tools: Navigate to the 'PDF' tab at the top ribbon to access powerful tools for highlighting, editing text, adding signatures, or converting the file to Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Acrobat's classic and continuous tracks?
The classic track provides major updates less frequently and does not include new feature rollouts between major releases. The continuous (subscription) track delivers new features, improvements, and updates regularly.
Can I upgrade my classic track without buying a subscription?
No, the classic track does not offer a direct, free upgrade path to subscription-only releases like the 2018 version. Accessing these features requires purchasing or switching to a subscription plan.
How do I check which track of Acrobat DC I am currently using?
Open Adobe Acrobat DC, go to the 'Help' menu at the top, and select 'About Adobe Acrobat Pro DC'. The version number displayed in the popup will indicate whether your installation is Classic or Continuous.
