How to Create and Merge PDFs in Microsoft 365 Desktop and Mobile
Question details
The user wants to create PDFs from images and merge multiple PDF files using Microsoft 365.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- Desktop and Mobile
- Scenario
- Compiling multiple images or PDF documents into a single PDF file.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft 365 mobile app supports quick PDF creation and merging, but these native features are difficult to find or missing in the desktop applications.
Verify whether you are trying to merge PDFs on a mobile device or a desktop PC, as Microsoft 365 offers completely different built-in PDF capabilities depending on your platform.
Use the Microsoft 365 Mobile App (iOS/Android)
For mobile users, Microsoft 365 includes built-in tools to easily scan, create, and combine PDFs.
Launch the Microsoft 365 application on your smartphone or tablet.
Tap on the 'Apps' or 'Actions' icon located at the bottom right of the screen.
Choose 'Pictures to PDF' to create a new PDF from images, or select 'Document to PDF'. Depending on your app version, tap the dedicated 'Merge PDFs' option if you already have multiple PDF files.
Select the files you wish to combine, arrange their order, and tap 'Save' to store the compiled PDF on your device.
Use a Third-Party PDF Merger on Desktop
Since Microsoft 365 desktop apps lack native PDF merging tools, using a dedicated Microsoft Store app or third-party PDF editor is the most effective solution.
Easily Create, Edit, and Merge PDFs on Desktop with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by the lack of native PDF merging tools in Microsoft 365 desktop apps, WPS Office provides a powerful, all-in-one alternative. It features a comprehensive built-in PDF toolkit that lets you merge files directly on your PC.
- 1. Launch WPS Office: Open the WPS Office desktop application and click on the 'PDF' tab located on the left side of the home screen.
- 2. Select Merge PDF: In the PDF tools menu, click on the 'Merge PDF' icon to open the combination utility.
- 3. Add Files: Click 'Add Files' and select the PDFs or images you wish to combine from your computer.
- 4. Combine and Save: Reorder the files as needed, set your output name and destination, and click 'Merge' to generate your compiled PDF immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why can I merge PDFs on the Microsoft 365 mobile app but not on my PC?
The Microsoft 365 mobile app was designed as an all-in-one hub optimized for quick, on-the-go tasks, including PDF scanning and merging. In contrast, the desktop suite relies on individual, specialized apps (like Word or Excel) which can export to PDF but lack a dedicated, centralized PDF management tool.
Can I merge multiple PDFs using Microsoft Word on my computer?
Technically, yes, but it is a workaround. You can open multiple PDFs in Word (which converts them into editable text documents), manually copy and paste the contents into a single new document, and then 'Save As' a PDF. However, this process often disrupts the original layout and formatting.
Are there free desktop alternatives for merging PDFs without using an online converter?
Yes. You can download free utilities from the Microsoft Store, or you can switch to an all-in-one suite like WPS Office, which includes a robust, built-in PDF editor that handles merging, splitting, and editing directly on your desktop without requiring an internet connection.




