Google has announced that it is rolling out a new feature called markups in Google Docs. This feature allows you to add “handwritten annotations” to documents with a stylus or your finger when using an Android device.
“We’re excited to announce a new feature, markups in Google Docs, which gives you more flexibility when providing feedback in a document,” the tech giant announced in a Workspace Updated blogpost.
Also read: Google now lets you access Gemini directly within Gmail, Docs & more: Here’s how
Markups can be useful in many scenarios, such as: Colleagues giving each other handwritten feedback on diagrams, charts, reports or proposals. Or, educators giving students feedback on their essays, reports, short stories and more.
Also read: Android users, Google Gemini AI magic will soon be at your fingertips
In order to add annotations, you must use an Android device. From an Android device, you can enter the markups mode and annotate using pen or highlighter tools, hide/show markups, erase markups, and insert suggested markups.
On the other hand, on iOS devices and desktops, you can view a document with markups, delete markups, and hide/show markups.
To turn on markups, open a document > select the markups tool from the contextual toolbar > draw with your finger or stylus.
There is no admin control on this feature, and is available to all Google Workspace customers, Google Workspace Individual subscribers and users with personal Google accounts.
If you haven’t received this feature yet, just wait a little while as it is currently rolling out.
In my opinion, the introduction of markups in Google Docs for Android users offers several benefits. Handwritten annotations provide a more personalised and expressive way of giving feedback compared to typed comments. This can be especially beneficial for providing feedback on visual elements such as diagrams, charts, and sketches.
