braiNOTES
Browser handwritten notes and whiteboard for students
WritingOpen sourceOpen source · verified#handwriting#note-taking#open-source
Listed by the ProductPerch team from Hacker News · not launched here yet
What is braiNOTES?
braiNOTES is an open source web app for taking handwritten notes and using a digital whiteboard directly in the browser. It requires no account and stores all data locally, so nothing leaves your device. The interface supports multiple pen types including ballpoint, fountain pen, marker, pencil, and highlighter, with pressure sensitivity. Users can choose notebook styles like blank, lined, grid, dotted, or edgeless whiteboards.
The tool is designed for lecture use. A PDF document can be placed beside the notes or used as the background pages. Users can write directly on the PDF, view it side by side, or cut sections of slides into their notes. Pages can be exported as PDFs with vector ink, saved as PNG images, or backed up as .brainotes files. The app saves automatically and functions offline after the initial load.
A Bridge feature allows connection to a local server on the user's computer, enabling external tools to read, edit, or convert pages to LaTeX. The application is built with SvelteKit and TypeScript and can be run locally for development.
braiNOTES features
- Handwritten notes and whiteboard in the browser
- Multiple pen types with pressure sensitivity
- Side-by-side PDF viewing and slide annotation
- Automatic saving and full offline support
- Export to PDF, PNG, or proprietary backup files
- Local Bridge connection for external tool integration
- Customizable notebook backgrounds and grid layouts
Who uses braiNOTES and for what
- Taking handwritten notes during university lectures while viewing slides
- Annotating PDF documents directly in the browser without installing software
- Creating digital whiteboard sketches for remote meetings or study sessions
- Backing up personal notes locally without creating an online account
- Connecting note-taking workflows to local LaTeX or coding automation tools
braiNOTES FAQ
Is braiNOTES free?
Yes, braiNOTES is released under the MIT license and is available at no cost. The website does not mention premium tiers or paid plans.
Does braiNOTES require an account?
No account is required. All data stays in the browser, and the app works offline once it has been opened initially.
What is braiNOTES used for?
It is used for taking handwritten notes, annotating PDFs, and using a digital whiteboard, primarily for lectures and studying. The website does not say if it supports team collaboration.
Does braiNOTES work on Mac?
braiNOTES runs in any modern web browser, so it works on Mac, Windows, Linux, and mobile devices. The website does not specify native desktop applications.
Is braiNOTES open source?
Yes, the source code is publicly available on GitHub under the MIT license. Developers can clone the repository and run it locally.
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