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The new Calculator app in iPadOS 18 looks very simple. When opened, it shows the same calculator as on the iPhone but just bigger.
It doesn’t seem like something that took 14 years to make.But the Calculator app is not very important. What is very cool in iPadOS 18 is that a calculator is now inside the system.
Typing an equation in a text box, like “225/4=”, will give the answer right there. This works in many Apple apps and will likely come to other apps soon.Math Notes is the standout feature.
Users can do math by writing it out. Opening Notes app and writing “56 + 48 + 35 * 4 / 6 =” will show the answer (127.33) after a moment. Adding many numbers in a list and drawing a line will sum them up. Changing any number updates the total.
Math Notes can solve equations and make graphs. It works with variables too. Changing a variable changes the answers and graphs in real time. This feature is fun but may have mistakes sometimes.
Math Notes need neat handwriting. If the iPad doesn’t recognize a number or letter, it shows a red border around it and asks to try again. Red borders also appear if the equation is wrong or missing something.
There are still many problems in the beta version. Sometimes answers appear over the equation or off the screen. Writing “food” or “beer” next to numbers confuses it.
Also, answers from Math Notes can’t be used in other equations easily.
Using Quick Notes, Math Notes becomes a handy tool for quick calculations. Swiping from the bottom left with the Pencil opens a small note.
Writing out math there shows answers right away. It’s great for figuring out costs or splitting bills.