It is no secret that Microsoft is investing heavily to make the inking experience on Windows better by the day. Inking support went mainstream with the Anniversary Update back in 2016 and ever since, the firm has been adding newer features to both the OS and its native apps. OneNote is probably one of the best examples to showcase how apps can be feature-packed with inking capabilities.
One such app that recently received some Ink love was the Mail app. Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring began receiving an update to the Windows 10 Mail app at the end of June that brought with it the ability to draw in the Compose box. The new “Draw” tab in the composer allowed users to draw and write on their email messages with a variety of tools and options that you would expect from Ink enabled apps like OneNote and Photos. First spotted by HTNovo, that update is now available for non-insiders, opening up the functionality to all Windows 10 users.
Version 16005.10325.20091.0 of the Mail and Calendar app that brings with it inking capabilities began rolling out sometime last week. The ‘Draw’ icon with the “Add drawing canvas” text helps users understand that a canvas needs to be added to enable inking in a message. Once added, the composer displays the boundaries of the canvas that can be resized as per need. Additionally, you can also pick out objects once they’ve been drawn or written and place them elsewhere, exactly like you would on OneNote.
The feature is not exclusive to pen or touch-enabled devices. Users can also ink with their mouse on devices that do not support other input methods. Many manufacturers include a pen with their laptops, 2-in-1s and convertibles, and the functionality will indeed be a neat addition for consumers that opt for the pen.
Will you be using this feature in any way? Let us know in the comments.