By Microsoft updated the integrated PDF reader in the Edge browser two years ago; however, many users have stuck with the outdated legacy PDF reader to this day.
Adobe’s PDF engine was replaced in Edge in 2023; however, the rollout simply changed the default engine on consumer devices. By adjusting a browser flag option, consumer devices could revert to the old engine, while business machines had to choose to use the new one.
According to Windows Latest, Microsoft has now reaffirmed its intention to compel EVERY user to utilize Adobe’s PDF engine. Administrators who wish to postpone the installation of the PDF engine on their PCs will need to implement an opt-out policy as of September 2025. Only until early 2026, when Microsoft intends to formally retire Edge’s outdated PDF engine, will that delay persist.
The primary grievance with Adobe’s PDF engine is that users must pay to access some sophisticated and less sophisticated functions, including text and image editing, format conversion, document merging, and more. It serves as yet another illustration of how Microsoft seems to take advantage of its customers whenever possible.
