How to Replace Document Colors in Adobe Acrobat on iPad
Question details
The user is looking for the Replace Document Colors accessibility setting within the Adobe Acrobat app on an iPad to improve PDF readability.

- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to customize PDF background and text colors on an iPad for better visual accessibility and reduced eye strain.
- Observed behavior
- The Edit > Preferences > Accessibility > Replace Document Colors option, which is available on the desktop version, is currently unavailable in the iPad application.
Ensure you have access to a desktop computer (Windows or Mac) with Adobe Acrobat installed, as the specific accessibility feature you are looking for is currently limited to desktop platforms.
Use the Desktop Version of Adobe Acrobat
Since the iPad app does not support color replacement, switching to the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat is the most direct way to access this accessibility feature.
Adobe has not yet ported the full suite of accessibility features to its mobile applications. To utilize the Replace Document Colors function, you must open the document on a Windows or Mac computer.
Send or sync the PDF file from your iPad to your desktop computer using iCloud, a cloud storage service, or email.
Launch Adobe Acrobat on your desktop. Click on 'Edit' in the top menu bar (or 'Acrobat' on Mac) and select 'Preferences'.
Navigate to the 'Accessibility' category on the left sidebar. Check the box for 'Replace Document Colors' and customize your preferred background and document text colors, then click 'OK'.

Use iPadOS Built-in Accessibility Features
While the Acrobat app lacks native settings, you can use iPadOS system-wide accessibility features like Smart Invert to adjust how colors are displayed on your screen.
Submit a Feature Request to Adobe
Adobe relies on user feedback to prioritize updates. Submitting a formal request helps push for this accessibility tool in future iPad app releases.
Try WPS Office for Accessible and Comfortable PDF Reading
If you are frustrated by limited reading options in mobile PDF apps, WPS Office provides a robust, user-friendly alternative. It features built-in reading modes designed to reduce eye strain, alongside comprehensive editing tools without requiring complex system tweaks.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office from the Apple App Store on your iPad.
- 2. Open Your PDF: Launch the application and tap to open your PDF document.
- 3. Enable Eye Protection Mode: Tap the 'Tools' menu, navigate to the 'View' tab, and select 'Eye Protection Mode' or 'Night Mode' to adjust the background color for reading.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the PDF background color directly in the Acrobat iPad app?
No, Adobe Acrobat for iPad does not currently support the 'Replace Document Colors' accessibility feature found in the desktop version.
Will Adobe add the Replace Document Colors feature to iPadOS?
Adobe regularly updates its apps based on user feedback. You can submit a request through the Adobe Wish Form to let their development team know this specific accessibility feature is highly needed on mobile devices.
Are there alternative ways to read PDFs with dark backgrounds on an iPad?
Yes, you can use the iPad's system-wide Dark Mode or Smart Invert settings. Alternatively, you can use other PDF reader applications like WPS Office, which feature dedicated reading modes like Night Mode and Eye Protection.




