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Fix PDF Search Keyboard Not Showing in Microsoft 365 for Android

Phi Hung Vo Oct 9, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to type in the PDF search bar because the on-screen keyboard does not appear when accessing the search function.

How to Fix PDF Search Keyboard Not Showing in Microsoft 365 for Android

Product: Microsoft 365 App
Device & OS: Android (Samsung)
Scenario: Searching for specific text within a PDF document using the Microsoft 365 mobile app.
Observed behavior: The Search function opens successfully in the PDF viewer, but the device keyboard fails to display on the screen, preventing the user from entering search terms.

Before you start

Ensure your device is connected to the internet to check for system updates, and save any ongoing work in other applications before force-closing the Microsoft 365 app.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Software and Restart the App

Installing the latest updates for your app, OS, and keyboard often resolves device-specific display glitches.

Software bugs related to UI rendering are frequently patched in newer versions. Ensuring that your Microsoft 365 app, Android OS, and default keyboard are all up to date is the most effective first step.

Update Microsoft 365

Open the Google Play Store, search for Microsoft 365, and tap 'Update' if a newer version is available.

Update Android OS

Navigate to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for and apply any pending system updates for your device.

Update Your Keyboard

Check for updates for your default keyboard (such as Samsung Keyboard or Gboard) in the Google Play Store or Galaxy Store.

Force Close and Reopen

Go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft 365, tap 'Force stop', and then relaunch the app to test the PDF search function again.

Quick Tip: Restarting your phone after updating these three components can help clear any lingering graphical bugs.

Solution 2

Clear Microsoft 365 App Cache

Clearing temporary files can fix underlying UI bugs that prevent the keyboard from triggering properly.

Solution 3

Report the Issue to Microsoft Support

If the keyboard issue persists on specific devices like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or A52s, reporting it helps developers issue a targeted patch.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Search PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office on Android

If Microsoft 365 continues to experience keyboard glitches on your Android device, switch to WPS Office. It provides a robust, lightweight, and completely free PDF reader with a highly reliable search tool optimized for all smartphone models.

1. Download WPS Office: Install WPS Office for free from the Google Play Store.
2. Open Your Document: Launch the app and tap 'Open' to select your PDF file.
3. Search Without Glitches: Tap the search icon in the top menu to instantly bring up the keyboard and find your text.

Flawless PDF search, reading, and editing without keyboard display bugs.Fully compatible with all Microsoft Office file formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).Lightweight architecture ensures fast performance on any Android device.Free to download with an intuitive, mobile-friendly user interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the keyboard disappear only in the Microsoft 365 PDF viewer?

This typically happens due to a compatibility bug between the Microsoft 365 app's specific PDF rendering engine and the native Android keyboard version running on certain Samsung devices.

Can I use a third-party keyboard to bypass this issue?

Yes, changing your default keyboard in the Android device settings (for example, switching from Samsung Keyboard to Google's Gboard) can often bypass the glitch and allow you to type in the search bar.

Will clearing the Microsoft 365 app cache delete my saved documents?

No. Clearing the app cache only removes temporary graphical files used to speed up the app's loading times. Your saved documents, settings, and logged-in cloud accounts will remain completely intact.

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