# A Focus on Enhancing Viewing and Sharing: Google’s New PDF Viewer in Files by Google
Google consistently enhances its applications to improve user experience, and the recent update to the **Files by Google** app is a prime example. The app is introducing a completely reimagined PDF viewer aimed at delivering a more fluid and user-friendly method to view, share, and handle PDF files. This update replaces the earlier PDF viewer, which was connected to Google Drive, with a bespoke solution specifically tailored for the Files by Google app. Here’s all you need to know about this thrilling enhancement.
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## **What’s Different in the PDF Viewer?**
The new PDF viewer in Files by Google comes with a variety of upgrades that facilitate interaction with PDF files. Below are the main features:
1. **Tailored PDF Viewer**: In contrast to the former viewer, which depended on Google Drive, the new viewer is seamlessly embedded into the Files by Google app. This change removes the necessity to toggle between applications, offering a more unified experience.
2. **Improved Options for Sharing and Starring**: The revamped interface simplifies the process of sharing documents or marking them as favorites (starred). These features are now easily accessible, allowing users to perform actions quickly without having to navigate through numerous menus.
3. **Updated Overflow Menu**: The refreshed overflow menu introduces numerous new functionalities, such as:
– **Use as**
– **Open with**
– **Move to Trash**
– **Move to Safe Folder**
– **File Info**
– **Find in File**
– **Print**
– And many more.
These enhancements greatly facilitate the management of your PDF files directly within the application.
4. **Markup and Google Lens Features**: The markup button has been revamped for easier access, and certain files now include a **Google Lens** button. This enables users to promptly open the file in Google Lens for more advanced search and recognition features.
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## **The Importance of This Update**
Transitioning to a personalized PDF viewer in Files by Google signifies more than just a visual overhaul—it represents a tactical decision to enhance usability and simplify workflows. Here are the key points of this update’s importance:
– **Enhanced Accessibility**: With the upgraded viewer, users can reach essential features like sharing, starring, and printing right within the app, negating the need to shift to Google Drive.
– **Improved Organization**: The capability to star files and see detailed information helps users manage crucial documents more effectively.
– **Boosted Productivity**: The revamped interface and broader menu options minimize friction, allowing users to execute tasks more swiftly.
– **Offline Usability**: As the new viewer is built into Files by Google, it is less dependent on internet access, making it a more dependable option for offline usage.
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## **How to Access the New PDF Viewer**
The new PDF viewer is being gradually introduced and is accessible to users running version 1.5687 of the Files by Google app. However, some users may need to update their devices to **Android 15** to experience the changes. To verify if you can access the new viewer:
1. Update the Files by Google app to the latest version from the Google Play Store.
2. Open a PDF file within the app.
3. Look for the new interface, which features the **Star** and **Share** buttons, along with the redesigned overflow menu.
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## **Comparison of Old vs. New PDF Viewer**
To gain a clearer understanding of the upgrades, here’s a succinct comparison of the previous and current PDF viewers:
| Feature | Old Viewer (Google Drive) | New Viewer (Files by Google) |
|————————|—————————|——————————|
| **Integration** | Linked to Google Drive | Fully integrated into Files |
| **Sharing Options** | Limited | Clearly displayed |
| **Starring Files** | Not available | Now available |
| **Menu Options** | Basic | Expanded capabilities |
| **Markup Tools** | Standard | Enhanced |
| **Google Lens** | Not available | Integrated for select files |
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## **Initial User Reactions and Impressions**
Early users of the new PDF viewer have commended its user-friendly layout and added features. The capability to quickly star and share files has been especially appreciated, along with the presence of advanced functionalities like **Move to Safe Folder** and **Print**. However, some users have remarked that the update requires Android 15, which could restrict its accessibility for those with older devices.
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## **Future Outlook**
Google’s launch of a custom PDF viewer in Files by Google illustrates its dedication to providing a more user-focused experience. By emphasizing usability and broadening functionalities, the company is setting a new benchmark for file management on Android devices.
As the update continues to be rolled out, it’s evident that this is merely the beginning.
