On iOS, you have the ability to sign PDFs with your signature and fill out forms. You can also perform some basic PDF editing functions such as locking, rotating, and inserting pages.
The features have been added to the Files app and will only become visible once you start editing a PDF. However, don’t expect extensive editing options like those available in apps like PDF Expert or PDF Pen.
Password protected PDF file
Just like on macOS, you can also lock a PDF file with a password on an iPhone or iPad. This function can be useful to protect, for example, a bank statement or other important documents from curious people.
To activate a password on a PDF file (lock) follow the steps below:
- Open the PDF file via the Files app
- Tap the share menu that appears at the bottom left of the screen.
- Select the ‘Lock PDF’ option from the share menu.
- Enter the password you want to use and verify it.
- Tap ‘Done’ to activate the password.
The moment you want to open the pdf file now you will be asked for the assigned password. If the password is correct the document will appear readable on the screen.
Edit PDF files
Via the Files app it is also possible to edit PDF files. Do not expect extensive functions such as , but basic functionality such as: inserting pages and rotating pages. To access the new editing functions, follow the steps below:
- Open the PDF file you want to edit in the Files app
- Now tilt your iPhone 90º into landscape mode.
- On the left side of the screen you will see an overview of page thumbnails, select the page you want to edit.
- Hold your finger on the three dots to open a context menu that gives you access to editing options.
- Select one of the operations: rotate left or right, insert blank page, add pages from file, add scanned page, and delete page.
When adding a page, you have three options. You can add a page from another file or using the camera of your iPhone or iPad. The last option guides you to make a good scan of a document with the camera.
If you choose to add a blank page, you will see the drawing tools for markup on the screen. You can then create a drawing or handwritten note with the drawing pen, highlighter or pencil.