14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has released an update for the Windows 10 Mail app that brings support for inking, technically allowing users to draw and take notes in a new message.
In a support document released today, Microsoft details how this feature works on Windows 10, explaining that it can be used for adding sketches to messages, take notes on images, and highlight content right within the New Mail UI.
The update is currently rolling out to users across the world, after previously being available for insiders for a few weeks.
Increasing focus on pen capabilities
Microsoft becoming increasingly focused on pen capabilities isn’t necessarily a surprise, though by updating the Mail app with such features the company could make a major step towards the introduction of one eagerly-anticipated product.
Surface Andromeda, Microsoft’s hero device that was allegedly pushed back to a 2019 release, is expected to be built around pen features, and preparing all apps for its debut is a must.
Andromeda was originally due to launch this year, but according to people familiar with Microsoft’s plans, the current state of the app ecosystem compatible with such a device forced the software giant to delay the release for at least half a year.
Updates like the one targeting the Mail app could pave the road for Andromeda, though it goes without saying that Microsoft still has a lot of work to do in this regard.
If it indeed gets the green light, Andromeda may launch in the spring of 2019 when Microsoft finalizes the next Windows 10 update or later the same year in the fall when another OS feature release is ready.
For the time being, the drawing capabilities in the Mail app are pretty useful on devices with touchscreens as well, and you can give them a try by updating to the most recent version on the Microsoft Store.