What to know
- Preview is Apple’s dedicated app for editing PDFs and images on iPhone/iPad.
- You can annotate, sign, scan, resize, crop, and export documents in multiple formats.
- Files from iCloud, local storage, and other sources can be managed within Preview.
- The app includes PDF AutoFill, markup, document scanning, and easier sharing tools.
iOS 26 introduces Preview, a powerful addition to your device, designed to give you full control over PDFs and images. If you've used the similar app on Mac, you’ll find many familiar features here, now optimized for touch.
The Preview app in iOS 26 brings Mac-style editing to mobile
The Preview app on iOS 26 offers a robust set of features previously only available on the Mac, making it simple to open, annotate, and manage PDFs and images anywhere. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply want a better way to scan and sign documents, you’ll appreciate the flexibility and convenience this app delivers.
Key functions available in the Preview app
Preview is designed to be your central hub for document management on iPhone and iPad. You’ll find the following core capabilities:
- Open and browse PDFs, images, and screenshots directly from Files, iCloud, or your device.
- Edit PDFs and images: rotate, resize, crop, flip, and annotate using robust markup tools.
- Sign documents or fill out PDF forms quickly with built-in AutoFill and signing tools.
- Scan new documents using the camera, with support for multi-page PDFs and instant edits.
- Export files into various formats (JPEG, PNG, TIFF, PDF, HEIC) with adjustable resolution and size.
Feature comparison between Preview and Files app
| Feature | Preview App iOS 26 | Files App iOS 26 |
|---|---|---|
| PDF viewing | Yes | Yes |
| Image editing | Yes | Limited |
| Annotation/Markup tools | Yes | No |
| PDF form filling (AutoFill) | Yes | No |
| Document scanning | Yes | Yes |
| Export in multiple formats | Yes | Limited |
| Cloud and local file access | Yes | Yes |
How to use the new Preview app
Images: Kapill M Malani/Nerd'sChalk
Follow these steps to get started with Preview on iOS 26:
Step 1
Launch the Preview app from your Home Screen after updating to iOS 26.
Step 2
Browse to locate your document in iCloud, on-device storage, or connected files sources.
Step 3
Open your PDF or image; you’ll see editing and annotation tools at the bottom or side of the screen.
Step 4
To scan a new document, tap the “+” icon and choose “Scan Document,” then follow on-screen instructions.
Step 5
Edit your file using tools for markup, signatures, resizing, cropping, or using AutoFill to fill forms.
Step 6
Export or share your work using the built-in options, including selecting file type and adjusting settings.
The tech behind Preview!
Preview supports all iPhones running iOS 26 or later, leveraging Apple’s latest design standards and system security. Its interface is inspired by Apple's Mac Preview but tailored for touch devices, making annotation and signing easy for everyone, including users with accessibility needs like Braille optimizations.
Wrap-up: Preview is your Apple's apple-y solution for documents and images
Preview brings familiar, powerful document editing and management features from Mac to iOS, making work with PDFs and images smoother and faster than ever. With robust tools for scanning, editing, filling forms, and exporting, it’s a major upgrade for productivity and everyday use.
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