DjVu file won't open on iPhone or iPad? How to fix it
Updated October 15, 20262 min read
If a .djvu file shows a blank icon, an error or won't open at all, one of these is almost always the reason. Go through them in order.
1. It's opening in the wrong app
The Files app and Apple Books can't show DjVu, so you see a blank icon. Tap the file, tap Share and choose DjVu Reader. If you don't have it yet, follow how to open DjVu files on iPhone.
2. The download didn't finish
A file that stopped halfway is broken. In Files, touch and hold it and tap Get Info: a book that should be several megabytes but shows a few kilobytes is incomplete. Download it again, ideally on Wi‑Fi.
3. It's still in iCloud
A cloud icon next to the file in Files means it isn't on your device yet. Tap it to download, wait until the icon disappears, then open it again.
4. It's inside a ZIP or RAR
Books are often shared in archives. Tap a ZIP in Files to unpack it, then open the .djvu file inside. RAR and 7z need an unarchiver app from the App Store.
5. The name has the wrong ending
DjVu Reader opens files ending in .djvu or .djv. If a DjVu file was saved as “book.djvu.download” or with no ending, touch and hold it in Files, tap Rename and fix the ending.
6. It's a multi-file (indirect) DjVu
Some sites store each page as its own file with a small index file. Downloading only the index gives you a book that can't open. Look for a single-file (bundled) download of the same book.
7. You've used your free uploads
The free version includes 3 book uploads. After that, DjVu Reader shows the Pro screen instead of opening a new book. Upgrade to Pro for unlimited books.
8. The file itself is damaged
If other DjVu books open fine, this one may be corrupted. Try downloading it from another source. Still stuck? Email the file to support@djvu.app and we'll take a look.
Common questions
- Why does my DjVu file show a blank icon?
- Because iPhone and iPad don't support DjVu, so the Files app can't draw a preview. The file is usually fine: open it in a DjVu app.
- Does DjVu Reader open .djv files?
- Yes. It opens both .djvu and .djv files.
- Do I need internet to read?
- No. Your books are stored on your device, so you can read, search and use Read Aloud offline.
Open your first DjVu book.
Free on the App Store for iPhone and iPad.
