Mobile Apps
We must always ask ourselves, [build-vs-assemble].
This Roadmap item discusses existing assembled solutions, and some thoughts on future Foam mobile experience.
Existing solutions
Pros
- Open source
- Already a usable solution.
- Provides functionality to edit, create, and browser markdown files.
- Support journal mode, todo lists, and free writing
- Syncs to GitHub repo
Cons
- Doesn’t support [wiki-links] (deal breaker, but support coming soon)
- Doesn’t generate link reference lists (but this is ok, since [workspace-janitor] as a GitHub action can solve this)
- Not as sleek as Apple/Google notes, some keyboard state glitching on Android, etc.
- Lack of control over roadmap. Established product with a paid plan, so may not be open to Foam-supportive changes and additions that don’t benefit most users.
Verdict: Good. By far best effort/outcome ratio would be to help improve GitJournal rather than building a bespoke mobile app.
Bespoke mobile app for Foam
Given we already have a solution, why would we spend time and effort building a bespoke mobile app?
- Taking notes on the go is a key part of a good note taking process, and the process should feel effortless
- Having a custom app could help us support key user workflows in a more Foam-specific manner
If such an app was worth building, it would have to have the following features:
- Instant loading and syncing for quick notes
- Sleek, simple, beautifully designed user experience.
- Ability to search and navigate forward links and back links (onlly in paid GitJournal version)
- Killer feature that makes it the best note taking tool for Foam (?)
Given the effort vs reward ratio, it’s a low priority for core team, but if someone wants to work on this, we can provide support! Talk to us on the #mobile-apps channel on Foam Discord.