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How to Convert Images to PDF on iPhone |
How to Convert Images to PDF on iPhone (3 Easy Methods)
Converting an image to PDF on an iPhone is easier than most people think. Whether you want to store a scanned document, share a photo in a more professional format, or simply reduce compatibility issues, your iPhone has built-in tools to get the job done. Best of all, you don’t always need a third-party app Apple already provides simple ways to convert images into PDFs in just a few taps.
But how exactly can you do it? And which method should you choose? Let’s explore the most effective techniques, step by step.
Why Convert an Image to PDF on iPhone?
Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand why converting images to PDF is useful. Unlike standard JPEG or PNG files, PDFs are universally recognized across devices and operating systems. They also preserve formatting, which is especially handy for:
- Submitting scanned documents online (e.g., IDs, contracts).
- Sending multiple photos as one single file.
- Ensuring the image cannot be easily altered.
For example, imagine you’ve just taken a photo of a signed contract. Sending it as an image might look informal, but sending it as a PDF gives it a professional and polished appearance.
1. Convert Image to PDF Using the Files App
Apple’s Files app is not only a file manager but also a hidden gem for creating PDFs. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the Files app on your iPhone.
- Locate the image you want to convert.
- Long-press the photo and tap Quick Actions.
- From the menu, select Create PDF.
👉 Tip: Want to combine several images into one PDF? Select multiple photos first, tap the three dots at the bottom-right corner, and then choose Create PDF. This is particularly useful for sending multiple receipts or scanned pages in a single document.
2. Convert Images to PDF Using the Photos App
The Photos app isn’t just for viewing pictures it can also turn them into PDFs with a few taps. Here’s the process:
- Open the Photos app and select your image.
- Tap the Share icon (bottom-left corner).
- Choose Print from the options.
- When the preview appears, pinch outward on the screen to enlarge it.
- Tap the Share icon again, then select Save to Files.
That’s it your photo is now a PDF stored safely in the Files app. This method is especially quick if you’re already browsing through your photo gallery.
3. Convert Images to PDF Using Apple Books
Another built-in option is Apple Books, which instantly converts images to PDFs. Here’s how:
- Open the Photos app and pick the image you want to convert.
- Tap the Share button.
- Select Books from the menu.
- The photo will be automatically converted into a PDF and saved in the Books app.
- To export it, open the PDF in Books, tap the three dots, and select Share PDF → Save to Files.
This approach works well if you plan to organize multiple documents within Books, making it easy to find them later.
Do You Need Third-Party Apps?
Although the iPhone’s native tools are usually enough, some users prefer extra features like password protection, file compression, or advanced editing. In that case, third-party apps such as Adobe Scan, Scanner Pro, or PDF Expert from the App Store might be worth considering.
For instance, a student scanning handwritten notes may prefer an app that enhances text readability, while a business user might look for digital signature integration.
Final Thoughts
Converting images to PDF on iPhone is straightforward and requires no additional downloads. Whether you choose Files, Photos, or Apple Books, you’ll be able to generate a clean, professional PDF in just seconds. And if you need more control, specialized apps are always an option.
So next time you capture an important document with your camera, you won’t have to worry about file format compatibility your iPhone has you covered.