AutoCAD

How to View AutoCAD Files on iPhone

Accessing AutoCAD Files on iPhone

Working on design projects often necessitates the ability to access and manipulate your files on the go. For those using iPhones, there are various approaches to view AutoCAD files efficiently right from your device.

Step 1: Install the AutoCAD Mobile App

The first step in accessing AutoCAD files on your iPhone is to download the AutoCAD mobile app from the App Store. This app is designed specifically to work with AutoCAD files and offers a user-friendly interface for viewing and editing drawings.

  1. Open the App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Search for "AutoCAD."
  3. Locate the AutoCAD mobile app and tap "Get" to download and install it.

Step 2: Sign In or Create an Account

Upon successfully downloading the app, open it and sign in with your Autodesk account. If you do not have an Autodesk account, you can create one directly within the app. This account is necessary for accessing your saved AutoCAD drawings and syncing files.

  1. Launch the AutoCAD mobile app.
  2. Tap on ‘Sign In’ if you already have an account, or choose ‘Create Account’ to register.
  3. Follow the prompts to complete the sign-in or registration process.

Step 3: Upload Your AutoCAD Files

Once you are logged in, you can upload your AutoCAD files for easy access.

  1. Tap on the "+" icon to add new files.
  2. Choose the source from which to upload your drawings. You can select from various options such as cloud storage (e.g., Autodesk Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox) or upload files directly from your iPhone.
  3. Follow the prompts to navigate to the files you wish to upload, and confirm your selection.

Step 4: Open and View Drawings

With your files uploaded, you can now open them to view your drawings.

  1. From the main screen of the app, locate the drawing you want to view.
  2. Tap on the file to load it.
  3. Once the drawing is open, you can pinch to zoom in and out, or swipe to navigate around the drawing area, allowing for detailed examination of your design.

Step 5: Use Viewing Tools

The AutoCAD mobile app provides several tools to enhance your viewing experience.

  1. Use the layers functionality to manage different aspects of your design.
  2. Utilize the measurement tools to get precise dimensions from your drawing.
  3. Take advantage of various viewing modes (such as 2D or 3D views) as required for your specific tasks.

Alternative Methods for Viewing AutoCAD Files

If you need to access AutoCAD files without the mobile app, consider these alternative options:

  • DWG TrueView: This is a free desktop application from Autodesk that allows you to view and print AutoCAD files without needing the full AutoCAD software. While this is not directly applicable to iPhones, it can be used for syncing files that you later access on your device.

  • Cloud-based Services: Many cloud management tools, such as Autodesk Docs or Google Drive, can display AutoCAD files through their interfaces, allowing you to view the drawings in-browser when accessing from your iPhone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I edit AutoCAD files on my iPhone?
Yes, the AutoCAD mobile app allows you to make edits to your AutoCAD files. You can change dimensions, add annotations, and adjust layers as per your needs.

2. Do I need an Autodesk account to use the AutoCAD mobile app?
Yes, an Autodesk account is required to upload, sync, and access your AutoCAD files through the mobile app.

3. Is the AutoCAD mobile app free to use?
The AutoCAD mobile app offers a free version with limited features. For full access, a subscription may be necessary, depending on your usage requirements.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.