About sharing files for review

Acrobat on mobile lets you invite collaborators, control view or comment access, track activity, and manage permissions. Shared files sync across devices, so updates made on mobile are reflected on desktop and web.

How file sharing works

When you share a file, it uploads to the Adobe cloud storage, and recipients receive access through a secure link or direct invitation. You grant access to the single source file that everyone can view or comment on, and the changes are synced instantly for all collaborators.

Shared files are marked with a Share icon next to the filename in your file list, helping you easily distinguish them from local or unshared documents.

View-only versus collaborative review

Acrobat on mobile supports two primary sharing modes:

• View-only: Allow recipients to read and download the PDF without making any modifications. It works well for distributing final versions, formal documents, or files where you need to maintain control over the content. Recipients cannot make changes.
• Collaborative review: Enables recipients to add comments, annotations, highlights, and other markup directly to the shared PDF and supports active collaboration. You receive notifications when reviewers add comments, keeping everyone aligned on document progress.

Sharing methods

Acrobat on mobile supports three main file sharing methods:

• Direct invitation: Sends email invitations to specific people. Recipients receive an email with a link to access the file in Adobe Acrobat on any device.
• Link sharing: Generates a shareable URL that you can distribute through any communication channel. This method offers flexibility but requires careful control over who has access.
• Tagging: Lets you quickly share files by typing @ followed by a name or email address in a comment. The mentioned person receives access to the file and a notification about your comment.

Access control and permissions

Beyond basic view or comment access, you can apply additional protection to sensitive documents before sharing. With a premium subscription, you can set a password that recipients must enter to open the file, helping keep your files secure.

Managing and tracking shared files

Acrobat on mobile organizes shared files into two sections:

• Shared by you: Files you’ve sent to others
• Shared by others: Files shared with you

This makes it easier to find documents and track your role in each collaboration.

For privately shared files, recipients can request access if they don’t already have permission. As the file owner, you can approve or deny these requests at any time.

You also receive notifications for review activity, helping you stay updated without constantly checking for changes.

Cross-device synchronization

Files shared from Acrobat on mobile are automatically available on desktop and web versions of Acrobat. You can start a review on your phone and continue it later on another device without transferring files manually.

Because files are cloud-based, everyone always sees the latest version, reducing confusion from multiple file copies shared through email.