Goodnotes is a digital note-taking workspace combining handwriting, typed documents, PDFs and visual collaboration. It is useful for study notes, meeting records, document markup and developing ideas without being restricted to a paper notebook.
What it does Write with a stylus, search handwritten notes, annotate PDFs and organize material into a digital library. Whiteboards and text documents extend the canvas; audio transcription and AI tools help summarize, ask questions or work through material. Features vary by platform and plan. It supports Apple devices, Android, Windows and web, with Pro offering Goodnotes Cloud library sync across Apple and non-Apple devices. AI output should be checked against the original notes.
Pricing — checked 21 October 2026 (USD) Free has limited files, three notebooks, 100 MB storage and watermarked exports. Essential is $11.99/year; Pro is $35.99/year with advanced AI and collaboration features, both with seven-day trials. The US Apple store lists Special Edition at $35.99 once: Apple-only, without Goodnotes Cloud. AI Pass adds $9.99/month and 6,300 monthly AI credits; it is optional, not unlimited AI. Teams is $120/seat/year and Enterprise is quoted. Marketplace content may cost extra; regional prices and purchase options vary.
Their story Steven Chan started developing Goodnotes after struggling with handwritten mathematics notes as a student in Australia. Launched in 2011, it began as a bootstrapped personal project before growing into a broader note-taking business. Its current direction combines that handwriting foundation with typed work, collaboration and AI-assisted productivity.
Sources: Plans · Plan details · Origins