Fix iOS Update Removing Create Link Sharing Option for PDFs
Question details
Users are unable to use the Create Link feature to share PDFs via email or other apps following a recent software update.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- iOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to generate a link to share a PDF document using the iOS share sheet.
- Observed behavior
- The 'Create Link' option fails to open the iOS share-app selection window, and the generated link is completely unavailable for copying or pasting.
Ensure your iPhone or iPad has an active, stable internet connection, as cloud sharing features require network access to successfully generate and retrieve links.
Use the General Share Menu to Copy the Link
Bypass the dedicated 'Create Link' button by utilizing the standard iOS Share menu, which typically retains access to link generation and sharing options.
When specific UI buttons fail due to a software regression, the native app sharing protocol often remains functional. Using the general Share option forces the app to call the standard iOS share sheet.
Launch the Acrobat app and open the PDF file you wish to share.
Locate and tap the general 'Share' icon (a square with an upward arrow) in the top or bottom navigation bar, avoiding the 'Create Link' specific button.
Once the iOS share sheet appears, select 'Copy Link' to save the URL to your clipboard, or tap the 'Mail' icon to automatically paste the link into a new email.
Update Apps and iOS Firmware
Ensure that both your PDF reader app and your iOS operating system are fully up to date to patch known bugs.
Report the Regression Bug to Support
If the issue persists despite workarounds, report it directly so the development team can address the iOS regression in the next patch.
Easily Share PDFs via Link with WPS Office on iOS
Avoid broken sharing options and UI glitches. WPS Office offers a highly reliable, built-in PDF reader for iOS that allows you to effortlessly generate cloud links and share your documents through standard iOS share sheets.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and launch WPS Office from the iOS App Store.
- 2. Open your PDF: Navigate to 'Files' within the app and open your desired PDF document.
- 3. Tap Share: Tap the 'Share' icon located at the bottom of the screen.
- 4. Select Share as Link: Choose 'Share as Link'. The app will instantly generate a URL and smoothly open the iOS share sheet.
- 5. Distribute the Link: Select 'Copy Link', 'Mail', or your preferred messaging app to distribute the document seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the 'Create Link' button stop working after an update?
App updates can sometimes introduce unintentional bugs, known as regressions, where compatibility with the native iOS share sheet breaks temporarily until a hotfix is released.
Can I still share my PDF if the link option is missing?
Yes. Instead of creating a link, you can share the PDF directly as a file attachment. Choose the 'Send a Copy' or equivalent attachment option in your share menu.
Does generating a PDF link upload my file to the cloud?
Yes. When you use a 'Create Link' or 'Share Link' feature, the application uploads the document to its respective cloud service to generate an accessible URL for the recipient.
How do I force the iOS share sheet to appear?
Restarting your iOS device or entirely closing and reopening the app can resolve underlying temporary UI glitches preventing the share sheet from loading properly.
