A PDF reader can be a useful tool on your smartphone, but is it necessary? PDFs, or Portable Document Format, were developed by Adobe in the 1990s to share documents across platforms. Most smartphones already display PDFs using pre-loaded software like Preview or Google Drive. A dedicated PDF reader offers specialized tools beyond basic viewing.
You likely don't need one if you only read files like menus or schedules. However, a specialized reader improves the experience if the default software feels clunky on small screens, especially for those with vision issues. The main reason to use a PDF reader is for heavy document work.
This includes filling out forms, adding signatures, and annotating with notes or highlights. Paid software provides even more editing and creation tools. If your smartphone use covers these cases, setting a specialized reader as the default will save time.
Security is also a consideration, as PDFs and readers can be hacker targets. Only download from reputable developers to avoid malware. A little due diligence ensures safe usage.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing