The Samsung Galaxy Note debuted with the largest 4G smartphone display, but was also known for its native handwriting recognition technology. By employing the integrated S Pen smart stylus, you can write, doodle, draw and create original artwork right on the handset’s display. The Samsung Galaxy Note II appeared in the United States in late 2012, and returned the popular and versatile S Pen integration, as well as a larger, high-resolution screen, powerful quad core processor and significant hardware and software package.
The Galaxy Note II S Pen sits securely in the built-in cradle when not in use, and when it is removed, a new home screen appears on your display with the most used S Pen applications. And if the smart stylus wonders a bit too far from the handset, an audible and visual alarm and notification is given. While the multitude of capabilities this smart stylus and integrated touchscreen display deliver is virtually limitless, let’s look at a few of the more popular S Pen features.
First off, the handset launches with most of the S Pen applications turned off. This is to improve battery life, and to find all of the smart stylus features, tap on the Menu, then Settings, then S Pen. Popular applications you may want to turn on are Open Popup Note, S Pen keeper, Quick Command and Air View. Open Popup Note opens a miniature window so you can take notes, even if you have another application open. S Pen keeper delivers the alert and notification mentioned above, and Quick Command allows you to launch any application or other feature with simply a gesture.
Air View is an S Pen application which enables your Galaxy Note II to detect the “nub” of the pen before it touches the screen. You can access informative pop-up windows, or open other Windows in your browser, just by hovering the S Pen over the correct area. As mentioned above, native handwriting recognition is capable, but must be enabled. To do so, open any application that traditionally uses a keyboard, and press and hold the Mic button. Under keyboard settings tap to enable S Pen detection, then turn off predictive text.
And when you press and hold down the tiny button on the shaft of the S Pen, and then draw a line from bottom up on your home screen, a new window appears. This window allows you to launch applications by inputting a command and keyword. The abilities of the smart stylus S Pen are truly unlimited, and accentuate the large 5.55 inch high-resolution screen. The Galaxy Note II is currently offered in the United States by multiple wireless providers.
