Microsoft details Windows Ink Workspace in new Windows 10 Insider build

With today’s new Insider build, Microsoft has detailed the new Windows Ink Workspace, originally announced at BUILD back in March, that enhances Pen functionality for devices that support it by introducing new virtual tools such as a Ruler and sticky notes, as well as new areas to work with the Pen such as in a sketchbook or directly on top of apps.

Windows Ink Workspace

Microsoft says that the biggest feature available in build 14328 is the new Ink Workspace, accessible via the taskbar for devices with Pen support. The workspace looks similar to the Action Center, and houses all the Pen tools you need to be productive and creative, with quick access to your most recently used apps with Pen support and more. You can take a closer look at the whole inking experience in this video:

Furthermore, you can access the Ink Workspace directly above the lock screen too, so you can get down to working with your Pen super quickly and easily without having to login first. Lots of exciting stuff arriving with the Ink Workspace, but it doesn’t stop there.

Sketchpad

The new Sketchpad is basically a clean canvas for doodlers, note-takers and more. Sketchpad is accessible directly from the Ink Workspace, and allows you to write/draw pretty much whatever you like, with support for new Pen tools such as the virtual Ruler, something we know many Pen users are going to love to use.

Screen sketch

In addition to Sketchpad, there is also a new Screen sketch feature which in short allows you to draw directly on top of the system with your pen, allowing you to take notes with ease. Lots of first-party apps are intelligent enough to understand that you’re drawing on top of them, and in some way will communicate with the ink.

For example, drawing onto a photo in the Photos app will actually have the Photos app understand you’re drawing on top of it, and even allow you to save the photo with whatever additions you have added with your pen. Super awesome stuff!

Custom pen experiences

With the new Windows Ink Workspace, Microsoft has added a load of new options in the Settings app for pen users to take advantage of. You can customize what Pen buttons open what, whether the Ink workspace can be accessed via the lock screen, and a whole lot more.

All of these new features are available in todays Windows 10 Insider release build 14238, which is currently being flighted to Windows Insiders. If you want to try the new Ink changes out, make sure you get downloading that new build!