How to Create a PDF File in Android Studio Using Storage Access Framework and Kotlin

Learn how to generate a PDF file in Android using the Storage Access Framework and Kotlin. This step-by-step guide will provide clear instructions and sample code for capturing a PDF document.
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Creating a PDF File in Android Using Storage Access Framework

If you're a beginner Android/Kotlin programmer, you might have encountered challenges while trying to generate PDF files within your app. You've recently tried using itextpdf:itext7 to create basic PDF documents stored in an internal location, but those files were inaccessible to users. Fortunately, there's a solution to this dilemma using the Storage Access Framework (SAF).

In this guide, we will explore how to properly create a PDF file that can be saved in a user-accessible location using Kotlin in Android Studio. We will break down the process step-by-step for better understanding and implementation.

The Need for Storage Access Framework

Android applications that store files only in internal storage make it difficult for users to access them. To allow users to choose where to save files more dynamically, the Storage Access Framework (SAF) provides a user-friendly way to manage stored documents and files. Using SAF, users can pick any location to save their files, including cloud services.

Steps to Create a PDF

1. Setting Up the Environment

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

2. Requesting User Permissions

To enable users to save a PDF file, initiate the SAF operation when the user clicks a button. In your MainActivity, you will need to set up an ActivityResultLauncher to handle the file creation request.

Sample Code Structure

Here's how your MainActivity class should look:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

3. Important Modifications

In order to resolve your issue of application crashes and improperly saving the PDF, ensure you modify the PDF writing section as follows:

Replace this block of code:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

With the corrected version:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This change ensures that you're directly writing the PDF content through the output stream obtained from the URI, preventing crashes and allowing proper access.

4. Testing Your Application

Once you've implemented the above code, run your application and click on the "Create PDF" button. You should then be prompted to select a location to save your PDF. After you pick a location, the PDF should be generated and available for viewing.

Conclusion

Creating a PDF using the Storage Access Framework in Android can be straightforward once you understand the process. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can let users save PDF files in a location of their choice, significantly enhancing the usability of your app.

Should you encounter any issues, ensure this code structure is followed, and feel free to refer back to this guide.

Happy coding!