How to Send a PDF Through the Default Email App on Mac
Question details
The user needs to attach a PDF document directly to their default macOS email application rather than using online sharing or webmail.
- Product
- PDF Software
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Sharing a PDF file securely as an attachment via a local desktop email client.
- Observed behavior
- The user wants to bypass cloud sharing links and webmail prompts to use their system's default email app (like Outlook or Apple Mail).
Ensure your preferred desktop email client (such as Microsoft Outlook or Apple Mail) is correctly installed and set up with your email account on your Mac.
Use the Send by Email Feature
Trigger your default desktop email application directly from the PDF reader's toolbar to automatically attach the document.
Most modern PDF applications integrate directly with macOS to detect your system's default email client. You can use this integration to quickly attach your active document to a new message draft without manually saving and uploading the file.
Open your PDF file. Look for the 'Send by Email' or 'Share' icon, usually located in the upper-right area of the application toolbar.
Click the email icon. When prompted, choose your default desktop email application, such as Outlook or Apple Mail, from the provided list.
Configure Webmail as an Alternative
If you do not use a local desktop email client, you can add a webmail account directly within the PDF software.
Verify macOS Default Email Settings
If your preferred mail application isn't listed in the PDF software, check the system-level macOS settings to ensure it is set as the default.
Easily Share PDFs via Email with WPS Office for Mac
WPS Office provides a lightweight, all-in-one suite with an advanced PDF reader and editor tailored for Mac. It allows you to quickly share documents directly via your default email client with just a few clicks, ensuring smooth and secure file transfers.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for Mac from the official website.
- 2. Open the PDF File: Launch the WPS PDF tool and open the document you wish to send.
- 3. Share via Email: Click on the 'Menu' button, navigate to 'Share', and select 'Email'.
- 4. Send the Document: Your default macOS email application will automatically open a new message draft with your PDF attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't Outlook showing up as an option when I try to send a PDF?
Your macOS might still be recognizing Apple Mail as the default email client. Open the Apple Mail app, go to Settings > General, and change the 'Default email reader' to Microsoft Outlook.
Can I send a PDF link instead of attaching the actual file?
Yes. Most PDF applications feature a 'Share a Link' option in the sharing toolbar. This uploads your file to cloud storage and generates a viewable link, which is useful for sending large documents.
Is it possible to add multiple webmail accounts to my PDF app?
Yes, many PDF tools allow you to save multiple webmail configurations. When you use the 'Send by Email' tool, you can manage your accounts from a drop-down list and choose which one to use for each document.
