Which of the following is not a characteristic of the PDF format?

The PDF format, or Portable Document Format, is designed to be a universal file format that captures the exact look of a document, regardless of the software, hardware, or operating system used to create or view it. Answering the question regarding characteristics of the PDF format, it is crucial to understand its openness and versatility.

The statement that the PDF format is only compatible with Adobe products is incorrect. While Adobe created the PDF standard, numerous software applications across various platforms — including free and open-source programs — can create, view, and edit PDF files. This characteristic makes PDFs widely accessible and versatile, debunking the idea that they are confined to Adobe products only.

Additionally, the PDF format is indeed an open standard, which means its specifications are publicly available and can be implemented by any software developer, contributing to the widespread compatibility of PDF with many different applications. It is also true that PDFs preserve a document’s formatting, ensuring that it appears the same on every device, and while it is a common perception that PDFs cannot be edited, there are tools available that allow for limited editing of PDF content.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the misconception that the PDF format is exclusively tied to Adobe products, when in fact, it is supported by a diverse range