Below is a comprehensive English introduction to Goodnotes, covering its origin, core functions, product tiers, and device compatibility, based on official details and key features:
Goodnotes is a leading digital note - taking application that has redefined how users capture, organize, and share ideas since its launch. Founded in 2011 by Steven Chan, a former maths student in Australia who sought to solve the hassle of losing physical notes, the app has grown from a simple iPad - focused tool to a cross - platform solution with millions of monthly active users. Headquartered in Hong Kong with an additional office in London established in 2020, Goodnotes Limited (formerly Time Base Technology) has built a team that drives its continuous innovation.
Goodnotes stands out with its user - friendly design and powerful capabilities, adapting to both individual and team needs:
- Diverse Note - Taking & Annotation ToolsIt excels in simulating natural handwriting, especially when paired with styluses like the Apple Pencil. Users can not only take handwritten notes but also annotate PDFs, PowerPoints, and e - books effortlessly. A standout feature is handwriting search, which lets users locate content in handwritten notes within seconds. Additionally, the Elements Tool enables the reuse of stickers, stamps, and other elements across notes.
- Expanded Creative CanvasesThe revamped version introduces two new document types alongside traditional notebooks. Whiteboards provide an infinite space for brainstorming, structured diagrams, and mind maps, complemented by a new shapes tool. Text documents offer smooth typing experiences, supporting lists, images, tables, and video inserts, with all elements easily reformatted and rearranged.
- AI - Powered AssistanceGoodnotes AI serves as a collaborative co - creator, helping users understand, organize, and refine their notes. It can transcribe meeting content, generate summaries, and assist in polishing draft notes, allowing users to focus more on content itself rather than tedious documentation work.
- Seamless Sync & CollaborationIt supports iCloud sync for Apple devices and extends cross - device access to Android and Microsoft platforms. The real - time collaboration feature enables multiple users to work on the same notebook simultaneously, making it ideal for team brainstorming and remote workshops. Users can share links, add comments, and maintain consistent progress with teammates.
The latest version of Goodnotes offers two tailored tiers to meet different user demands:
- Goodnotes Essential: As an upgraded core plan, it includes the classic note - taking tools and the two new document types (whiteboards and text documents), catering to individual users and casual creators.
- Goodnotes Pro: This tier focuses on advanced collaboration features, designed specifically for teams and businesses to enhance teamwork efficiency.
Goodnotes has achieved remarkable milestones in its evolution. Goodnotes 5 launched in 2019 with a redesigned interface and a free upgrade for existing users, followed by a Mac version later that year. Key updates included real - time collaboration in 2020 and a community note - sharing platform in 2021. Localized into over 13 languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and German, it now runs on Apple, Android, and Microsoft devices, enabling users worldwide to access a seamless digital note - taking experience.
