A software-based mechanism for taking multimedia notes while using a mobile computing device is provided. The interface is stream-based so as to enable complete control with a text or numeric keypad, a directional pad, and command button. A note document containing textual data and objects representing other data types may be closed and revisited after it has been created. It may be either read or edited in a single session. Changes may be manually or automatically saved to the note document for ease of user experience.