How do I add a video to a PDF using Adobe Acrobat?

Open your PDF in Acrobat and go to 'All tools' > 'Add rich media'. Select the 'Video' tool and drag a rectangle on your page where the video should appear. Choose your video file (MP4, MOV, M4V, or 3GP with H.264 codec). Acrobat will embed the video, making it playable directly within the PDF for users with Acrobat or Reader.

What is Rich Media in a PDF and why does it matter?

Rich Media refers to interactive elements like video, audio, and 3D models embedded directly into a PDF. It matters because it makes PDFs more engaging and informative than static text and images. For example, a product catalog can show a rotating 3D model, or a training manual can include a video demonstration, improving understanding and user experience. However, it's important to know that not all PDF viewers support rich media, so your audience might need Adobe Acrobat or Reader.

If I add an audio file to my PDF, will everyone be able to hear it?

If you add an audio file to your PDF, people using Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader will be able to hear it. However, if someone uses a different PDF viewer (like a web browser's built-in PDF viewer or another company's PDF software), they might not be able to play the audio. It's best to tell your audience to use Acrobat or Reader if the audio is important for them to experience.

Why should I use specific video and audio formats for Rich Media in Acrobat?

You should use specific video and audio formats like MP4 (with H.264) for video and MP3 for audio because these are the formats Acrobat is designed to play reliably. Using other formats might cause issues where the media does not play correctly or at all for your users. Sticking to the recommended formats ensures the best compatibility and experience within Adobe Acrobat and Reader.

What types of 3D models can I embed in a PDF using Acrobat Pro?

You can embed 3D models in U3D format. You can also embed 3D models in PRC format.

Embed media using Acrobat JavaScript API — How-to & AI prompts

AI prompts

3 ways to ask · copy any one

AExecute — “help me do it”Show me how to embed [image/video/audio] in a PDF using...…+

Show me how to embed a [image/video/audio] file into a PDF using the Acrobat JavaScript API. The media file is [file path or URL] and should appear on page [number] at position [coordinates].

when the reply comes backWant to add clickable links to your embedded media?

BImprove — “do it better”How can I make my media embedding code more reliable or...…+

How can I make my Acrobat JavaScript API code for embedding media into PDFs more reliable or efficient? Here is my current code: [paste code].

when the reply comes backNeed help with user permissions for media in PDFs?

CDecide — “help me choose”Should I use image, video, or audio for my PDF, and where...…+

Should I embed an image, video, or audio file for my PDF use case? Also, where is the best place to put it on the page for [describe document purpose]?

when the reply comes backCurious about automating media embedding for many PDFs?

How to do it

the tool · the steps · what to avoid

1
Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
2
Press Ctrl+J (Windows) or Cmd+J (Mac) to open the JavaScript console.
3
In the console, define a new RichMedia annotation using the addAnnot method, specifying the type as 'RichMedia' and the rectangle coordinates for placement.
Best practiceUse precise rectangle coordinates to avoid overlapping existing content or annotations.
4
Use the setRichMediaData method on the annotation object to attach your media file (e.g., SWF, MP4, or 3D file) as an embedded asset.
CautionOnly supported media formats (such as SWF, FLV, MP4, or U3D/PRC for 3D) will function correctly in Acrobat.
5
Configure the annotation's activation and deactivation settings by setting the RichMedia activation properties (such as autoPlay or trigger events) via JavaScript.
6
Optionally, add JavaScript event listeners to the annotation to programmatically control playback, pause, or other media actions.
Best practiceRefer to the Acrobat JavaScript API documentation for supported RichMedia methods and events.
7
Save the PDF to persist the embedded media and scripting changes.

In the appWith the API

You can use Acrobat's JavaScript console to insert and script rich media elements directly into your PDF.

This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.

Glossary

words on this page

EmbedTo put something, like a file or image, inside another file.ExampleYou can embed a short video clip directly into your presentation slide.

Acrobat JavaScript APIA set of commands that lets you control PDFs using code in Adobe Acrobat.ExampleDevelopers use the Acrobat JavaScript API to create custom buttons that automate PDF workflows.

EndpointA web address your code sends requests to for a specific job.ExampleThe app sends your payment details to a secure endpoint on the server to process the transaction.

The real tasks

the one, listed here

Fixing the chronic drift in my client records

FAQ

about this task

To embed an image, you use a JavaScript command that places the image file at a chosen spot in the PDF. You need to provide the image path and set its location and size. The code runs when the PDF is opened in Acrobat.

You can embed images (like JPG or PNG), audio files, and video files into PDFs using the API. However, make sure the PDF viewer supports playing these media types for the best experience.

Yes, embedding means the media file is stored inside the PDF, so it travels with the document. Linking means the PDF points to a file outside, which can break if the file moves or is deleted.

Using the API lets you automate the process, which is faster and more consistent, especially when you need to add media to many PDFs or want to integrate it into an app or workflow.

Yes, you can set the exact page, position, and size for your media using the API. You just need to provide the coordinates and dimensions in your code.

Embed media using Acrobat JavaScript API

When to use it

AI prompts

How to do it

Glossary

The real tasks

Who does this

FAQ

Sources

Adobe help