FlexiPDF editor with new functions and AI

Softmaker is now offering a new version of its PDF editor FlexiPDF. The Nuremberg-based manufacturer advertises the editor as a "word processor for PDF files" because it is supposed to make editing them as easy as using a standard text program. Flexi-PDF also has a spell checker, a separator and, in addition to the comment function, a change tracking function. One of the program's special features is the ability to compare two versions of a document by displaying them side by side, scrolling in parallel and highlighting differences.

The editor is available in a one-time purchase version (FlexiPDF 2025) and as a subscription (FlexiPDF NX). The new version has learned a few new things: the editor now supports tabs to open several documents at the same time, displays individual pages side by side on request to make better use of widescreen monitors and has made the dark mode even darker.

Another new feature is the snapshot function, which takes a screenshot of a rectangular PDF area. You can also scroll when selecting, but not across multiple pages. Unlike standard screenshot tools such as Windows' own, the resolution of the generated bitmaps is not limited to the relatively low 72 to 160 dpi of the monitor, but can be freely selected in steps up to 1200 dpi.

AI functions only for subscribers

Softmaker emphasizes the integration of AI functions as a special highlight, but these are reserved for FlexiPDF NX subscribers; they are not available in the one-time purchase version. ChatGPT can also be used to summarize the content of longer documents. DeepL translates documents (only) page by page into one of 30 languages, whereby the program makes every effort to retain the original layout. In both cases, the user must first approve the transfer of content to the respective external services and ensure that they are authorized to pass it on. The AI functions are similar to the features that have been available for some time in the text program Office NX, which also comes from Softmaker. However, the interaction with ChatGPT is somewhat more flexible and also allows users to rewrite text passages or formulate their own prompts. FlexiPDF is limited to summarizing the content.

In addition, communication with ChatGPT is limited to a quota of five million characters –, which includes both the texts sent to the AI and its responses. Once this number has been reached, the account can only be replenished by renewing the subscription early. The same applies to translations using DeepL. The limit here is 750,000 characters.

FlexiPDF runs on all Windows versions from 7. The one-time purchase version PlexiPDF 2025 without AI functions costs just under 100 euros; the subscription for FlexiPDF NX costs around 40 euros per year. Interested parties can try out the program free of charge, but will have to live with a watermark in edited documents.

(swi)