# Squid: Take Notes, Markup PDFs

> Take handwritten notes for class, work, or fun! Easily markup PDFs and share…

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus)

## Overview

- **ID:** `com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus`
- **Platform:** Android
- **Type:** Android app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Steadfast Innovation, LLC
- **Category:** PRODUCTIVITY
- **Downloads:** 12,681,279
- **Rating:** 4.09 / 5 (70,298 ratings)
- **Version:** 4.5.3-GP
- **Last updated:** 2026-08-21
- **First published:** 2012-03-28
- **Publisher country:** US
- **Size:** 32 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-14
- **Store listing:** [Google Play Store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus)
- **Website:** [https://squidnotes.com](https://squidnotes.com/)
- **Privacy policy:** [https://squidnotes.com/eula](https://squidnotes.com/eula)

## Description

**Squid: Take Notes, Markup PDFs** is a versatile note-taking app trusted by over 12 million users for more than 12 years. It allows you to write naturally on Android tablets, phones, and Chromebooks just like on paper. Key features include low latency ink for responsive writing, PDF annotation and form filling, rich tools like highlighters and shape drawing, and seamless organization with folders.

With Squid, your notes stay private on your device without requiring an account, while offering easy backup and export options. The app supports presentations by casting your notes to TVs or projectors and helps you replace paper notebooks to save money and reduce waste. Squid Premium unlocks additional paper backgrounds, PDF markup tools, and bulk export functionalities. Recognized as a top productivity app, Squid seamlessly blends creativity and productivity for personal and educational use.

## Rankings

- #11,428 — Overall
- #180 — Productivity (Gross)
- #30 — note

## Permissions and access

### Permissions

- `android.permission.ACCESS_ADSERVICES_AD_ID`
- `android.permission.ACCESS_ADSERVICES_ATTRIBUTION`
- `android.permission.ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE`
- `android.permission.ACCESS_WIFI_STATE`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE_DATA_SYNC`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE_SPECIAL_USE`
- `android.permission.INTERNET`
- `android.permission.POST_NOTIFICATIONS`
- `android.permission.RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED`
- `android.permission.SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW`
- `android.permission.WAKE_LOCK`
- `com.android.vending.BILLING`
- `com.google.android.finsky.permission.BIND_GET_INSTALL_REFERRER_SERVICE`
- `com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus.DYNAMIC_RECEIVER_NOT_EXPORTED_PERMISSION`

## Review summary

Squid is praised for its simple, distraction-free interface and strong core features for taking notes and sketching, plus useful PDF export and an ad-free experience. Many users also find the free version adequate and enjoy long-term reliability. However, criticism centers on pricing and subscription models, with premium features and PDF editor often deemed expensive or paywalled. Users also complain about limited pen/tools, lack of customization (templates/shapes), and handwriting-to-text issues. Some desire cloud-backup options and UI/theme customization, such as a dark mode. Overall, a solid note-taking app hampered by paid-feature limitations and tool variety.

### Pros

- Easy-to-use, distraction-free interface.
- Strong note-taking and drawing capabilities.
- PDF export support with ad-free experience.
- Long-term reliability and maturity (used for years).
- Free version adequate for many users.

### Cons

- Subscription pricing and paid premium features (perceived overpriced).
- Limited pen options/tools (few brushes; want more).
- Lack of customization (no templates, few shapes).
- Handwriting-to-text conversion not available or unreliable.
- UI customization options such as dark mode are limited.

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.steadfastinnovation.android.projectpapyrus)