iOS 26 introduces not just aesthetic changes but also functionalities that streamline user experience. Among these innovations is the Preview app, a handy utility that has long been a staple for Mac users. This new feature now empowers iPhone users with a seamless option for editing PDFs and images within one interface, thereby eliminating the hassle of juggling multiple applications. In this article, we will delve into the various functionalities of Preview and highlight how it can significantly enhance your productivity.
Introducing the Preview App on iPhone
Upon upgrading to iOS 26, you will find the Preview app conveniently located on your home screen. This application inherits a suite of tools that have made it a favorite among Mac users over the years, enabling easy image and PDF editing, file export in multiple formats, and the ability to add digital signatures.
While functionalities such as document scanning and annotation have been part of the Files app, Preview aims to provide a focused environment dedicated to editing PDFs and images, distinct from file management tasks. This development is part of Apple’s broader strategy to unify its software ecosystem across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.
Importantly, Preview has become the default application when accessing images and PDFs from the Files app (excluding doc/docx formats), enhancing user efficiency.
Features of the Preview App on iPhone
The Preview app is integrated with the Files app, allowing you to view a range of documents, photos, and PDFs from local storage, iCloud Drive, and other cloud services. However, it does not directly access images from your Photos library, but you can easily move them there.
To import images, open the desired photo in the Photos app and tap the Share button located in the lower-left corner.
From the share menu, swipe up to reveal more options and choose Save to Files.
After saving, you can open the images from the Files app using Preview, or launch Preview directly to access your Files library.
Once you’ve loaded an image or PDF, editing tools reveal themselves, offering options not available within the Files app.
Image Cropping Made Easy
Cropping images is straightforward in Preview. Click the rectangle icon at the bottom of the screen, select your desired area, and then long-press to choose Crop.
Importantly, cropping functionality extends to PDFs as well.
Background Removal Feature
Preview also allows you to remove backgrounds from images effortlessly. Load your desired photo, tap the three dots in the top-right corner, and select Remove Background.
Resizing and Rotating Options
You can easily resize or rotate images by accessing the options found under the three-dot menu in the top-right corner. Choices include Rotate Left/Right or Flip Horizontally/Vertically.
For resizing, simply select the Adjust Size option.
Incorporate Text Boxes
Furthermore, Preview allows users to add text boxes within documents. Although the Files app supports digital signatures, Preview expands your interactive capabilities by enabling text annotations.
To insert a text box, tap the second icon at the bottom, followed by the blue + button located in the lower-right corner.
This feature not only allows for note-taking but also supports handwriting conversion. By selecting the text and accessing the three-dot menu, you can opt for Convert to Handwriting.
The converted text adopts the style of the selected pen tool, offering a personalized touch to your annotations.
Exporting and Reducing File Sizes
Exporting is another remarkable feature of Preview. After opening your file, simply tap the small arrow next to its name at the top.
You can then select Export from the dropdown list, saving your file in formats like HEIC, JPEG, PDF, PNG, or TIFF.
What’s more, when exporting to JPEG, you can adjust the Size slider to control file size and tweak settings like resolution.
Creating Documents from Scratch
The Preview app allows users to create new documents by selecting the New Document option. However, this feature primarily supports annotation tools, making it similar to a digital scrapbook.
On your new page, click the pen tip icon at the bottom to select your preferred pen tool and color.
To exit annotation mode, simply tap the blue pen icon at the top-right corner of the screen.
Your creativity can flourish here, especially with added features accessed via the + button in the menu.
For instance, I experimented with text copied from a website and used the Add Text function in Preview to create a handwritten note style, complemented by stickers and shapes.
While certain advanced features available in the macOS version, such as document merging and pagination, are yet to be incorporated into the iOS app, we can anticipate their introduction in future updates. As the app matures, it could evolve into a robust solution for comprehensive file management.
Users have pointed out that switching between files in Preview could be more user-friendly, which seems valid at first glance. However, you can easily navigate back to the Files library view by tapping the Back button while viewing an open document, facilitating access to other content.
If the Preview app doesn’t meet your needs, you can uninstall it, reverting file opening back to the Files app. Alternatively, long-press a file in the Files app and select Quick Look to view it in the Files app instead.
Despite its limitations, Preview indeed enhances overall workflow by centralizing essential editing features into a single application.
iOS 26 also introduces a variety of other exciting features. If you’re interested in learning more, check out our guide on setting up callback reminders for your iPhone running iOS 26.
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