Chrome enhances pen input on Windows for seamless writing
Top 3 Key Points:
- Chrome to support direct pen input in text fields on Windows devices.
- Eliminates the need for separate handwriting recognition software.
- Works with any Windows 10 or 11 device with pen support.
Google is making Chrome more pen-friendly for users who prefer writing with a stylus. Soon, surfing the web and filling out forms on Chrome will be much easier for people using devices with pen support.
Traditionally, while you could navigate Chrome with a stylus, writing directly into text fields required additional handwriting recognition software. Google is changing this by enhancing Chrome’s native support for handwritten input on Windows devices.
This upgrade is powered by Windows’ Text Services Framework (TSF) Shell Handwriting API, which recognizes your handwriting and converts it directly into text. This means you can now write directly into input fields without needing to switch to a keyboard. Whether you’re filling out a form or jotting down notes in a web app, Chrome will detect your pen’s placement and automatically convert your handwriting into machine-readable text.
This feature will be particularly beneficial for users of devices like Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Yoga, or HP Spectre x360. However, any device running Windows 10 or 11 that supports pen input will be able to take advantage of this new functionality.
Although Google hasn’t announced an official release date for this feature, it’s actively being developed. With Google’s track record of frequent updates, users can expect to see this feature in a stable Chrome release soon.