Apple's iPad May Finally Receive an Official Calculator App
For over a decade, the absence of a native calculator app on Apple's iPad has puzzled many users and sparked a mix of speculation and rumors among Apple enthusiasts.
While iPhone and Mac devices have long included this utility, the iPad has been left out. However, speculation suggests this could soon change.
Rumors indicate that Apple is preparing to launch a built-in calculator app for the iPad with the upcoming release of iPadOS 18. This announcement is expected to occur at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) scheduled for June 10, where the company will unveil new updates across its software platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS. This inclusion of the native calculator app is part of a broader effort to enhance the iPad user experience, coinciding with the release of new iPad models in May.
Why Was the App Originally Excluded?
Apple's approach to iPadOS, which shares its foundation with iOS, initially involved adapting iPhone apps to work on the iPad's larger screen. This method worked smoothly for most apps, but what about the calculator application?
The long-term omission of the calculator app from the iPad has been a controversial topic. In a 2020 YouTube interview with Marques Brownlee, Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, shared that "There are some things we have not done because to do them, we would want to do something really great and frankly, we haven’t done that. Maybe that day will come."
Incorporating the calculator app in iPadOS 18 represents more than just a minor update; it signifies a major shift in addressing user feedback and improving iPad functionalities. As tablets increasingly serve as both personal and professional devices, having access to fundamental tools like a calculator app becomes crucial.
This update is likely to be well-received, enhancing the iPad's utility for a wide range of uses, from academic settings to workplace environments. Experts believe this reflects Apple's commitment to improving its products in response to user needs while maintaining high standards in design, functionality, and attention to detail, illustrating the company's strategic approach to software development.