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How to Fix PDF Text Displaying Incorrectly in iOS Acrobat Reader
Question details
Users are experiencing corrupted text, missing images, and random symbols when opening PDF files.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- iOS
- Scenario
- Opening specific PDF documents in the Acrobat Reader app immediately following an iOS system update.
- Observed behavior
- The PDF displays random letters on a blank page instead of rendering the correct text, images, and formulas.
Ensure your iOS device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and that you have your Apple ID credentials ready before updating applications from the App Store.
Update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the Latest Version
Updating the app to version 18.10.02 or later introduces necessary bug fixes that resolve iOS compatibility and text rendering issues.
System updates can sometimes create compatibility glitches with older app versions. Adobe regularly releases patches to address rendering bugs on new iOS versions.
Locate and tap the App Store icon on your iOS device's home screen.
Tap on your Apple ID profile icon located at the top right corner of the screen to view your account details and pending updates.
Scroll down to the 'Available Updates' section. Find Adobe Acrobat Reader and tap the 'Update' button next to it. Wait for the download and installation to complete.
Launch the newly updated Acrobat Reader app and open the PDF file again to verify that the text, images, and formulas render correctly.
Force Restart Your iOS Device
A force restart clears the temporary memory and system cache, which can resolve temporary graphical glitches.
View and Edit PDFs Flawlessly with WPS Office
If your current PDF reader struggles with text rendering or compatibility issues after an iOS update, WPS Office provides a highly stable PDF viewing and editing experience. It handles complex texts, high-resolution images, and intricate formulas seamlessly on any device.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Search for WPS Office in the iOS App Store and download the application for free.
- 2. Launch the app: Open WPS Office and tap on the 'Files' tab at the bottom navigation menu.
- 3. Locate your document: Navigate to the folder, local storage, or connected cloud drive where your affected PDF is saved.
- 4. Open and read: Tap the PDF file to open it. WPS Office will process and display the text and images accurately without rendering bugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF show random symbols instead of text?
This typically occurs due to missing embedded fonts, font encoding errors, or a temporary compatibility glitch between the PDF viewer app and the device's operating system following a software update.
Will reinstalling the Acrobat Reader app fix the blank page issue?
Yes, uninstalling the app and then downloading the latest version from the App Store clears potentially corrupted cache files and installs the newest bug fixes for accurate text rendering.
How can I view my PDF if Acrobat Reader still fails to display it correctly?
You can use an alternative robust application like WPS Office, Apple Books, or the native iOS Files app preview to open the document and ensure the file itself is not permanently corrupted.
What should I do if the PDF file is still showing random letters in all apps?
If the document fails to display correctly in multiple apps, the file itself is likely corrupted or improperly exported. You will need to request a new copy from the sender or re-download it from the original source.
