FAQ

FAQ

Status: no release exists yet, so these answers describe the plan. See Roadmap and status for what is done.

Basics

What is OpenNote?

An open-source note-taking app for Windows that combines writing, drawing, and recording in one notebook. See Home.

Can I use it today?

Not yet. Phase 0 (the foundation) and Phase 1 (four experiments) are done. The app itself is built in Phases 2 to 14. Test builds may appear after Phase 2, when the self-updater arrives. A public beta opens in Phase 13, and version 1.0.0 is planned for Phase 14.

Is it free?

Yes. OpenNote is open source under the Apache License 2.0. Anyone can use, change, and share it.

Which systems does it run on?

Windows 10 (version 22H2) and Windows 11 come first, as 64-bit, 32-bit, and Arm64 builds. macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android follow the Windows release.

Do I need an account?

No. OpenNote works without one, and offline. Linking a Google or Microsoft account is optional. See Privacy and your data.

Your notes

Where are my notes stored?

In plain folders on your PC, by default in Documents\OpenNote\. Each page also keeps a readable page.md copy, so your notes stay useful without OpenNote.

Can I bring notes from OneNote, Evernote, or Obsidian?

That is planned for Phase 11. See Import and export.

Will an update ever delete my notes?

No. Updates are designed never to touch your notes. The exe holds only the program, and your notes live elsewhere. Updates also wait for unsaved changes and recordings, and back up files before upgrading them. See Installing and updating.

Does it sync across devices?

Not in the first Windows release. Folder-based sync comes first after that, then an optional self-hosted server. You will be able to keep your notes folder inside a service such as OneDrive or Dropbox, and OpenNote will explain what that means. See Notebooks, sections, and pages.

Features

Can I write with a pen?

Yes. Ink is a core feature, planned for Phase 5. Phase 1 measured pen speed, and a check with a real pen is still to do. See Ink and drawing.

Can it record a lecture or meeting?

That is planned for Phase 9. It records the microphone and, optionally, system audio, and ties your notes to the sound. See Audio recording.

Does it use AI?

Only on your device, and only if you turn it on. Features such as transcription and handwriting recognition run locally, and nothing leaves the PC. See On-device intelligence.

Will it run on my phone or tablet?

Android and iOS apps come after the Windows release. The layout is designed to work from phones to wide monitors.

Getting involved

How can I help?

Read the Developer guide and CONTRIBUTING.md. Bug reports, fixes, documentation, and design work are welcome.

How do I report a security problem?

Privately, as the security policy describes. Never use a public issue.