Key findings
- Google Keep is expected to offer a lock screen note-taking feature with Android 15, and it looks like Microsoft OneNote will follow suit.
- Code found in a beta version of OneNote suggests that users can set the app as their default note-taking app, a prerequisite for lock screen functionality.
- It is unclear whether Microsoft will be able to introduce support in time with Android 15
In December last year, we reported on how Google Keep was working on developing a feature that would allow users to take notes directly from the lock screen. The shortcut would essentially launch your default note app, and while support was expected for Android 14, it’s not available. We now expect the feature to be a treat for Android 15, and alongside Google Keep, there’s another note-taking app vying to become the default app on your phone.
Related
Google Keep prepares for Android 14’s new note-taking feature
The change could be useful for tablet and pen users
Code found by folks at Android Authority in the beta version of Microsoft OneNote (v16.0.17928.20054) suggests that the app is also working on developing a lock screen note-taking feature, with Android 15 likely to support setting default note-taking apps.
It should be noted that support has to be built by the developers themselves, meaning you won’t be able to use another note-taking app directly from the lock screen, even if you set it as the default app. The feature will only work with apps that have backend support, like Google Keep and presumably OneNote.
Race against the Android 15 clock
Related
You’ll soon be able to take notes directly from your Android tablet’s lock screen
A lock screen shortcut is planned for apps like Google Keep
The strings found clearly point to “Allow OneNote as the default note-taking app” and a “shortcut to take notes on the lock screen,” paired with toggle options to enable or disable lock screen notes.
The code also suggests that apps like OneNote will need certain permissions to work on the lock screen. Once these are enabled, users will be able to “quickly take notes from the lock screen.”
According to Android Authority, after enabling certain developer settings options in Android 14, Google Keep could be set as the default note-taking app. However, this could not be reproduced with OneNote, suggesting that Microsoft still needs to work on the app. It is uncertain whether Microsoft will be able to roll out support at the same time as Android 15, which is expected later this year.
Regardless of when it comes out, being able to choose between two top note-taking apps that support the lock screen feature will be a huge win for power users, especially since the functionality is expected to extend to tablets as well.
