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Adobe Acrobat Reader is a popular tool for viewing and editing PDF documents on Mac. However, sometimes other programs take over as the default application for opening PDF files, causing inconvenience. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on Mac. By following these methods, you can ensure that all your PDF files automatically open with Adobe Acrobat Reader, saving you time and effort.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To make Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on your Mac, you will need the following:
1. A Mac computer
2. Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your Mac
3. Basic knowledge of navigating your Mac’s settings and preferences
What Requires Your Focus?
While making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader may seem like a simple task, it may require your attention to ensure that the changes are applied correctly. The methods outlined below will guide you through the process step by step, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and make note of any relevant settings or options in your Mac’s system preferences.
Different Methods to Make Adobe Acrobat Reader Default on Mac
Here are several methods you can use to make Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on your Mac.
Method 1: Using Finder
Step 1: Open Finder on your Mac by clicking on the Finder icon in the Dock or by pressing Command + Space and typing "Finder" in the Spotlight search bar.
Step 2: In the Finder menu, click on "Finder" and select "Preferences".
Step 3: In the Preferences window, click on the "General" tab.
Step 4: Under "Open with:", select Adobe Acrobat Reader from the drop-down menu.
Step 5: Close the Preferences window.
Pros:
– Easy to access and change the default PDF reader.
– No advanced technical knowledge required.
Cons:
– Limited options for customization.
Method 2: Using Get Info
Step 1: Locate a PDF file on your Mac.
Step 2: Right-click (or control-click) on the PDF file and select "Get Info".
Step 3: In the Get Info window, expand the "Open with" section.
Step 4: Select Adobe Acrobat Reader from the list of available applications.
Step 5: Click on the "Change All…" button to apply the changes to all PDF files.
Pros:
– Allows for specific file association changes.
– Useful for individual file preferences.
Cons:
– Time-consuming if you have multiple PDF files.
– Not applicable for system-level changes.
Method 3: Using System Preferences
Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen and select "System Preferences".
Step 2: In the System Preferences window, click on "Security & Privacy".
Step 3: Select the "Privacy" tab and scroll down to find "Automation" in the left sidebar.
Step 4: Click on the lock icon in the bottom-left corner and enter your computer’s administrator password.
Step 5: Check the box next to Adobe Acrobat Reader under "PDF Documents" in the right pane.
Pros:
– Provides system-wide default PDF reader settings.
– Allows for advanced control over file associations.
Cons:
– Requires administrator privileges.
– May require additional steps for customization.
Method 4: Using Terminal
Step 1: Open Terminal on your Mac by searching for it in Spotlight or navigating to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
Step 2: Type the following command and press Enter:
"`
defaults write com.apple.LaunchServices/com.apple.launchservices.secure LSHandlers -array-add ‘{LSHandlerContentType = "com.adobe.pdf"; LSHandlerRoleAll = "com.adobe.Reader";}’
"`
Step 3: Restart your Mac for the changes to take effect.
Pros:
– Provides a command-line alternative for advanced users.
– Applicable for system-level changes.
Cons:
– Requires familiarity with Terminal and command-line commands.
– May not be suitable for novice users.
Why Can’t I Make Adobe Acrobat Reader Default on Mac?
Making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on Mac might not work for some users due to various reasons. Here are a few common issues and their respective solutions:
1. Another application is set as the default: If another application, such as Preview or Chrome, is set as the default PDF reader, you need to change the settings as described in the methods above.
2. Outdated Adobe Acrobat Reader version: Ensure that you have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your Mac. Visit the official Adobe website (https://get.adobe.com/reader/) to download the latest version.
3. File associations are not set correctly: If the file associations are not set correctly, your Mac may not recognize Adobe Acrobat Reader as the default PDF reader. Use the methods described above to set the correct file associations.
4. System-level restrictions: In some cases, system-level restrictions or permissions may prevent you from changing the default PDF reader. Make sure you have sufficient administrative privileges to make these changes.
Implications and Recommendations
Here are a few recommendations and implications to consider when making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on Mac:
1. Compatibility: Ensure that Adobe Acrobat Reader is compatible with your Mac’s operating system before making it the default PDF reader. Check for updates regularly to ensure optimal performance.
2. Preferences: Take note of any custom preferences or settings you have in your current PDF reader and configure Adobe Acrobat Reader accordingly for a seamless transition.
3. Uninstalling other PDF readers: If you no longer need other PDF readers after making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default, consider uninstalling them to minimize clutter and potential conflicts.
5 FAQs about Making Adobe Acrobat Reader Default on Mac
Q1: How do I know if Adobe Acrobat Reader is already the default PDF reader on Mac?
A: To check if Adobe Acrobat Reader is already set as the default PDF reader, right-click (or control-click) on a PDF file and select "Get Info". In the Get Info window, the "Open with" section will display the currently associated application.
Q2: Can I revert back to my previous PDF reader after making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default?
A: Yes, you can always change the default PDF reader on your Mac. Simply follow the same methods outlined above and select your preferred PDF reader instead of Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Q3: Are there any limitations when using Adobe Acrobat Reader as the default PDF reader on Mac?
A: Adobe Acrobat Reader is a powerful PDF reader with extensive features. However, some advanced functions, such as document editing or electronic signatures, may require a subscription to Adobe Acrobat DC.
Q4: Can I set different default PDF readers for different files on Mac?
A: Yes, using the "Get Info" method described above, you can set different default PDF readers for individual files on Mac.
Q5: What should I do if none of the above methods work for me?
A: If none of the above methods work for you, try uninstalling and reinstalling Adobe Acrobat Reader and then repeat the steps. If the issue persists, consider seeking assistance from Adobe Support or your Mac’s support team.
Final Words
Making Adobe Acrobat Reader the default PDF reader on your Mac can greatly enhance your PDF viewing and editing experience. By following the methods outlined in this blog post, you can easily make Adobe Acrobat Reader the default and enjoy seamless access to your PDF files. Remember to consider any implications or recommendations mentioned and troubleshoot common issues if the changes don’t apply as expected.