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How to Access Annotation Tools and Open Multiple PDF Tabs on iPad
Question details
Users want to place highlight and underline tools directly in the iPad PDF reader toolbar for quick access with an Apple Pencil, and need a way to open multiple PDF tabs simultaneously.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Reading, studying, and annotating PDF books or documents on an iPad using a stylus or Apple Pencil.
- Observed behavior
- Highlight and underline tools are not separated in the main toolbar and lack customization options. Additionally, the app defaults to opening only one PDF at a time instead of offering a multi-tab reading experience.
Ensure your iPad is updated to the latest version of iPadOS and check if your PDF reader app has pending updates in the App Store, as interface options and multitasking capabilities frequently change.
Use iPad Split View to Open Multiple PDFs
If your current PDF app doesn't support multiple tabs natively, you can use the built-in iPadOS Split View feature to view two PDF documents side-by-side.
While some PDF readers on iPad restrict you to one active document, you can leverage iPadOS multitasking features to read two documents at once. This is especially useful for referencing multiple textbooks stored in iCloud Files.
Launch your preferred PDF app and open your first document.
Tap the three dots (Multitasking button) located at the top center of your iPad screen.
Tap the 'Split View' option (the middle icon). Your current app will move to the side.
Tap the Files app or your PDF app again from the Home Screen or Dock, and select the second PDF document to open it alongside the first one.
Use Default Annotation Menu and Submit a Feature Request
Since customizing the left-side toolbar is currently limited in some popular PDF apps, use the default floating comment tools and submit feedback to the developers.
Use WPS Office for Multi-Tab PDF Reading and Easy Annotations
WPS Office for iPad offers a built-in multi-tab interface for PDFs, allowing you to switch between multiple books or documents effortlessly. It also provides highly accessible annotation menus tailored for seamless Apple Pencil workflows.
- 1. Install the app: Download and open WPS Office from the App Store on your iPad.
- 2. Open your first document: Tap 'Files' within the app and select your first PDF document from your local storage or iCloud.
- 3. Open additional tabs: To open another PDF, simply tap the '+' icon or return to the file browser and open a new document; it will automatically appear as a new tab at the top of your screen.
- 4. Annotate easily: Tap the 'Annotation' tab on the top toolbar to instantly access Highlight and Underline tools for your Apple Pencil without digging through hidden menus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize the toolbar in Adobe Acrobat for iPad?
Currently, Adobe Acrobat for iPad does not allow users to fully customize individual tools or permanently detach the Highlight and Underline tools to the main left-side toolbar. You must access them via the standard Comment or Annotation menus.
How do I open more than one PDF at a time on an iPad?
If your app does not support tabs natively, you can use the iPadOS Split View feature to open two PDFs side-by-side. Alternatively, you can use a multi-tab supported app like WPS Office, which lets you open multiple documents in a top tab bar.
Does iCloud Files support opening multiple PDF tabs?
The native iCloud Files previewer typically opens one file at a time. To manage multiple PDF tabs effectively, it is recommended to open your iCloud files within a dedicated PDF reader app that features a tabbed interface.
Are highlight and underline tools compatible with Apple Pencil?
Yes, most standard PDF readers automatically detect the Apple Pencil. Once you select the highlight or underline tool from the app's annotation menu, you can accurately mark up text directly on your iPad screen.
