Fix Adobe Acrobat App Not Opening After iOS Update
Question details
The user is unable to open the Adobe Acrobat Reader app on their iPad after a recent iOS update.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- iOS 12
- Scenario
- Attempting to launch the Acrobat Reader application to view PDF files following a system or app update.
- Observed behavior
- The application displays a loading screen, immediately turns black, and completely closes. Standard troubleshooting like rebooting, reinstalling, and restoring the device fails to resolve the crash.
Before attempting to reinstall or reset applications on iOS, verify that your local PDF documents are safely synced or backed up to iCloud Drive, as deleting an app permanently removes its locally stored files.
Update Adobe Acrobat Reader via the App Store
Installing the latest software patch from the App Store is the primary method for resolving known compatibility issues and launch bugs introduced during OS updates.
Software developers frequently release minor patches to fix critical crashes that occur after major iOS system updates. A specific release (such as version 18.09.14 or newer) was deployed specifically to address the black screen and launch failure issue on iPads.
Navigate to your iPad's home screen and tap the App Store icon.
Tap on your Apple ID profile picture located in the top-right corner of the App Store screen.
Scroll down to the 'Available Updates' section. Locate Adobe Acrobat Reader in the list and tap the 'Update' button next to it. Wait for the installation to finish before attempting to launch the app again.
Recover Lost PDF Files from iCloud
If you previously uninstalled the application in an attempt to fix the crashing issue, you will need to retrieve your deleted local documents.
Use WPS Office as a Stable PDF Reader Alternative
If your current PDF reader continues to crash or experience compatibility issues on your iOS device, WPS Office provides a highly stable, lightweight, and free alternative. It seamlessly handles PDF viewing, editing, and annotating, while serving as a comprehensive suite for all your document needs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Search for WPS Office in the Apple App Store and tap 'Get' to install it on your iPad.
- 2. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office, navigate to the 'Files' tab, and select the PDF document you wish to read.
- 3. Utilize PDF tools: Use the bottom toolbar to access viewing modes, annotation tools, and PDF editing features instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF app close immediately after showing a black screen on my iPad?
This type of crash typically occurs due to a bug or compatibility issue between the app's current version and a recent iOS update. Developers usually release follow-up patches to fix these unexpected launch failures.
Will I lose my downloaded PDFs if I uninstall the app to fix the crash?
Yes, on Apple's iOS platform, deleting or uninstalling an application permanently removes its locally stored app data and documents. Always back up your files to iCloud Drive or an external service before uninstalling.
How do I force quit an app that is stuck on a black loading screen?
Swipe up from the bottom edge of your iPad screen and pause in the middle to open the App Switcher. Swipe right or left to find the unresponsive app, then swipe up on the app's preview card to close it completely.
