How to Edit a PDF on iPhone (Free, In-Browser)

A form, contract, or report arrives as a PDF on your iPhone and you need to fill it in, correct a detail, or add notes before sending it back. Many people assume this needs a paid app, but you can edit a PDF on an iPhone for free without installing anything.

Here is what you can edit with the built-in tools, and how to do more in your browser.

What the built-in iPhone tools can do

• The Files app opens a PDF and gives you Markup tools to add text, signatures, highlights, and drawings
• You can fill in blank form fields by tapping and typing
• Rotate, delete, and reorder pages inside the PDF viewer
• Notes can embed a PDF for basic mark-up alongside your own notes

Add text, highlights, and a signature with Files

1. 1Open the Files app and tap the PDF you want to edit.
2. 2Tap the Markup (pen-tip) icon to open the editing toolbar.
3. 3Tap the + button to add a text box, then drag and resize it on the page.
4. 4Use the highlighter or pen to mark sections, or insert your signature.
5. 5Tap Done to save your edited PDF.

These built-in tools are perfect for filling out forms, signing documents, and adding quick notes — all without downloading anything.

Edit PDF text on iPhone in your browser

When you need to change the actual content of the document, a browser-based editor gives you more control. It runs in Safari, requires no app, and processes the file locally so a sensitive document stays on your phone:

1. 1Open the Edit PDF tool in Safari on your iPhone.
2. 2Tap to choose a file, then select your PDF from the Files app.
3. 3Select the text or area you want to change and type the new content, or add annotations as needed.
4. 4Download the edited PDF and share it.

Keep a copy before you edit

Edits made in the Files app overwrite the original PDF, so duplicate the file first (long-press it and choose Duplicate) if you might need the unedited version. Save a copy before making bigger changes in an editor, and share the finished file only after you have checked it.