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How to Fix Flattened Copy Issue in Adobe Acrobat
Question details
Users are unable to send a flattened copy of a PDF in Adobe Acrobat version 21.06.00, even when the flattened setting is enabled.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to share or email a flattened PDF document containing annotations or form fields.
- Observed behavior
- The application fails to send the flattened copy, ignoring the user's enabled flattened setting.
Ensure that you have saved any recent edits or form entries to your PDF before attempting to share a flattened copy to prevent data loss.
Use the Print and Zoom Workaround to Share a Flattened PDF
Since the built-in flatten setting is currently bugged in version 21.06.00, you can bypass it using the system's print preview dialog to manually generate and share a flattened document.
This method utilizes multi-touch gestures available on mobile and tablet versions of the application. By zooming out on the print preview, the operating system effectively renders a flattened image of the document which can then be shared directly.
Open your PDF document in Adobe Acrobat, tap the menu icon, and select the 'Print' option.
On the print preview screen, place two fingers on the document preview and pinch inwards to zoom out.
Tap the 'Share' button that appears at the top of the screen after zooming out.
Select your preferred email client or messaging application from the share sheet to send the newly generated flattened copy.
Easily Flatten and Share PDFs with WPS Office
Avoid version bugs and easily share flattened, secure PDF documents using WPS Office's built-in PDF editor. It provides a seamless, bug-free experience for handling annotations, form fields, and document sharing.
- 1. Open PDF in WPS Office: Launch the WPS Office application and open your PDF document.
- 2. Access Export Options: Navigate to the Tools menu and select the 'Share' or 'Export to PDF' feature.
- 3. Select Flatten Options: Choose the specific option to flatten annotations and form fields before sharing.
- 4. Send Document: Select your email client to instantly share the flattened and secured PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to flatten a PDF copy?
Flattening a PDF merges interactive elements like annotations, form fields, and digital signatures directly into the background of the document. This prevents further editing and ensures the document's appearance remains identical across all viewing devices.
Why is the flatten setting not working in Adobe Acrobat version 21.06.00?
This is a known software glitch specific to version 21.06.00 where the application fails to execute the flatten command during the share process. Until an official patch is released, users must rely on workarounds like the print preview method.
Can I flatten a PDF on a desktop computer if the mobile app fails?
Yes. On a desktop computer, you can use the 'Print to PDF' feature within your PDF viewer to create a brand new, flattened version of your document, which you can then save and manually attach to an email.
