MC1192663 - SharePoint: OneDrive and SharePoint – recognize text in PDFs

Updated February 27, 2026: We have updated the content. Thank you for your patience. 

Introduction

Turn scanned PDF files into editable, searchable text using built-in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in the OneDrive mobile app. This feature helps users reuse information, speed up document workflows, and make content easier to find.

When this will happen:

General Availability for Worldwide, GCC, and GCCH: Rollout begins early January 2026 (previously mid-December 2025) and is expected to complete by early February 2026 (previously late January).

How this affects your organization:

Who is affected: All users of OneDrive mobile apps on iOS and Android.

What will happen:

• Users can recognize text in scanned PDF files directly within the OneDrive mobile app.
• The feature is enabled by default.
• To use the feature:
1. Open the OneDrive mobile app.
2. Open the scanned PDF you want to make searchable.
3. Long-press the page and select Recognize Text (on iOS) or Recognize text (on Android).
4. After OCR completes, users will see the message: Text is now selectable.

What you can do to prepare:

• No action is required from admins.
• Some users may see this feature before others as rollout progresses.
• Communicate this change to helpdesk staff to assist users with the new functionality.
• Update internal documentation if you provide guidance on OneDrive mobile features.

Learn more: How to use optical character recognition to read PDFs in OneDrive - Microsoft Support 

Compliance considerations:

No compliance considerations identified; review as appropriate for your organization.