Other PDF Issues

How to Open Embedded PDF Audio and Video Files in Acrobat Reader Mobile

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to play or open embedded audio and video files within a PDF document using the mobile version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.

How to Open Embedded PDF Audio and Video Files in Acrobat Reader Mobile

Product: Adobe Acrobat Reader Mobile
Device & OS: iPhone, iPad, or other mobile devices
Scenario: Attempting to view or listen to multimedia attachments embedded inside a PDF file on a mobile device.
Observed behavior: The embedded audio and video files fail to open or play because the mobile application does not currently support multimedia playback.

Before you start

Verify that your PDF document actually contains embedded media files, and ensure you have access to a desktop computer (Windows or Mac), as it will be required to play the media.

Solution 1Recommended

Open the PDF in the Desktop Application

Since the mobile app does not support embedded media playback, switching to a desktop computer is the official and most reliable way to access your files.

Working with PDFs that contain embedded interactive video or audio content is currently supported only in the desktop versions of PDF readers. Transferring the document to your computer will resolve the limitation.

Transfer the PDF file

Send the PDF file from your mobile device to your Mac or Windows PC using email, a cloud storage service, or a direct file transfer method.

Launch desktop software

Open the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader on your computer.

Play the media

Open the transferred PDF document, locate the embedded audio or video file on the page, and click on it to begin playback.

Desktop Requirement: Make sure your desktop computer has its audio drivers updated and speakers enabled to hear the embedded sound files properly.

Solution 2

Submit a Feature Request for Mobile Multimedia Support

If you frequently need mobile support for embedded media, you can submit official feedback to the development team to prioritize this feature.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I play video in a PDF on my iPhone or iPad?

Currently, mobile PDF readers like Acrobat Reader Mobile do not support the playback of embedded rich media files. This functional limitation applies to both iOS and Android platforms.

Is there any mobile app that reliably plays embedded PDF videos?

Most standard mobile PDF readers struggle with embedded interactive media due to mobile operating system constraints. For guaranteed playback, viewing the PDF on a desktop OS (Windows or macOS) is strongly recommended.

How do I extract a video or audio file from a PDF?

To extract an embedded media file, open the PDF in a capable desktop PDF editor, right-click the video or audio attachment, and select the option to 'Save As' or 'Export' the file to your computer's local storage.

PDF Troubleshooting