Notesnook v1.6.0: Encrypted File Attachments, Notification Notes, Compact Mode & Widgets!

React is built around reactivity. You make a change or update a value, and the UI updates instantly. Almost every functional component in React has some state. Today we will discuss how we can use the React useRef hook correctly and explore different use cases for useRef.

React Native JSI seems daunting but JSI is, by far, the best way to deliver native performance. And the best part? No unnecessary Promise based APIs. No unnecessary conversion of parameters. No overhead. Everything happens on a single layer giving the best possible performance (and the best interopability).

In early January of 2021, Whatsapp gave an ultimatum to its 2 billion-plus userbase: accept our updated privacy policy or leave. Privacy on Whatsapp was already a controversial topic but this public ultimatum tipped the bucket.

But a lot of people already knew that privacy on Whatsapp is a joke. Whatsapp had made similar privacy policy updates before. And it had never received such a riotous response from its users. What had changed?

This release packs so much that it feels more like v1.5 than v1.4.1 but eh, what can I say, it is what it is! Now with a more native desktop experience, faster sync, better security, and improved UX, Notesnook is not far from becoming the best note-taking app ever. ;)

React Native JSI (Javascript Interface) is the new layer that helps in communication between Javascript and Native Platforms easier and faster. It is the core element in re-architecture of React Native with Fabric UI Layer and Turbo Modules.

After months of bug fixes and minor improvements, we are finally adding new stuff. This release took weeks to finalize but it was worth it bringing note publishing via Monographs, many UI improvements, bug fixes, and a new yearly plan. Exciting stuff!

Back in November of 2019 when Notesnook was still a dream, we asked this very question. Why do we have to sacrifice convenience, ease of use, features, and our time to achieve privacy (which is supposed to be our basic human right)? And so Notesnook was born.