This app has a fundamental gap. It assumes that users will continue saving their snippets outside their note-taking system. This creates significant friction and adds an unnecessary layer, rather than complementing the user's workflow.
The development team is weak and has not introduced any new features over the past three years. They have merely transitioned from a desktop beta to a mobile beta. Additionally, the app fails to consider recent advancements in artificial intelligence, resulting in a dated feature set as we move into 2024.
Worst of all, the developers seem blind to these fundamental flaws. Any money spent on this app is a waste, and I strongly advise staying away from it.
Developer Response
The web app is an early prototype, which is still loved by many and live without any downtime for around three years. See bottom section of https://napkin.one
Over the years we talked to thousands of beta users of the web app and it became clear that a lightweight mobile app would fit the needs of most of them much better. That's why we shifted our energy to building the mobile app. Again, we tested this with thousands of beta users before bringing it to the App Store.
Of course, there will further improvements on the app, but the overall concept is proven already and won't change.I’ve been using Napkin for a while now, and it has become an indispensable tool for reflecting on my thoughts, ideas, and knowledge. The app’s intuitive design and user-friendly interface make it easy to capture, organize, and review information seamlessly.
What sets Napkin apart is its unique approach to connecting ideas. The ability to link notes and visualize connections between different pieces of information has enhanced my recall, productivity and creativity. Whether I’m brainstorming for work projects, jotting down personal insights, or organizing research, Napkin covers it.
The app’s flexibility is another highlight. It allows for both structured and free-form note-taking, accommodating various styles and preferences. The integration with Readwise is smooth, making it easy to incorporate into my existing workflow.
Overall, Napkin is a great app for anyone serious about note-taking and knowledge management. I could see it as a must-have app for professionals, students, and anyone who values their ideas. Highly recommended.
For awhile now I've endeavored to fill my iphone with apps that pour into me, rather than drain my life, attention, wallet, etc. I've endeavored to use my phone to create, to consume quality over quantity, read books rather than social media, etc.
Napkin is an important app in my toolkit for those purposes. Resurfacing my own thoughts, and those ideas that I've collected from others, rather than shattering my attention and peace with everything under the sun screaming for my attention.
I hope to see stacks be added to this app, as that's an important part of how I use napkin, but what's here currently is elegant, useful, and beautiful.
I was happy to be one of the beta testers after waiting in line to be one for many weeks (they were very strategic in that process). I enjoyed using the app for a few months in beta mode but felt the price point was a bit steep for my limited use. After letting it go I tried to find other quote reminder type apps and though they exist they just aren’t the same and end up ‘sitting on the shelf’ rather than being used. The peaceful design and experience of this app along with the linking of ideas made it a step above. I’ve missed it.
Glad to see it’s available to everyone now and wish the developers the best of success. They always responded within a day or two to any feedback provided during the beta period and they always seemed nice to work with. Happy to see the price point is a bit lower and I’m back now!
I don’t think an app should ask for a subscription before it even opens for the first time.
An app that isn’t trying to take away my time but instead give it back. I come to Napkin and walk away with a fresh perspective every single time.
Napkin solves a long standing challenge we all have with the collection of digital information. Our obstacle to resurface what we kept so we there was a purpose to save the information in the first place.
I have a morning routine and one of the most important tasks on that list is choosing a daily quote that resonates for me. Instead of social media-ing, in seconds with Napkin, I can find a quote or idea I've saved over the years that starts my day off with a perspective that's meaningful to me.
Thank you David and Fabian for creating a beautiful and ever so useful product.
I regret purchasing a lifetime subscription to Napkin several years ago, as the developers appear to have abandoned the web app. Despite a long-long-delated iOS release, the new promises feel hollow. I cannot recommend this app; with AI advancements, Napkin feels severely limited. The developers have been missing in action for almost two years, and I no longer trust them. They have also reduced the subscription price to half. There is high probability that this app may not stand the test of time like what happened to their web app. Caution is must !!
Developer Response
The web app is an early prototype, which is still loved by many and live without any downtime for around three years. See bottom section of https://napkin.one
Over the years we talked to thousands of beta users of the web app and it became clear that a lightweight mobile app would fit the needs of most of them much better. That's why we shifted our energy to building the mobile app. Again, we tested this with thousands of beta users before bringing it to the App Store.
Of course, there will further improvements on the app, but the overall concept is proven already and won't change.
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