Microsoft's new Journal app isn't just a OneNote clone

The Journal app is on Windows 10, is built for inking, and is made by Microsoft, but it's not just a copy of OneNote.

What you need to know

• Microsoft Garage recently launched the Journal app.
• It's an ink-first app with gestures and other features that make it easier to take notes with a digital pen.
• A new video from Microsoft shows the app in action and highlights its unique features.

Microsoft launched an app called Journal last week. The app provides an ink-first experience for taking notes. It has Ink Gestures, so you don't have to jump around between different modes, and has a page-based canvas experience that's optimized for tablets.

Some around the web compared the app to OneNote, which at first glance is a natural comparison. Both apps are from Microsoft, support inking, and are for taking notes. But Journal isn't just a OneNote clone; it has several features that make it unique. A new video from Microsoft shows the app in action.

With the Journal app, Microsoft is testing out ways that people can ink more efficiently. Journal's ink-first interface supports gestures that make it so you don't have to tap around for different modes or features. For example, you can cross out text to delete it and circle text to see several options. The app can tell when you've drawn a bullet point list or starred an item. You can also "@" people by drawing the "@" symbol and tapping on their icon.

Microsoft's OneNote and other apps also have inking features, but Journal has enough unique features to make it stand out.

It's also important to note that Journal is a Microsoft Garage project. These projects provide an experimental outlet to test out ideas and features. They aren't meant to compete with or replace Microsoft's other offerings.

Sometimes, Microsoft Garage apps expand, such as Arrow Launcher becoming Microsoft Launcher. In other cases, the project can be completed but not be developed any further, such as Plumbago. In both types of cases, Microsoft receives feedback and can use it to either make a new app or improve existing apps.

Journal, a Microsoft Garage project

Free at Microsoft Store

Journal is an ink-first app built for taking notes. It uses AI to improve input through Ink Gestures.