check before: 2025-10-01
Product:
Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 suite, Microsoft Edge, Purview Information Protection, Windows
Platform:
Online, Web, World tenant
Status:
Rolling out
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Details:
Summary:
Starting October 2025, Microsoft Edge on Windows will default to an Adobe-powered PDF viewer for enterprise users, improving performance, accessibility, and features. Rollout completes by March 2026. Admins can manage this via policies, with opt-out available until June 2026. No action needed if ready.
Details:
[Introduction]
Starting in October 2025, Microsoft Edge version 141 will introduce the Adobe-powered PDF viewer as the default experience for enterprise users on Windows. This change enhances performance, accessibility, and compatibility, and introduces exclusive enterprise features. It follows our earlier public announcement and aligns with Roadmap ID 489231 and MC post MC1072406.
General Availability: Migration will occur on a phased rollout. Rollout will begin October 2025 and will complete March 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability
Created:
2025-09-17
updated:
2025-09-17
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS How does it affect me
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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linked item details
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Disruption
If the new PDF viewer is enabled without preparation, users may face unexpected changes in their PDF handling processes, leading to confusion and decreased productivity.
- roles: End Users, Helpdesk Support
- references: https://blogs.windows.com/msedgedev/2023/02/08/adobe-acrobat-microsoft-edge-pdf/, https://learn.microsoft.com/deployedge/microsoft-edge-browser-policies/newpdfreaderenabled
Compatibility Issues
The new viewer may not be compatible with existing workflows or third-party applications, causing potential disruptions in document handling and collaboration.
- roles: IT Administrators, End Users
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=489231
Increased Support Tickets
The transition to the new PDF viewer without prior communication and training may lead to an influx of support requests from users unfamiliar with the new features.
- roles: Helpdesk Support, IT Administrators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/deployedge/microsoft-edge-webview-policies#newpdfreaderwebview2list, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=489231
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced PDF Accessibility Features
The new Adobe-powered PDF viewer includes improved accessibility features that can significantly enhance the user experience for employees with disabilities. This aligns with compliance standards and can improve overall workplace inclusivity.
- next-steps: Conduct a training session for HR and accessibility teams to ensure they understand the new features and can communicate them effectively to users. Develop documentation that outlines how to utilize these features.
- roles: HR Managers, Accessibility Coordinators, IT Support Teams
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481, https://learn.microsoft.com/deployedge/microsoft-edge-browser-policies/newpdfreaderenabled
Improved PDF Performance and Compatibility
The transition to the Adobe-powered viewer is expected to enhance PDF rendering performance and compatibility with various PDF formats. This can lead to increased productivity as users will spend less time troubleshooting PDF issues.
- next-steps: Monitor user feedback during the beta testing phase to identify any compatibility issues. Prepare a communication plan to inform users about the expected improvements and how to report any problems.
- roles: Project Managers, IT Operations, End Users
- references: https://blogs.windows.com/msedgedev/2023/02/08/adobe-acrobat-microsoft-edge-pdf/, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=489231
Streamlined IT Administrative Management
With the introduction of new policies to manage the PDF viewer experience, IT administrators can streamline their management processes. This allows for better control over user experiences and reduces the overhead of managing legacy systems.
- next-steps: Review current IT policies and documentation to integrate the new management options. Train IT staff on the new policies to ensure smooth implementation and user support.
- roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Support Teams
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/deployedge/microsoft-edge-webview-policies#newpdfreaderwebview2list, https://learn.microsoft.com/deployedge/microsoft-edge-browser-policies/newpdfreaderenabled
Potentional Risks**
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Data Protection**
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IT Security**
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Hypothetical Work Council Statement**
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DPIA Draft**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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