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How to Install a PDF Reader on an iPad Running iOS 10.3.1
Question details
The user wants to install a functional PDF reader application on an older iPad operating on iOS 10.3.1.
- Product
- PDF Reader for iOS
- Device & OS
- iPadOS / iOS 10.3.1
- Scenario
- Attempting to download a PDF reader from the App Store on an older iPad device where the newest app versions might no longer be supported.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs the proper steps to download the app and a workaround to obtain the last compatible version if the current release requires a newer iOS version.
Ensure your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and that you are signed into your Apple ID before accessing the App Store.
Download the App from the Apple App Store
Use the built-in App Store to search for and install the PDF reader, taking advantage of Apple's prompt to download older compatible versions.
Many app developers no longer support older operating systems like iOS 10.3.1. However, the Apple App Store has a built-in feature that allows users to download the last compatible version of an application, provided that version is still hosted on Apple's servers.
Tap the App Store icon on your iPad's home screen to launch the store.
Use the search bar located at the top right of the screen to search for a specific 'PDF Reader' app or 'WPS Office'.
Tap the 'Get' button or the cloud download icon next to the application. If prompted, confirm the action with your Apple ID password or Touch ID.
If an alert appears stating that the current version requires a newer iOS, simply tap 'Download' when asked if you want to download the last compatible version for your device.
Use WPS Office as Your Mobile PDF Reader
WPS Office provides a powerful, free PDF reader for your Apple devices. It allows you to view, annotate, and manage PDF files effortlessly, while also serving as a complete mobile office suite.
- 1. Search for WPS Office: Open the App Store on your iPad and search for WPS Office.
- 2. Install the Application: Tap the download icon and accept the prompt to download the last compatible version for your current iOS version.
- 3. Open Your PDF Files: Launch WPS Office, navigate to the 'Files' tab, and open any PDF document stored on your device or cloud drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the App Store doesn't offer the last compatible version?
If you don't see the prompt to download an older version, try downloading the app first on a newer Apple device using the exact same Apple ID. Once it is registered in your account's purchase history, go to your older iPad's App Store 'Purchased' section and tap the cloud icon to download it.
Can I read PDFs on an old iPad without downloading a new app?
Yes, iOS 10.3.1 has built-in support for viewing basic PDF files. You can open and read PDFs directly through the Safari browser, the default Mail app, or by saving them to iBooks (now Apple Books).
Why does my iPad say the app is incompatible?
App developers frequently update their applications to utilize new programming frameworks and features available only in newer iOS versions. When they do this, the newest update drops support for older operating systems like iOS 10.3.1, resulting in the incompatibility message.
