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Fix OneNote Scratch-to-Erase and Shape Recognition Missing on Android

WPS Content Manager Sep 30, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users want to utilize Windows-style OneNote drawing gestures, such as scratch-to-erase and automatic shape recognition, on their Android tablets.

Fix OneNote Scratch-to-Erase and Shape Recognition Missing on Android

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: Android
Scenario: Taking handwritten digital notes and drawing geometric shapes using a stylus on a Samsung Android tablet.
Observed behavior: The scratch-to-erase gesture and automatic ink-to-shape recognition features do not work in the Android version of the app, unlike the Windows version.

Before you start

Make sure your OneNote app is updated to the latest version via the Google Play Store, as Microsoft occasionally rolls out new drawing tools and capabilities to mobile users.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Manual Eraser and Built-in Shape Tools on Android

Since custom Windows ink gestures are not supported on Android, you must rely on the manual toolbar options to erase strokes and insert shapes.

The Android version of OneNote currently lacks the advanced ink-to-shape and scratch-to-erase features found on Windows. To achieve the same results on an Android tablet, you will need to manually select the eraser or insert predefined shapes from the menu.

Access the Draw tab

Open your notebook in the OneNote Android app and tap on the 'Draw' tab at the top of the screen to reveal the stylus and pen tools.

Manually select the Eraser

Instead of scratching out text, tap the 'Eraser' icon in the toolbar. If you are using a Samsung S Pen, you can typically press and hold the side button on the pen to temporarily activate the eraser while drawing.

Insert predefined shapes

Since automatic shape recognition is absent, navigate to the 'Insert' tab (or the shapes icon in the Draw tab, depending on your version) and select the geometric shape you want to add to your notes.

Use Manual Eraser and Built-in Shape Tools on Android

S Pen Integration: While the scratch-to-erase gesture doesn't work, utilizing the hardware button on your Samsung S Pen is the fastest alternative to switching tools manually.

Solution 2

Sync with OneNote for Windows for Advanced Recognition

Use the Windows desktop version of OneNote to apply shape recognition to notes synced from your Android tablet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are scratch-to-erase and shape recognition missing on OneNote for Android?

Microsoft maintains different feature sets for its Windows, iOS, and Android versions of OneNote. Currently, advanced ink gestures like scratch-to-erase and automatic ink-to-shape are exclusive to the Windows ecosystem and have not been ported to Android.

Can I use third-party apps to add shape recognition to OneNote Android?

No, OneNote for Android does not support third-party gesture or drawing plugins. You must rely on the built-in tools provided in the app or sync your notes to a Windows device to access those specific features.

Does the Samsung S Pen button work as an eraser in OneNote Android?

Yes, while the on-screen scratch-to-erase gesture is not supported, OneNote for Android generally recognizes the hardware button on the Samsung S Pen. Pressing and holding the side button will temporarily switch your pen to the eraser tool.

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