Merging

How to Merge PDFs on Mobile (Android + iPhone)

Step-by-step instructions for Android, iOS, and ChromeOS users who need to stitch PDFs without touching a laptop.

11 min readUpdated January 20, 2025

Mobile merging use cases

Consultants on-site, students commuting to campus, and field technicians all need to consolidate PDFs away from a desk. Maybe you signed a contract on your phone and must attach it to expense receipts before leaving a client’s office. With the right apps and browser tools, you can merge everything on the go.

The process feels different on each platform, but MyPDFHero keeps the interface consistent. It’s optimized for thumbs, not mouse cursors.

Merge PDFs on iPhone or iPad

Use the Files app: select the PDFs, tap the three dots, and choose “Create PDF.” Files combines them in alphabetical order. Rename the output and move it to the folder you need. For better control over ordering, open MyPDFHero in Safari, add the files, drag them into the right sequence, and export.

Safari caches downloads automatically, so tap the arrow icon to access the merged PDF. From there you can AirDrop it or attach it to Mail.

Merge PDFs on Android

Google Drive allows you to select multiple PDFs and open them in third-party apps, but it does not merge natively. Instead, launch Chrome, visit MyPDFHero, and upload from the Files picker. The drag handles work great on touchscreens, and you can save the output straight to Drive.

For offline scenarios, apps like Xodo or Microsoft Office provide basic merging. Just remember to delete temporary files after syncing the result.

Merge PDFs on Chromebooks

Chromebooks rely on web apps, making MyPDFHero the obvious choice. Use the touchpad or touchscreen to reorder items, merge, and download. Because Chromebooks share storage with Google Drive, it is easy to move the merged file into shared folders for approval.

Install the PWA version of MyPDFHero (Add to Home screen) so the tool sits alongside your other apps for offline access.

Keep files secure on mobile

Enable device passcodes, Face ID, or fingerprint unlock so sensitive contracts stay protected. When you finish merging, delete the downloads or move them into an encrypted cloud workspace. This matters when you handle HR paperwork or student records in public spaces.

MyPDFHero never stores files longer than needed, but your phone might. Clearing recents in the Files app is an easy safeguard.

Step-by-step workflow

Follow these practical steps inside MyPDFHero or your operating system to complete the task quickly.

  1. Step 1

    Open MyPDFHero in mobile browser

    Pin the Merge PDF tool to your home screen for one-tap access.

  2. Step 2

    Upload PDFs from Files or Drive

    Use the native picker to choose multiple documents at once.

  3. Step 3

    Reorder with drag handles

    Tap and hold each pill in the queue to reorder pages.

  4. Step 4

    Merge + download

    Tap Merge PDFs, wait for the status banner, and download to your device.

  5. Step 5

    Share or compress

    Open the file from the download tray, rename it, and optionally send it through the compressor.

Official resources

Validate your workflow with trusted documentation from Google, Microsoft, Adobe, and other official sources.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an app to merge PDFs on mobile?

No. MyPDFHero runs entirely in the browser and is optimized for touch. Native apps exist but aren’t required.

Can I reorder pages easily on a phone?

Yes. Drag handles are large enough for thumbs, and there is haptic feedback when an item snaps into place.

Will mobile merging alter my PDF quality?

Not when you use MyPDFHero. We concatenate files without re-encoding them.

How do I find the merged file on iOS?

Tap the Safari download icon or open the Files app > Downloads folder. From there you can rename and move it.

Is mobile merging safe for sensitive docs?

Yes, as long as your device is secured with a passcode and you trust the network. Avoid public Wi-Fi or use a VPN.

Can I merge PDFs offline?

You need a browser connection for MyPDFHero. For offline merging, use Files on iOS or a dedicated app on Android, then compress later.

Related reading

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