Keep is Google’s in-house note taking app, and it just got a big update that adds some much needed functionality. The update to version 2.0.35 will be rolling out to devices over the next day or two, bringing with it a bevvy of reminder-focused features.
The Keep interface looks the same at first glance, but there are a few new things. It still has the card UI and floating action bar—it’s really a great example of Android design, an always has been. It now includes the slide out “hamburger” navigation panel on the left. This is more consistent with the direction of Google’s apps, and it makes it easier to get around in Keep. The navigation drawer also includes a drop down to switch between accounts.
When you are creating a new note, there will be an option to add a reminder to it. Keep supports both time and location reminders. So if you’re making a shopping list, for example, you could set Keep to push a reminder notification for the shopping list when you get near the grocery store. You can just start typing the name of a place, and Keep uses Google’s location database to figure out what you mean. Alternatively, tell it to make sure you finish up that project by a certain time. The Keep reminder notifications will also give you the option to snooze or adjust the reminder without opening the app, which is great.
Another change in Keep is surprisingly basic. When adding a photo to a note, you can now attach one from the gallery. The app previously only allowed you to take one with the camera on the spot.
Keep has robust integration with Google Now voice search. You can ask Google Now to “take a note” and the default app for that is Keep. It has native support for lists, photo notes, voice recordings, and color coding. Google Keep is also a completely free app and an Android exclusive.