After GoodNotes switched to Version 7, I immediately started looking for a new note-taking app; otherwise, I was frustrated enough to break my iPad. During this time, I used other applications and discovered many features that I wish GoodNotes had.
I downloaded the latest version on December 14, and while almost all bugs were fixed, there are still critical issues preventing me from using GoodNotes as my daily driver.
Here is a detailed summary of the issues and suggestions:
1. Background Contrast:
When the iPad is in Dark Mode, the workspace background behind the paper is too dark. I wish there were a dark gray (anthracite) color or customizable theme options for this specific area.
2. Sticker Visibility (Critical):
This is a major deal-breaker. I create stickers by drawing shapes with a black pen. In Dark Mode, these are completely invisible. I have to turn off Dark Mode to see them, but then the background becomes white and blends with my paper template, causing visual confusion.
3. Text Tool Issues:
• Presets: Having only one default text style is limiting. I need multiple text style presets that I can quickly switch between for different templates. (See attached screenshot).
• Text Box Size: The text boxes are excessively large. Even when using the default font, there is unnecessary padding between the text and the box borders. This causes significant clutter when there are multiple text elements on the page.
• Selection Conflict: Because of the large text boxes, when I try to select an image located behind or near a text, I accidentally select the text box instead. I then have to go into the Lasso Tool settings to disable text selection, which is a very tedious and inefficient workflow.
4. Document Dark Mode:
A feature to invert/convert the document itself to Dark Mode is needed. I have attached before-and-after screenshots from another app as an example.
5. Image Borders:
I often take photos of whiteboards in class to add to my notes. However, since the whiteboard and my digital paper are similar in color, the image blends in and is hard to distinguish. It would be incredibly useful to have a feature that adds borders or frames to images automatically.
6. Page Expansion / Margins:
When importing lecture slides (PDFs), professors often leave no empty space for notes. I need the ability to expand the page boundaries or add extra margins around the imported document so I can write notes on the sides. This functionality exists in almost all other note-taking applications.
Given the premium price of GoodNotes, I expect more comprehensive features, such as a built-in scientific calculator, a custom template creation tool (down to adjustable line spacing/thickness), a more compact audio recording interface, and a built-in video player.
Thank you for considering this feedback.