Why it took 14 years for the Apple iPad to get a Calculator app

It’s been over a decade since the first iPad was made available to the public, but fans as well as aficionados couldn’t help but wonder – why isn’t there a dedicated calculator app for the iPad? Over the years, despite the curious omission, Apple users found a workaround with Spotlight search or third-party apps that more or less did the job.

However, at WWDC 2024, Apple (finally) announced a Calculator app and gave anticipating users something to cheer about. And, of course, to make up for the wait, the app now comes with features like Math Notes, which makes solving mathematical expressions easier.

But if that didn’t set you back from wondering why it took so long, here’s everything you need to know about the Calculator app and iPad:

Why did the iPad not have a Calculator app?

Apple devices, including the iPhone, Apple Watch and the Mac, have always had their own Calculator apps. If that’s not all, even the discontinued Apple iPod had its version of it. Which is why, it didn’t quite add up (no pun intended) that device most suited for a Calculator app didn’t have one.  

But among several theories, a prominent one dates back to the iPad’s original release. Scott Forstall, who was then leading software development for the tablet, was summoned by Steve Jobs, a week before the launch.

During the interaction, Jobs questioned Forstall about the Calculator app design for the iPad, leading to Forstall mentioning how there wasn’t one in place. Since a lot of the iPad’s UI was to stay the same as the iPhone, the Calculator app was originally proposed to stay the same for the former.  

ALSO READ: Top iOS 18 features we can’t wait to use

However, Jobs was reportedly not convinced with this solution and asked for either a new design for the iPad-specific app or to do away with it altogether. With the deadline cutting too close to the release, Forstall ended up putting the Calculator app at the bottom of the pile, and the rest, as they say, is history.

While there’s no saying if this story holds true, especially since multiple versions of the tablet were released in the following years, several believe that Apple then waited to have a Calculator app that could rightfully reflect the brand’s philosophy with its design.

Calculator app for iPad: What's new?

Fast forward to today and Apple is finally bringing the app with the iPadOS 18 update, and with it, significant upgrades. For one, the Calculator on iPad will be able to do conversions apart from calculations.

It comes with a new feature known as Math Notes, which will allow users to write their math problems using the Apple Pencil. The app will then recognise these problems and solve them automatically.

In fact, iPadOS 18 will also incorporate Smart Script for it to understand your handwriting better. Apart from this, users will be able to use the scientific calculator as well to solve problems such as logarithmic equations.

While the inclusion of the Calculator app for iPad isn’t a total surprise, owing to the rumours, the event introduced several other features for the tablet. From Apple Intelligence to a more customisable home screen, there’s a lot in store with the new update for iPad users. However, until the stable version rolls out, don’t forget to stay tuned for other developments from Apple on Unboxed by Croma.