Quickly Attach Files or Images as Links

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1

I’d like to suggest another feature for “Add Attachment”: attaching files or images as links.

When attaching files from the cloud, I’d like to be able to choose between importing the files and linking to them.

For example, on the iPhone:

  1. Tap the circled plus sign
  2. Then tap the paperclip icon
  3. The file window opens
  4. (new) A pop-up window opens, and I can choose between “Import” and “Insert as Link”
    5a. The attachment is inserted as before
    5b. (new) A link to the attachment is inserted.

I can imagine there are some challenges in keeping the linking stable across all devices and with different sources. Linking files in Finder is already possible, but somewhat limited. Yes, of course there’s also DEVONthink or custom shortcuts, but that’s not an option for me.

At some point, I stopped importing files or images and started linking to them instead. I do this using “Add Link“ (iCloud) or “Share to Agenda“ (OneDrive), but it’s quite cumbersome and interrupts the workflow. I also always have to correct the displayed text of a OneDrive link after sharing it.
Especially on the iPhone, there are too many steps, actions, and window switches.

I have no idea if my suggestion is feasible, but I’d really appreciate a faster way to link attachments without having to leave Agenda!

2

Thanks, that is a clear write up of the flow.

This fits with something we have been circling for a while from the link side. There is a long running request for links to work more like attachments, where you choose the display style at insert time, inline or preview or plain URL. What you are describing is the same idea coming from the other direction: pick import or link when you attach.

The tricky part is the one you already put your finger on. A link to a file in iCloud or OneDrive has to stay valid on every device, and the paths differ per device and per provider, so keeping that stable is where the work is. Worth us looking at what is reliable per source rather than trying to do it for everything at once.

I should point out that you can already link to files on the Mac by dragging them in and holding Control as you drop. That uses a link instead of copying in the file.

We’ll take it along.

Drew

3

To avoid the second tap, I would suggest

  1. Tap = Insert image
  2. Long press = Insert link only (mimic CTRL+drag)