This section provides an overview for pdf readers as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 13 pdf reader manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked pdf reader companies as of November, 2024: 1.Texthelp Ltd., 2.Nitro Software, Inc, 3.Kdan Mobile Software Ltd..
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CEO of FoxitJapan Inc.
Foxit's PDF technology is a sophisticated engine that creates PDF engines and various document solutions in the marketplace for global companies. FoxitJapan is one of the starting bases of Foxit Global, and now provides PDF technology for professional use, such as embedding and bundling PD functions into the products and systems of some of the earliest Japanese companies.
PDF, standing for “portable document format,” is a file format designed to save data as if printed on paper and display it on various devices. PDF readers allow users to view and print PDF files. Recent advancements have led to many browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Opera, integrating PDF reader functionalities. These modern browsers comply with web standards and aim to minimize special behaviors or specifications, facilitating the viewing of PDF documents without needing dedicated software like Acrobat Reader.
PDFs can be displayed on various devices, eliminating the need for physical user manuals or operating instructions. This transition to digital reduces printing costs, conserves resources, and allows for interactive product handling and specification updates, especially beneficial in remote working scenarios. Moreover, by integrating PDF functionalities into proprietary software, it's possible to enhance usability dramatically, such as by outputting and visualizing sensing results in PDF format. PDFs support display on many devices, including e-books, game consoles, electronic blackboards, karaoke remote controls, projectors, business panels, machine tools, measuring instruments, medical equipment, robots, and more, independent of the operating system.
Typically, product design specifications and drawings, including photographs, are converted into electronic files in PDF format using a PDF editor. These PDF files are often shared via cloud-based PDF readers, and images are distributed via web conference software or email, helping to create a paperless environment and facilitating quick information sharing among involved parties.
PDF SDKs are used to implement PDF functionalities and controls, ranging from PDF display to object manipulation, in self-developed devices. Platform-independent PDF SDKs run on various operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, and embedded OSs, without requiring code redesign. They can be called from programming languages like C/C++, C#, Delphi, and Visual Basic, and are designed for device-independent display systems. Utilizing PDF SDKs can shorten development time and limit costs, as developers can focus more on product development.
For browser-based applications, JavaScript and a pure JavaScript library, PDF SDK for Web, are available to implement not only PDF viewing but also annotations and other functionalities. With the rise of remote working, there's been an increase in demand for PDF display on mobile devices. To meet this demand, Mobile PDF SDKs are available, enabling developers to easily incorporate PDF functionalities into mobile devices. Even an OEM version of PDF readers Mobile is offered, requiring no development for in-house products.
A key feature of PDF readers is the comparison tool, which allows users to compare a current PDF file with an original reference file and highlights changes. This feature is particularly useful for identifying text and diagram alterations. Additionally, while PDF readers may not offer full editing capabilities, they often include annotation and signature functions, similar to those in Acrobat Reader, useful for simple writing and signing tasks.
PDFs have evolved to be not only paperless but also cloud-enabled. Cloud computing, different from simple online access, creates an environment akin to that of a company office PC on a virtual server via the Internet. This approach is recommended for its minimal reliance on user terminal data, enabling authenticated software use in a secure environment. For users seeking to access PDF readers from any location, especially in the context of increased teleworking, cloud-based PDF readers are recommended service software.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Nitro Software, Inc., established in 2005 and based in Melbourne, Australia, is a manufacturer of products designed to facilitate efficient meeting planning. The company boasts a diverse product range, including PDF Pro for Windows, PDF Pro for iOS, and PDF Pro for macOS. These solutions are applicable across various industries, such as professional services, financial services, healthcare, real estate, and manufacturing, to name a few. The software offerings are instrumental in managing substantial volumes of digital documents, expediting approval processes, and simplifying contract management through compliant PDF and eSign software, ensuring seamless operations in a digital workspace.
Adobe Inc., established in 1982 as Adobe Systems Incorporated, is an American multinational manufacturer with its global headquarters in San Jose, California, specializing in computer software. This software facilitates creativity, boosts document efficiency, and supports digital businesses. Featured among its products are Adobe Acrobat Reader and the Portable Document Format (PDF), Adobe Illustrator, vector-based illustration software, Adobe Photoshop, image editing software, and tools for audio-visual content editing and publishing. It also offers Adobe Creative Cloud, a software suite for graphic design, photography, video editing, and web development. Furthermore, the company provides Adobe Marketing Cloud, a software suite for digital marketing management.
FOXIT SOFTWARE INC, founded in the United States, is a supplier of PDF Editing and eSign software. The company offers a user-friendly platform for editing and customizing PDF documents, allowing you to create, edit, and convert PDF files effortlessly, eSign software enables secure electronic signatures, reducing the need for physical paperwork and streamlining the signing process and document management solutions help individuals and businesses organize, store, and retrieve documents efficiently."
Readdle Limited, established in 2007 and headquartered in Odesa, Ukraine, is a manufacturer of productivity software apps for iPad, iPhone, and Mac devices. The company offers an array of apps, including PDF Expert, Scanner Pro, and Calendars. It aims to shape the future of work with its ecosystem of interconnected apps designed to assist users in managing files, calendars, and tasks. With over 20 million users worldwide, it is ranked as the number one company that creates unique business and productivity apps on the App Store.
Apryse Systems Inc., started in 2000 and located in Vancouver, BC, Canada, is a manufacturer and distributor of proprietary PDF technology. The company produces Able2Extract PRO and slim PDF Reader for desktop, server, and developer products. It offers affiliate programs and resellers who provide local resources for installation, support, and language issues involving products. The company also provides spare parts for horticultural machines and installations of various brands, like Berg Hortimotive, Priva, Revaho, and Empas.
Soda PDF, founded in 2010 and located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a supplier of a group of applications used for opening, creating, viewing, editing, and sharing PDF documents on smartphones, tablets, Macs, and PCs. The software is a subscription service available in three tiers. The Standard tier offers the essential tools for creating, viewing, editing, and converting PDF files. The Pro license includes e-sign software, OCR searching, and commenting capability. The third business option offers phone support, self-service plan management, and various deployment options. The company provides a free 14-day trial subscription with all tools included.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | Texthelp Ltd. |
17.4%
|
2 | Nitro Software, Inc |
13.0%
|
3 | Kdan Mobile Software Ltd. |
13.0%
|
4 | Readdle Limited. |
8.7%
|
5 | PDF Technologies, Inc. |
8.7%
|
6 | Apryse Systems Inc. |
8.7%
|
7 | FoxitJapan |
8.7%
|
8 | Allinpdf |
4.3%
|
9 | PDFgears |
4.3%
|
10 | Wondershare |
4.3%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the pdf reader page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 3 | 42.9% |
Singapore | 2 | 28.6% |
Canada | 1 | 14.3% |
Taiwan | 1 | 14.3% |