PDF Opening Issues

How to Fix Acrobat Reader Not Opening PDFs on Android 15

Nimra Malik Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to locate and open transferred PDF files on a new Android 15 device, bypassing the changed storage permission settings.

How to Fix Acrobat Reader Not Opening PDFs on Android 15

Product: Adobe Acrobat Reader
Device & OS: Google Pixel 9 (Android 15)
Scenario: Accessing and opening PDF documents that were transferred from an older phone to a newly set up device.
Observed behavior: PDF files cannot be located or opened from within the app because the traditional 'Storage' permission option is missing in the Android 15 settings menu.

Before you start

Ensure your Adobe Acrobat Reader application is updated to the latest version via the Google Play Store, as older versions may not fully support Android 15's modernized file-access controls.

Solution 1Recommended

Open PDFs Directly Through the Android Files App

Bypass the app's internal file browser by using the native Android file manager to trigger the document opening process.

Android 15 introduces updated file-access controls that replace broad storage permissions. The easiest way to open your transferred documents is to initiate the action directly from your device's native file explorer.

Open the Files App

Locate and tap on the 'Files' app (often called 'Files by Google') from your app drawer or home screen on the Pixel 9.

Navigate to the Documents

Browse to the folder where your transferred files are saved, which is typically the 'Documents' or 'Downloads' directory.

Select the PDF File

Tap on the specific PDF file you wish to view.

Choose Adobe Acrobat Reader

When the 'Open with' prompt appears at the bottom of the screen, select 'Adobe Acrobat Reader' and tap 'Just once' or 'Always'.

Open PDFs Directly Through the Android Files App

Setting Default Apps: Selecting 'Always' will set Acrobat Reader as your default PDF viewer, streamlining this process for future files.

Solution 2

Use Acrobat Reader's Native System File Picker

Use the Android system file picker triggered from inside Acrobat Reader to locate files under the new privacy restrictions.

Powerful PDF Reader & Editor

Easily Open and Manage PDF Files on Android with WPS Office

Avoid Android storage permission headaches and easily locate, read, and manage all your transferred PDF files using WPS Office's highly compatible built-in PDF viewer.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office app from the Google Play Store.
2. Grant Necessary Access: Launch WPS Office and follow the on-screen prompts to grant standard file access permissions required for document management.
3. Scan for PDFs: Tap on 'PDF' or the 'Files' tab at the bottom navigation bar. WPS Office will automatically use compliant system methods to scan and display all PDFs on your device.
4. Open and Edit: Tap on any PDF document in the generated list to instantly open, read, or edit your file.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and standard PDF filesSeamlessly scans and reads files on Android 15 despite updated storage restrictionsBuilt-in PDF editor allows you to highlight, annotate, and digitally sign documentsFree, lightweight, and features an intuitive mobile interface

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I find the Storage permission for apps on Android 15?

Android 15 uses a modernized 'Scoped Storage' model. Instead of requesting a broad 'Storage' permission that accesses the entire file system, apps now use the Android system file picker or request access to specific media types. This gives users better privacy and control over their local files.

Where are files transferred from an old phone typically stored on a Google Pixel 9?

Files transferred via methods like Bluetooth, Quick Share, or a USB cable are typically saved in the 'Downloads' or 'Documents' folders. You can easily locate these by opening the 'Files by Google' app and browsing the respective categories.

Can I set a default app to automatically open PDF files on Android 15?

Yes. When you open a PDF file from your device's native Files app, an 'Open with' menu will appear. Select your preferred PDF reader (such as WPS Office or Acrobat Reader) and tap 'Always'. You can manage or clear these defaults later in your device Settings under Apps > Default apps.

PDF Troubleshooting