Brief Summary
This video explores 15 hidden features of Apple Notes that go beyond basic note-taking. It covers organization with tags and smart folders, security with Face ID locking, collaboration, quick note access, document scanning, Apple Intelligence-powered writing tools, and customization options. The video aims to show users how to use Apple Notes more effectively.
- Tags and Smart Folders for better organization
- Enhanced security with Face ID and password protection
- Collaboration features for shared notes and folders
- QuickNotes for fast note-taking
- Integration with Apple Intelligence for writing assistance
Tags and Smart Folders
Tags can be added anywhere within a note by typing a hashtag followed by the tag name (e.g., #project). These tags allow you to group related notes from different folders. The Notes app lists all tags, and tapping one displays every note with that tag. Smart Folders can be set up to automatically include notes with specific tags; for example, a "Lists" smart folder will show any note tagged with #list.
Lock Notes with Face ID or a Password
iOS 18 allows locking the entire Notes app using Face ID or a password by long-pressing the app icon and selecting "Require Face ID". Individual notes can also be locked by tapping and holding the note and selecting "Lock Note," which can be unlocked using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. The lock can be removed if desired.
Tables
Tables can be added to Apple Notes for comparisons, budgeting, or project planning. A table can be created from scratch by tapping the table icon, or existing text can be converted into a table by selecting the text and then tapping the table icon.
Collaborate on Notes and Folders
Notes and folders can be shared for collaboration, similar to Google Docs. Multiple users can type simultaneously, leave comments, and mention others to notify them. This feature is useful for trip planning, grocery lists, and team projects.
QuickNotes
QuickNotes, initially on iPad, are now fully functional on iPhone. After adding the QuickNote control to the control center, you can swipe down and tap it to open a QuickNote window for jotting down information. QuickNotes are stored in their own folder and can link to apps like Safari, Mail, Messages, and Maps, keeping the note connected to the specific content being viewed.
Scan Documents and Live Text Within Notes
The camera icon allows you to instantly scan documents within a note. The feature detects edges, flattens the image, and uses live text to make the content searchable. Text can also be copied directly from images within a note.
Apple Intelligence
On supported devices, Apple Intelligence provides writing tools to proofread or rewrite notes. Options include "friendly," "professional," and "concise." Large text can be summarized into key points, lists, or tables. Apple Notes is also connected to ChatGPT, allowing users to ask for writing assistance.
Pinned Notes
Important notes can be pinned to the top for easy access by long-tapping and selecting "pin note" or swiping right on the note.
Markup Tools
Apple Notes allows drawing, highlighting, and signing documents natively, which is especially useful on iPad with the Apple Pencil but also works on Mac and iPhone.
Collapsible Headings
Headings and subheadings can be collapsed by clicking the arrow to the left, which helps keep notes neat and tidy, especially for long scripts or outlines.
Swipe Actions on Your iPhone
Swiping right on a note pins it, while swiping left deletes it. Folders can be reordered by dragging and dropping, and folders can be nested within each other for better organization.
Record Phone Calls
iOS 18 allows recording phone calls directly from the call screen, with a transcription automatically saved to the Notes app. Tapping the record button notifies everyone on the call, and the recording is saved in a "phone calls" folder within Apple Notes.
Record Audio and Transcribe It
Audio can be recorded directly within a note by tapping the paperclip icon and selecting "record audio." The speech is transcribed in real-time, and devices with Apple Intelligence can generate auto summaries.
Formatting and Highlighting
Notes has improved formatting tools, including options for titles, headings, bullets, checklists, and block quotes, accessible via the "AA" button. While text color cannot be changed, text can be highlighted by selecting it, tapping the "AA" button, then the pen icon, and choosing a color.
Quickly Jump Between Notes
In iOS 18, a shortcut allows quick switching between recently opened notes. By tapping the three dots in the top right corner while editing a note and selecting "recent notes," you can easily navigate between the last few notes opened.
