The PDF reader from the Files by Google file manager is getting a number of new features. It will finally support several functions and will have a new interface for tablets.
Even though PDF files are practically universal, the apps for reading and editing them vary greatly in terms of functions. Files by Google is probably not the app that immediately comes to mind when you need to work with PDF documents on an Android smartphone or tablet. While the file manager makes it easy to grab any PDF for a quick preview if needed, it is very limited: you can view documents page by page, and… that’s about it. It’s a far cry from Adobe Acrobat Reader!
Until now, to be able to take advantage of zooming or searching in the file, you had to rely on Drive’s PDF viewer, Files by Google couldn’t do anything by itself. But things are about to change! By exploring the code of the APK file of the latest version 1.4955.677425801.0 of the Files by Google application, our colleagues atAndroid Authority managed to enable new features for the app’s internal PDF reader: zoom, search within the file, and password-protecting a PDF. Be careful, they only work on a device running Android 15.
PDF in Files by Google: a new interface for tablets
But that’s not the only new thing coming to Files by Google. In the code of the APK file of version 1.4831.672243909.0 of Files by Google this time, Android Authority has discovered a new layout for tablets and foldable smartphones – again, this new interface seems to be reserved for devices running Android 15 only. Until now, the app simply stretched the mobile display and offered a carousel view of recent files, a search bar, and access to categories, collections, and storage options. You would automatically switch to another page when you selected a file or folder.
The new UI moves all elements of the home page to a column on the left and displays the selected folder or category on the right. This way, it makes better use of the device’s larger screen and allows you to quickly browse through your files without having to constantly return to the home page to access a new folder or category.
The search bar has also been shrunk, while the “Scan” button has been moved to the bottom right corner of the left column to make room for additional buttons for the right column. The result is much more convenient! Now we just have to wait for Google to activate all these new features for users.