Apple adds new Freeform app on iPhones, iPads and Macs: What is it, how it works

By Abhik Sengupta: Apple recently released the iOS 16.2 update for iPhones, which includes a new Freeform app. The Freeform app is also available on Macs and iPads with the latest iPadOS and macOS updates. According to Apple, the app will help users organize and lay out content on a flexible canvas. The “Freeform board” is stored in iCloud, so users can access it on different devices such as iPhones, iPads and Macs with the same Apple account. Additionally, users have the option to invite others to collaborate and edit the board.

How does the Freeform app work?

At first glance, the new Freeform app looks like a combination of Google Docs, Sheet and Slide. It appears to be Apple’s response to Google’s collaborative work apps, designed specifically for its internal devices – similar to Apple Notes.

When you open the app, users will be presented with a large whiteboard to jot down ideas all in one place. Users can move around the board effortlessly with built-in gesture support.

Interestingly, the app supports touch controls, which means that even iPhone users without stylus support can draw and doodle. Of course, this will work more efficiently on iPads with an Apple Pencil. Users can also add a wide range of files, including photos, video, audio, documents, PDFs, links to websites and map location links, sticky notes, shapes, diagrams and more, using tools available at the bottom.

By default, the large canvas includes grids. If you want to remove the grid, click on three vertical dots at the bottom right > show/hide grid. Here, users can also find options to rename the Freeform board, mark it as a favorite, export it as a PDF and print it.

How to share Freeform board?

As mentioned, the app allows users to jot down notes for work, and users can invite others to collaborate. To share the file, click on the share option at the top right. Here, users can choose whether they want others to view or edit the Freeform board.

The Freeform board is also shareable on WhatsApp. Otherwise, users can share it with others during a Facetime group call.

Apple says the Freeform app supports up to 100 collaborators on the same board. The app comes free on every iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and supports iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, or macOS Ventura 13.1, respectively.

Most importantly, Apple also gives users the option to delete the app if they don’t find it important and want to save space on their device. While Android phones don’t have the option to remove Google’s internal apps like Drive, YouTube and more.