Google Chrome’s Secret PDF Tool: Easy for Basic Edits, Highlighting, and Signing Documents
Google Chrome browser hides a secret PDF tool that could prove incredibly useful for every user. While many users may be unaware that Chrome has a built-in PDF viewer, it is capable of much more than just viewing files—it allows for document annotation and signing.
This hidden feature is better than you might expect. Using this tool, you can highlight specific parts of a document and even add your signature manually.
How Does It Work?
This annotation feature arrived with Chrome version 145. Therefore, before using this facility, you should ensure your browser is fully updated. This also ensures you have the latest security improvements.
Open the File: First, drag and drop the PDF file you want to edit from your computer directly into a new tab in the Chrome browser.
Access the Toolbar: Chrome’s PDF viewer has its own taskbar. Click on the 'Draw' icon (which looks like a scribble), and a sidebar with various options will open on the right side of the browser.
Choose Your Tool: From the top of the sidebar, you can select a Pen, Highlighter, or Eraser.
Customize and Edit: After selecting the pen or highlighter, you can change its size and color according to your preference. You can then draw or highlight on the PDF using your mouse or trackpad. If you make a mistake, use the eraser button to remove it.
Saving Your Work
The tool also provides 'Undo' and 'Redo' buttons. Once you finish editing, click the download icon to save the PDF—either with your changes or in its original form. Additionally, there is an option to save the file directly to Google Drive.
Summary
If you require more advanced features, there are other professional PDF editors available on the market. However, for basic tasks and quick edits, this secret Chrome tool is highly effective.
Google is also introducing other changes to Chrome, including a new Split View feature, "Chrome Skills" to enhance AI capabilities, and a new AI Mode designed to boost productivity.
