Windows File Explorer error "error in pdf preview handler"

Question

Hi, I am not able to see pdf previews while clicking on the file to choose, from any browser or application.

There seems to be a problem with windows explorer. Here's the error.

"This file can't be previewed because of an error in the PDF Preview Handler."

Note:

Sumatra pdf is the default pdf reader in Windows default app settings

Adobe reader is installed

Microsoft edge is installed

Windows 10

Please help. Thanks.

EDIT: Thanks to Sumit D this problem was due to PowerToys which got solved by enabling pdf preview for file explorer pane.

Answer 1

Hi Mister,

I'm Sumit, here to answer your query at the Microsoft Community.

Let us install the Powertoys preview handler too in a hope it works.

Download Powertoys:

https://aks.ms/getpowertoys

https://www.yourwindowsguide.com/2024/05/all-ab...

Customers can use several File Explorer add-ons to enhance the user experience. The following list describes the same.

Enable Thumbnail preview for SVG, PDF, and source code files like C, code, etc., which are not natively supported.

Content on the above blog is written by a Windows MVP, so it is safe. However, do watch out for the ads.