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Apple released the Freeform app with updates to macOS Ventura 13.1, iOS 16.2, and iPad 16.2. Create boards and fill them with sticky notes, doodles and media without worrying about document size or layout. It also features an infinite canvas, so you’ll never run out of space.
However, when I tested it, I ran into a few issues, including sync issues and a lack of folders and pages to organize my boards. , here are some of the biggest drawbacks.
1. Freeform only works on Apple devices
Like most Apple software, Freeform is only available for Apple devices such as Macs, iPads and iPhones. Other than the fact that Freeform is designed for collaboration, it makes sense.
One of its most notable features is the ability to invite up to 99 users to work on your board at the same time while watching new content appear in real time. You can also use FaceTime to call collaborators from the app and discuss your project while you work.
Freeform adds to the list of creative ways Freeform can be used and can be a great educational resource. However, it only works on Apple devices, so it’s not for everyone.
2. Cannot draw on macOS version
One of the highlights of the Freeform app is the ability to scribble, draw and write by hand using your finger or Apple Pencil. However, this fun feature is only available on iPadOS and iOS. So if you plan to use Freeform on Mac, you’ll miss it.
While this decision may be intended to encourage more people to buy an iPad, a future update could bring this feature to Mac computers. Either way, don’t expect to sketch using the macOS version of his Freeform.
3. Requires an iPad and Apple Pencil for the best experience
The iPad is the best device to get the most out of the Freeform app, as the macOS version doesn’t let you draw and the iPhone screen is a bit too narrow.
If you don’t already have an Apple Pencil, it’s an expensive accessory to buy just for use with Freeform. As a result, you might settle for using your finger to scribble on the page. For someone who doesn’t own an iPad, he’s not worth buying an iPad just to use Freeform.
So while Freeform is an app that works on multiple Apple devices, it seems that only users with both an iPad and an Apple Pencil can enjoy all the features for an ideal experience.
4. Synchronization issues
Since the release, we’ve been experiencing some sync issues. This is partly because iCloud sync isn’t turned on by default. Without this, the board cannot be shared or accessed from other Apple devices.
To fix this, on your device System setting (Configuration iOS/iPadOS), click your Apple ID profile, then iCloudThen find the Freeform app in the list and move the slider to upon.
This should fix the problem, but for some people, iCloud sync doesn’t work properly because when they try to share the board, they get an error message that the board hasn’t synced yet.
Being able to share and collaborate on a board is a key design feature of the Freeform app, so you should expect it to work from the get-go without much fuss.
5. Oversimplified design
Freeform, like most other Apple apps, has a minimalist design, hiding menus and leaving only the most important tools on the main screen.
For example, to move a sticky note back, first tap the object, then click the additional menu button (three dots in a circle). return When front A button at the top of the list.
Similarly, to change brush settings, polish Tap the tool first, then tap it again to reveal thickness and opacity. Finding this would be difficult without a tutorial, help her message, or a template to get you started.
It seems obvious when you realize that each feature hides an additional setting, but after a few days of testing the app, learning how to use Freeform properly took longer than expected. I know it will take.
6. No folder support
Oddly enough, Freeform doesn’t let you create folders to organize your boards. Whether you’re working, studying, or planning to use Freeform for note-taking, brainstorming, or planning, it can be a little tricky to keep all your ideas neatly organized.
Most of what you can do is sort your boards by recent, shared, or favorites. Otherwise, all boards are listed in her one place. Without a file system, it would be cumbersome and not suitable for people who want to use Freeform as part of their workflow.
7. Overlapping Features with Other Apple Apps
Given that this is the first Apple app in a long time, Freeform’s functionality isn’t markedly different from what other Apple apps such as Notes and Pages can do.
For example, the Notes app comes pre-installed on Macs and, like Freeform, lets you add media, share notes with others, and add sketches using your iPad. It has steadily improved over time, making it one of the best note-taking apps available for the iPad.
On the other hand, if you’re familiar with Pages, you’ll notice that Freeform uses the same shape library. In addition, you can add drawings as images to your pages and convert handwritten notes to text.
Both of these apps have been around for a long time, so they have some additional features that are better suited for their purpose when it comes to taking notes, planning, and jotting down ideas. Freeform is a niche option for those who enjoy what they do above all else.
8. There are better alternatives
Freeform can be a useful tool, but it seems incomplete at the time of release. That may change in future updates, but for now it’s worth considering alternatives.
If you really enjoy Freeform’s drawing capabilities, there are plenty of great drawing and painting apps for iPad. You get more brush options than what Freeform offers, plus the ability to organize your sketches into folders.
As I mentioned earlier, if you’re looking for a dedicated note-taking app, Notes and Pages has the ability to add sketches, convert handwritten notes to text, add media, shapes, and headlines.
Apple’s Freeform app needs improvement
On the surface, Freeform is a fun and creative app that you can use to visually draw, plan, or brainstorm. However, it’s still not robust enough for work and study due to sync issues and the lack of a file system to organize your boards.
It’s also great for users who already own an iPad and Apple Pencil. Also, remember that collaboration tools only work with his other Apple users. Apple may roll out some updates over time to improve the Freeform app, but in the meantime, better alternatives are worth considering.
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