How to Edit and Sync OneDrive PDFs on iPad
Question details
The user wants to annotate PDF files stored in OneDrive using an Apple Pencil on an iPad, and needs the edits to synchronize automatically without manually exporting and importing the files.

- Product
- OneDrive, Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- iPad
- Scenario
- Annotating and syncing PDF files stored in cloud storage on a tablet device.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires a streamlined workflow where edits made with an Apple Pencil are automatically saved and synced back to OneDrive.
Ensure your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network so that your annotations can sync to OneDrive seamlessly in real time.
Use Adobe Acrobat to Edit and Sync OneDrive PDFs
Adobe Acrobat natively supports opening and syncing files directly from OneDrive, making it easy to save your Apple Pencil annotations automatically.
By connecting your OneDrive account directly within the Adobe Acrobat app, you bypass the need to download and re-upload files. Any edits you make are synced directly back to the cloud.
Download Adobe Acrobat from the App Store on your iPad and launch the application.
Navigate to the 'Files' or 'Locations' tab, tap on 'Add Location', select 'OneDrive', and sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
Browse your OneDrive folders within Acrobat and tap on the PDF file you wish to edit.
Use your Apple Pencil to annotate the document. Once finished, simply tap the back arrow or close the document; changes will automatically synchronize to your OneDrive.

Use WPS Office for iPad for Advanced PDF Annotation
If you find standard PDF editors lacking in Apple Pencil features, WPS Office offers a robust PDF editor for iPad that integrates seamlessly with cloud drives like OneDrive. It provides comprehensive Apple Pencil support for a better note-taking experience while ensuring your edits are saved and synced automatically.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office from the iPad App Store and open the application.
- 2. Connect OneDrive: Go to the 'Open' tab, select 'Add Cloud Storage', and log in to your OneDrive account.
- 3. Open Your PDF: Navigate through your OneDrive directory within WPS Office and tap to open your target PDF file.
- 4. Annotate with Apple Pencil: Select the PDF annotation tools and use your Apple Pencil to highlight, write, and draw on the document.
- 5. Save and Sync: Tap the 'Save' icon when you are done. Your annotated PDF will automatically sync directly back to your OneDrive.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the native Apple Files app to edit OneDrive PDFs?
Yes, you can access your OneDrive files through the native Apple Files app and use the built-in Markup tool with your Apple Pencil. However, some users occasionally experience syncing delays or conflicts requiring manual saving, depending on the network connection.
Why are my PDF edits not syncing back to OneDrive immediately?
Syncing delays can be caused by an unstable internet connection, the editing app lacking background refresh permissions, or a large file size. Ensure you are connected to a strong Wi-Fi network and check your iPad settings to allow the app to refresh in the background.
Are there other iPad apps that offer better Apple Pencil tools for PDFs without breaking the sync?
Yes, apps like WPS Office allow you to connect directly to your OneDrive account, providing a much richer set of Apple Pencil tools than basic readers, while still maintaining the automatic cloud synchronization.




