Fix Blank PDF Icons in Windows File Explorer When Default Viewer is Set to Chrome

Windows 11 provides users with the flexibility to designate their preferred application or browser as the default PDF viewer. Given that many individuals opt for Google Chrome, this browser typically handles the opening of PDF files.

Recently, however, a notable number of users have reported a perplexing issue where the PDF icons in Windows File Explorer are appearing blank. This anomaly has left users feeling bewildered and irritated as they manage their PDF documents.

The problem appears to be widespread, with additional reports surfacing in the past week. Interestingly, we tested this on our own device and did not experience the same issue.

This isn’t an unprecedented situation. Microsoft has a history of trying to entice Chrome users into making the switch to Edge, whether that’s through its Rewards program or by outright taking Chrome tabs.

It’s possible that this is simply a bug that arose from recent updates. While adjusting the default PDF viewer may have no effect, updating Google Chrome or performing a reinstall might resolve the problem. Some users have found success with these methods, so ensure that your Chrome browser is up to date if you are facing this issue.

To check for updates in Chrome, navigate to Settings > About Chrome, where the browser will automatically seek and apply any available updates.

If you wish to uninstall Chrome, go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > Uninstall Google Chrome from the list and then proceed to reinstall it.

Please share if these remedies resolved the missing PDF icon issue for you on Windows.

PDF icons are appearing blank in Windows Explorer across all my devices when Chrome is set as the default PDF viewer. This feels suspicious. by u/harvester3737 in chrome

As of yesterday, 10/22/2024, my. pdf files no longer display the Chrome icon when I set Chrome as my default PDF viewer. I have no clue why this icon has vanished, making folder navigation quite challenging. I’ve attempted clearing my icon cache and rebooting, switching my default viewer to another application and then back to Chrome, as well as replacing the Chrome icon. What’s happening, Windows? I’m aware that Windows updates occur on Tuesday nights, so why this alteration?

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