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Flatten PDF
Convert interactive form fields and annotations into static page content.
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How to Flatten PDF
- Choose a PDF containing interactive form fields or annotations.
- Flatten interactive form fields and annotations into page graphics.
- Review the flattened copy and download it.
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What Happens to Your File
OxnaPDF first refreshes missing widget and annotation appearance streams in browser memory using its local PDF engine, then converts each normal appearance stream (/AP /N) into a static Form XObject drawn directly in the page's /Contents stream.
Finally, the tool removes the interactive /Annots arrays and /AcroForm dictionary from the new PDF copy and verifies that the flattened text remains visible and searchable while your original editable PDF stays untouched.
Limits
- Accepts unencrypted PDFs up to 100 MB and 500 pages for form and annotation flattening.
- Flattens interactive AcroForm widgets and visual markup annotations into static vector page graphics; once flattened, fields cannot be clicked or edited.
- Popup window objects (/Popup) and hyperlink regions (/Link) are not drawn as visual appearances; if you want to strip hyperlinks or hidden scripts, use Remove Annotations or Sanitise PDF.
Good to Know
- Unlike image-only rasterisation tools, Flatten PDF keeps your body text and flattened field appearances as crisp vector graphics so text stays selectable and file size stays small.
- Always keep your unflattened original PDF if you might need to update form entries or move annotations later.
- If you need to fill in or add form fields before locking them, use PDF Forms and enable its Flatten option when exporting.
Questions
- What Does Flattening a PDF Do?
- It converts interactive form fields and annotations into permanent page graphics that cannot be edited.
- Can Flattened Form Fields Be Edited Later?
- No, flattened fields become static page content, so keep your original PDF if you need editable fields.
- Does Flatten PDF Run Locally in My Browser?
- Yes, flattening runs locally in your browser on OxnaPDF's own engine without uploading your file.
- Does Flattening Turn My PDF Into Unsearchable Page Images?
- No, Flatten PDF bakes widget and annotation appearance streams into the vector page content so text remains sharp and selectable.
- How Does Flatten PDF Differ From Remove Annotations?
- Flatten PDF keeps the visual appearance of your notes and form values on the page, whereas Remove Annotations deletes annotations completely.