Google is continuing to improve and rethink how searching for things can work on phones and tablets through a more immersive design and a new gesture in Android 14 QPR1.
Hold handle to search
A new toggle for “Hold handle to search” has been spotted in the Settings app, which would allow users to invoke search by holding down on the navigation handle at the bottom of the screen.
It is unclear exactly how this new screen search capability will work, but it is possible that it could be a quick shortcut to sending an image/screenshot to Google Lens, or even a revival of the once-beloved Google Now on Tap feature.
Floating search bar
Android Authority has also spotted that the Pixel Launcher is once again tweaking the way that search works. Rather than putting the search bar at the top of the screen, it will now appear as a floating button when you open your app drawer. When you’re typing out your query, the search bar hovers just above your keyboard. This makes the search bar easier to reach single-handedly.
This is just a beta release, so it is possible that these features could change or be removed before the final release of Android 14 QPR1. However, it is clear that Google is committed to improving the search experience on Android.
Additional information
The new gesture search feature is particularly interesting, as it could be a way for Google to bring back some of the functionality of Google Now on Tap, which was a popular feature that allowed users to get quick information about what was visible on their screen.
The floating search bar feature is also a nice touch, as it makes it easier to search for apps and files without having to leave the app drawer.
Overall, it is encouraging to see Google continue to invest in improving the search experience on Android. These new features in Android 14 QPR1 could make it even easier and more convenient to find what you’re looking for on your phone or tablet.
The iPhone’s Notes app might seem like a simple tool at first, but its features extend far beyond basic note-taking. Whether you’re jotting down reminders, crafting a shopping list, or collaborating on a project, Notes provides a versatile platform to keep your ideas organized and accessible. One of its standout features is the ability to share notes effortlessly, making it an excellent option for communication and teamwork. This guide will walk you through various ways to share a note and collaborate effectively.
Sharing Notes: The Basics
The Notes app allows you to share your ideas quickly, whether as a static note or in a collaborative environment. Here’s how to get started:
Sending a Copy of a Note
If you need to share information without allowing edits, you can send a static copy of your note. This method ensures your content remains unaltered while still providing recipients with the details they need.
Steps to send a copy of a note:
Open the Notes app on your iPhone.
Select the note you wish to share.
Tap the Share icon (a box with an upward-pointing arrow). Choose Send Copy from the options.
Select your preferred sharing method, such as email, Messages, or third-party apps like WhatsApp.
This approach is ideal for straightforward communication where collaboration isn’t required.
Real-Time Collaboration: Sharing and Editing Notes Together For tasks that require input from others, such as brainstorming sessions or shared to-do lists, the Notes app offers collaboration features. With iCloud, you can invite others to view and edit notes or even share an entire folder.
Preparing for Collaboration Before you begin:
Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version.
Verify that iCloud is enabled on both your device and the recipient’s device.
Steps to Collaborate on a Single Note
Open the Notes app.
Select the note you want to share. Tap the Share icon.
Choose Collaborate from the menu. Set permissions:
Under Who Can Access, select Only invited people for added privacy or Anyone with the link for broader access. Under Permissions, choose between Can make changes or View only.
Decide if others can invite additional collaborators by toggling the Allow others to invite option.
Share the invitation through your preferred method, such as Messages or Mail.
Steps to Collaborate on a Folder
If you want to share multiple notes, you can collaborate on an entire folder:
Open the Notes app and navigate to the folder you wish to share.
Tap the More Options icon (three dots) and select Collaborate. Configure permissions as described above. Share the folder using Messages, Mail, or other supported platforms.
Tips for Smooth Collaboration
Stay Updated on Edits: When a shared note is modified, you’ll receive notifications (especially if shared via Messages). Tap these updates to view changes in real-time.
Control Access: Use the appropriate permissions to manage who can view or edit the note. For sensitive content, restrict access to specific individuals.
Undo Mistakes: Even in collaborative notes, you can undo edits to correct errors or unintended changes.
Organize with Folders: For group projects or ongoing tasks, sharing folders can streamline access and keep everything organized.
Monitor iCloud Storage: Ensure sufficient iCloud storage is available for seamless sharing, especially if your notes include attachments or media.
Why Use the Notes App for Sharing?
While messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram dominate personal communication, the Notes app offers a dedicated space for focused collaboration. Its features are designed to minimize distractions, making it ideal for structured teamwork. Whether you’re coordinating plans, sharing a checklist, or brainstorming ideas, the Notes app provides the tools needed for effective communication and productivity.
Conclusion
Sharing and collaborating through the iPhone Notes app unlocks its full potential as more than just a note-taking tool. By leveraging its sharing capabilities, you can simplify communication, enhance productivity, and manage teamwork with ease. Whether you’re working on a quick note or an extensive project, understanding how to share a note ensures you make the most of this versatile app.
With the release of iOS 18, Apple Maps gained several new features for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and watchOS devices. These updates include shuttle schedule integration, improved topographic maps, the ability to save custom walking and hiking routes, and a new Places Library system for storing your favorite spots and routes.
One of the less talked about but incredibly useful features is the ability to add custom notes to any location on the map. This feature allows users to attach personalized notes to map locations, making it especially helpful for trip planning or research. The feature is straightforward and easy to use, so there’s no need for a learning curve.
By simply selecting a location on the map, you can add any information you might want to reference later as a custom note. It’s like creating a personal log for a spot, with a digital twist for easier navigation and planning. This feature is great for organizing upcoming trips, especially when you have multiple destinations. What’s more, all your custom notes are saved locally in your Apple Maps Places Library, allowing you to access them easily.
Steps to Add Custom Notes in Apple Maps
Before adding custom notes, make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 18 and that you’re using the latest version of the Apple Maps app. These steps will also work on an iPad. Here’s how to add custom notes:
Open Apple Maps: Start by opening the Apple Maps app on your iPhone or iPad.
Find a Location: Search for the location you want to add a note to, and open its details page.
Open More Options: In the upper-right corner of the location details, tap the “More” button.
Add a Note: In the menu that pops up, select “Add a Note.”
Write Your Note: Type your custom note for that location.
Save the Note: After writing your note, tap “Done” in the top-right corner to save it.
Once saved, the note will appear above the image carousel in the location’s details on Apple Maps. Adding a note will also automatically save the location to your Places Library for future reference.
Benefits of Custom Notes
This feature is especially useful because the notes are private, viewable only by you. Unlike public reviews, your custom notes stay personal, making them perfect for planning trips or storing personal information about specific locations.
Now that you know how to add custom notes, you can easily make Apple Maps a more personalized tool for organizing and planning your travel and research needs.
