check before: 2025-10-15
Product:
Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 suite, Microsoft Edge, Purview Information Protection
Platform:
Online, Web, World tenant
Status:
In development
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft Edge for Business introduces a new Adobe-powered PDF viewer available for testing in Edge Beta (version 136). Organizations should validate their workflows before the default rollout in October 2025. Key enhancements include performance, accessibility, and compatibility improvements. The legacy viewer will retire in early 2026. For more details, visit the Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID [489231](https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=489231).
Details:
The Adobe-powered PDF viewer in Microsoft Edge for Business is now available in beta for organizations to test. Organizations can now experience the viewer by default in Edge Beta (starting in version 136) and validate how it works within their PDF workflows. This early testing period helps identify and address any issues before the viewer becomes the default in Edge Stable release in October 2025. We will retire the legacy PDF viewer in early 2026.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 489231.
[When this will happen:]
The Adobe-powered PDF viewer is now available in beta to test.
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out mid-October 2025 and expect to complete by late October 2025.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability
Created:
2025-05-13
updated:
2025-05-13
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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Pictures
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summary for non-techies**
Microsoft Edge for Business is testing a new Adobe-powered PDF viewer in its Beta version, offering faster document loading, smoother scrolling, enhanced accessibility, and better compatibility, with plans to make it the default by October 2025.
Direct effects for Operations**
Performance Issues
If the new PDF viewer is rolled out without proper testing, users may experience slower document loading times and lag during scrolling, negatively impacting productivity.
- roles: End Users, IT Support
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481
Accessibility Challenges
The new viewer may not function properly with existing assistive technologies if not validated, leading to accessibility issues for users with disabilities.
- roles: End Users, Accessibility Coordinators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/DeployEdge/microsoft-edge-policies#newpdfreaderenabled
Compatibility Problems
Without prior testing, users may face compatibility issues with existing PDF documents, especially those requiring specific features like MIP protection, leading to workflow disruptions.
- roles: End Users, Compliance Officers
- references: 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 offers improved support for screen readers and form accessibility, which can significantly enhance the user experience for individuals with disabilities. This improvement aligns with compliance standards and promotes inclusivity within the organization.
- next-steps: Conduct training sessions for users with disabilities to familiarize them with the new features. Gather feedback on accessibility improvements to ensure they meet user needs.
- roles: Accessibility Coordinators, HR Managers, IT Support Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/DeployEdge/microsoft-edge-policies#newpdfreaderenabled, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481
Improved Document Workflow Efficiency
The faster document load times and smoother scrolling in the new PDF viewer can enhance productivity by reducing the time users spend waiting for documents to open and navigate. This can lead to more efficient workflows, especially in departments that rely heavily on PDF documents.
- next-steps: Identify departments that frequently use PDFs and monitor their workflow performance before and after implementing the new viewer. Adjust training materials to highlight the performance benefits.
- roles: Operations Managers, Team Leaders, IT Administrators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/DeployEdge/microsoft-edge-policies#newpdfreaderenabled, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481
Compatibility with MIP-Protected Documents
The enhanced support for viewing Microsoft Information Protection (MIP) Protected PDF Files and sensitivity labels can streamline compliance and security protocols. This is crucial for organizations handling sensitive information, ensuring that users can access protected documents without compromising security.
- next-steps: Review current MIP document handling procedures and assess how the new viewer can be integrated into existing workflows. Provide training on the new features to relevant staff.
- roles: Compliance Officers, Security Analysts, IT Security Managers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/DeployEdge/microsoft-edge-policies#newpdfreaderenabled, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftedgeinsider/microsoft-edge-and-adobe-partner-to-improve-the-pdf-experience/3733481
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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