Google Keep might become a core Android app in Android 16, making it uninstallable without root access and potentially gaining new features.
Google Keep, the popular note-taking app, might soon join the list of essential system apps on Android devices. It could become an integral part of Android’s operating system, similar to apps like Phone, Messages, and Google Play Store.
The change was noticed in the Android 16 Developer Preview 2, where Google Keep is listed as a system app. If you upgrade to this version of Android, you won’t be able to uninstall Google Keep unless you have root access. This marks a significant shift for the app, which was previously considered optional.
Integration signals a shift in priorities
Earlier this year, Google integrated Keep with its Tasks feature, making it easier to manage notes and reminders in one place. Before this, updates to Keep had been sparse, suggesting it wasn’t a primary focus for Google. However, this latest move hints that Google now considers the app a core part of its ecosystem.
By promoting the Keep to a System app, Google might plan to add more advanced features to the platform. These could include deeper integration with Android’s operating system, making it work seamlessly with other core features and apps.
What this means for users
For everyday users, this change could bring more functionality to Google Keep. It might mean faster updates, improved performance, or new features that enhance its usability. However, it also means you won’t have the option to remove the app if it’s not something you use unless you’re comfortable rooting your device.
Google hasn’t officially explained why it’s making this change. However, the move aligns with its efforts to create a more unified and powerful ecosystem across its apps and services.
This shift highlights the importance of note-taking and productivity tools in the digital world. With Keep becoming a must-have app for Android users, it will be interesting to see how Google develops it in the coming months.