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Question

PDF attachments now download instead of previewing (previously preview worked)

  • January 26, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 40 views

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Previously, PDF files stored in Attachment fields would open with an inline preview inside Airtable.

Recently, clicking the same PDF files now forces a direct download ("Save as" dialog) instead of showing the preview.

This happens even though:
- The field is still an Attachment field
- The file type is PDF
- The file opens correctly if re-uploaded manually

This behavior worked correctly before and appears to have changed recently.

Is this an intentional change in Airtable’s attachment preview behavior, or a regression?
If intentional, what is the recommended way to maintain inline previews for PDFs generated via automations or external sources?

2 replies

RyanH_7G
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  • Participating Frequently
  • January 26, 2026

This is a known problem that started happening Friday. There is a larger thread here.  AT Engineering and Support have replied to multiple users that they are looking into the problem.


Mike_AutomaticN
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Yup, as mentioned above this is an issue that has been going on for a few days now. You will want to subscribe to the thread linked above by ​@RyanH_7G to keep updated on any news shared on such topic, and you will also want to email support@airtable.com

Mike, Consultant @ Automatic Nation 
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