You might see that the Dropbox Community team have been busy working on some major updates to the Community itself! So, here is some info on what’s changed, what’s staying the same and what you can expect from the Dropbox Community overall.
Forum Discussion
How do I open PDF files from Dropbox on Android devices?
Hello :-)
There is a problem with PDF files. They do not open when downloading in android devices :-(
The dropbox link is ?dl=1
There isn't any problem when downloading in Desktop PC and Apple ...
Thanks for the reply Giannis F. and sorry to hear this persists.
Do you notice the same behavior on other browsers other than the one you used so far?
Remember the "dl=1" parameter at the end of shared links should tell the browser to download the file(s) instead of attempting to display it so this seems to be an issue caused by the browser you use (as you say, the files and links are working fine).
Let me know what you find.
Walter
Dropbox Staff
Dropbox StaffSorry to hear about this Giannis F. - what app are you using to open those files to begin with?
I can see no problem with the link you provided me with - I was able to download and open the file normally.
Also, I couldn't help but notice that your PDF is in Greek - do you use Greek characters for your PDF files' names maybe?
Moreover, as per the difference between the "dl=0" and "dl=1" parameters, take a look at this thread where Rich has provided some additional information about it.
Note that, as you say you're able to open those links normally and download as well, the issue you're experiencing might be caused by something outside our scope; the mobile app you'd be opening your PDF files maybe? Your mobile itself perhaps?
In any case, please keep me posted on your progress Giannis. Oh, and happy Monday!
Thanx again Walter.
It has nothing to do with my personal mobile device. A lot of users of my website and friends complain that they can't open pdf files on android devices.
I dont' t use any app in my mobile, just Google Chrome to visit my site.
The pdf files open normally when using ?dl=0 or ?raw=1 but they don't when using ?dl=1. So that is the problem. I have checked it many times in different android devices, it has nothing to do with greek characters or anything else. Everything is OK with ?dl=1 links in my desktopo computer, or in iPhone iOS, but there is problem with android devices.
Please look for a solution with your team. Help us :-)
- Walter
Thanks for the reply Giannis F. and sorry to hear this persists.
Do you notice the same behavior on other browsers other than the one you used so far?
Remember the "dl=1" parameter at the end of shared links should tell the browser to download the file(s) instead of attempting to display it so this seems to be an issue caused by the browser you use (as you say, the files and links are working fine).
Let me know what you find.
I just downloaded 2 other browsers apps in my android mobile: Mozilla + Opera
Everything is working fine in both browsers. PDF files now open!
There is problem only in Google Chrome, the default browser of my android mobile.
:-)
- Walter
Glad to hear this worked out well after all Giannis F. - I appreciate you taking the time to update me on this matter too!
Should you ever stumble upon a Dropbox issue or you come up with a question, feel free to reach out again; we'll be happy to assist.
Thanks again for using Dropbox and enjoy the rest of your day.
Cheers!
