Other PDF Issues

Fix Adobe Reader for iOS Keyboard Navigation Arrows Not Working

Huda Qurayshi Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users are unable to navigate PDF documents using keyboard arrows in Adobe Reader for iOS when connected to a Bluetooth keyboard or Apple keyboard cover.

How to Fix Adobe Reader for iOS Keyboard Navigation Arrows Not Working

Product: Adobe Reader
Device & OS: iOS 15.2 / iOS 15.2.1
Scenario: Reading PDF documents using an external keyboard (Bluetooth or Apple keyboard cover) on an iPhone or iPad.
Observed behavior: The navigation arrows fail to scroll or turn pages in the document after an app update to version 21.11.00.

Before you start

Ensure your iOS device is sufficiently charged and your Bluetooth keyboard or Apple keyboard cover is properly paired and connected in the Bluetooth settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Update iOS and the Adobe Reader App

Installing the latest updates for both your operating system and the app often resolves compatibility bugs introduced in previous versions.

Update iOS software

Open your device Settings, navigate to 'General', and tap 'Software Update'. If an iOS update is available, download and install it.

Update Adobe Reader

Open the App Store on your iOS device, tap your profile icon at the top right, scroll down to check for pending updates, and tap the 'Update' button next to Adobe Reader.

Restart and test

Restart your iPad or iPhone, ensure your external keyboard is connected, open a PDF document in Adobe Reader, and test the navigation arrows.

Solution 2

Report the Issue with Device Details to Support

If software updates do not restore keyboard navigation, reporting your exact device configuration helps developers patch the bug in future releases.

Read PDFs Smoothly on iOS

Navigate PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office for iOS

If you continue experiencing external keyboard compatibility bugs in your current PDF app, switch to WPS Office. It offers robust native support for Bluetooth keyboards and Apple keyboard covers, ensuring smooth page navigation on your iPhone and iPad.

1. Download the app: Search for WPS Office in the Apple App Store and download it directly to your iOS device.
2. Import your PDFs: Open WPS Office and import your PDF documents directly from your local storage, iCloud, or other cloud drives.
3. Connect your keyboard: Ensure your Apple keyboard cover or external Bluetooth keyboard is actively connected to your device.
4. Navigate smoothly: Open any PDF file within WPS Office and instantly use your keyboard arrow keys to comfortably scroll and turn pages.

Native support for Apple keyboard covers and standard Bluetooth keyboardsSeamless PDF viewing, editing, and professional annotation toolsHigh compatibility with standard Adobe PDF document formatsLightweight, fast, and completely free to download on the App Store

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my keyboard arrows suddenly stop working in Adobe Reader on iOS?

This is typically caused by a software bug introduced during a recent app update or iOS system update. App developers frequently release minor patch updates to fix these external hardware compatibility issues.

How do I check my Adobe Reader version on my iPad or iPhone?

Open the Adobe Reader app, tap on your profile icon or the Settings gear icon, and select 'About Adobe Acrobat' to view the specific version installed on your device.

Can I use external keyboards to navigate PDFs natively on an iPad?

Yes, most modern PDF readers support external keyboards like the Apple Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio, or third-party Bluetooth keyboards for scrolling and page turning, provided the app is optimized for them.

What should I do if updating doesn't fix the iOS keyboard issue?

You can try uninstalling and reinstalling the app to clear any corrupted local data. If the problem persists, consider using an alternative PDF reader like WPS Office, which natively supports seamless iOS keyboard navigation.

PDF Troubleshooting