How to Create PDFs on Android Devices Using Google Drive

Creating PDFs on your Android device has become significantly easier over the years. In the past, I relied on apps like Tiny Scanner to turn paper documents into PDFs using my phone's camera. Later, Google introduced its scanning app called Stack, which offered quick scans and categorization. However, Google is now sunsetting Stack and incorporating some of its features into the Google Drive app, which comes pre-installed on Android phones.

If you need to create a quick PDF using Google Drive, here's how it works:

Steps to Create a PDF with Google Drive

1. Open the Google Drive App: If your phone doesn't have the app, you can download it from the Play Store.

2. Prepare Your Document: Lay out your document on a contrasting surface for better results. Tap the camera icon located above the +New button in the app.

Auto capture finds the edges of the new PDF. Screenshot: Google

1. Capture the Document: The app will automatically determine the edges of your document using a blue outline. It defaults to Auto capture, which quickly creates a draft PDF by detecting the document’s edges.

2. Manual Capture Option: If you prefer more control, tap on the Manual button under the image, adjust the outline by moving your phone, and press the shutter button.

3. Use Existing Photos: If you've already taken a picture of the document, use the photo icon to the left of the shutter button to select an image from your Photos.

4. Edit the Draft PDF: Once captured, you’ll be taken to an editing page where you can crop, filter, clean up, retake, or delete the PDF. To create a multi-page document, tap the plus icon under the image to add another page.

Once created, the PDF is previewed and can be edited. Screenshot: Google

1. Save the Document: Once you’re happy with your document, tap Done in the top right corner, select the location in Google Drive where you want to save it, and tap Save.

Editing an Existing PDF

Google Drive also allows for basic editing of existing PDFs:

1. Open the PDF: In Google Drive, tap on the PDF file you want to edit.

2. Select the Edit Icon: Tap the edit icon in the lower right corner to write on or highlight the document using various colored “ink.”

Existing PDFs have limited editing features. Screenshot: Google

1. Additional Edits: Use the icons at the top of the page to add comments or search within the document. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner to share, manage access, download, or perform other tasks.

Limitations and Alternatives

While Google Drive offers convenient PDF creation and basic editing features, it lacks advanced functions such as removing pages, adding text, or password-protecting documents. For these capabilities, consider using Adobe Acrobat or another for-pay app.

Creating PDFs on your Android device is now straightforward with Google Drive, combining convenience and essential functionality. While it may not cover all advanced editing needs, it's a reliable tool for everyday document management.