Release Notes | Acrobat, Reader

Why should I update?

Security and improved functionality. Updates safeguard your system against malicious attacks through PDF files.

If you've gotten multiple update messages, make sure the last update is fully installed. Some browsers download to a separate update window. In these browsers, double-click the Reader or Acrobat file to complete the installation.

Which Acrobat/Acrobat Reader track should I install - Continuous or Classic?

For information on how to choose the right track for your needs, see Acrobat product tracks.

Are updates free?

Yes. Only new, major versions of Acrobat must be purchased.

How long is the installation time?

Updates take only a few minutes to install.

How do I change the update frequency or disable updates?

In Acrobat or Acrobat Reader, go to Edit > Preferences > Categories > Updater and set a Check For Updates option. For more information, see Automatic updates.

How do admins and enterprise IT get more information?

Visit Enterprise Toolkit for Acrobat Products for more information.

Acrobat and Acrobat Reader Continuous Track release notes

^¡̐ In this release, there are different versions of the application: Windows and macOS.

Acrobat Classic Track release notes

Acrobat 2020 and Acrobat Reader 2020 (Classic Track) release notes

Release notes for older versions

*Release types

Major release: A major, functional release with many new and improved features developed on an 18 month release cycle.

Continuous release (C): A functional release with some new and improved features along with new security updates, bug fixes for existing features, and previously released out-of-cycle patch updates.

Quarterly update (Q): A scheduled update that includes functional improvements, new security updates, and previously released out-of-cycle patch updates. For Reader, these updates are sometimes available as full installers.

Out-of-cycle patch (OOC): An update targeted at security fixes. These noncumulative patch files may contain few functional updates with the intention to limit impact.

Optional Update: An update targeted at a narrow set of functional fixes with limited impact. Adobe recommends that you apply these patches if you are seeing an impact by one of more of the functional fixes being delivered.

Note: Continuous releases, quarterly updates, out-of-cycle patches and optional updates can provide security enhancements. Adobe recommends that all updates and patches be applied when available.