Apple announced several new features, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the launch of a new iPadOS 18 app during the keynote session of its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024. More than 14 years after the launch of the first iPad, the Cupertino-based tech giant is finally launching a built-in Calculator app with Math Notes feature powered by artificial intelligence. The operating system will also get Siri powered by ChatGPT, Apple Intelligence features and customization of the home screen and app icons. The company has made available the beta version of iPadOS 18 for developers.
iPadOS 18 gets a Calculator app
The iPad will finally get a built-in Calculator app with iPadOS 18. The app shares the same design elements as its iOS counterpart and can similarly be used as a basic and scientific calculator and for unit conversion. A larger screen on the device will allow more buttons and functions to be displayed at the same time. There is a History option that also allows users to check previous calculations.
iPadOS 18 Calculator application
Photo credit: Apple
But that’s not the main highlight of the app. A new Math Notes calculator has also been added to the Notes app, allowing users to type or print math expressions. Once the user places an equals sign next to the expression, it will be solved using the user’s handwriting in real time. Math Notes can also solve questions based on variables and display graphs for the results. Multiple equations can be added to the same graph to see how they relate to each other.
iPadOS 18 brings new features to the Notes app
The Notes app has also received some upgrades. Content can now be organized by collapsing sections under headings and subheadings. Five new text highlighting colors have also been added.
Features of the iPadOS 18 Notes app
Photo credit: Apple
Apple has added a new feature powered by the Apple Pencil called Smart Script that will help users who write handwritten notes. The feature uses intelligence to improve the readability of written text without disrupting the look and feel of the user’s handwriting. It also allows users to edit handwritten text similar to typed text. Meanwhile, typed text can also be pasted in the same handwriting style.
Customization features for iPadOS 18
Just like iOS 18, iPad users will also be able to customize their home screen and app icons with the upcoming software update. App icons and widgets can now be placed in any position, as Apple ditches its grid format. App icons can also be customized to be dark, light or tinted. Furthermore, the size of the icons can be increased and users can also remove the names for aesthetic appearance.
iPadOS 18 home screen customization
Photo credit: Apple
The control center also gets a redesign. Now users will find different stacks of settings tools in the Control Center. Users will find a set of controls for media playback, home controls and connectivity. You can switch between these controls to get to the desired area. Apple is also asking developers of the new Controls API to create more such controls for users.
Other features of iPadOS 18
- Added a new redesigned tab to display favorite tabs. It turns into a sidebar to help users get a fluid view. Users can reorder or add tabs from the sidebar.
- The Photos app will now automatically organize libraries. The new carousel will show users highlights in different libraries.
- New text formatting tools are coming to the Messages app, including animated texts. Users will also be able to schedule messages.
- The Safari browser is getting a Reader view that will allow users to get to the heart of information immediately.
- iPad users will also be able to lock and hide apps.
- Apple Intelligence features such as system-wide Writing Tools, image capabilities, AI-integrated Siri, and ChatGPT integration will also be available with iPadOS 18.
- A Passwords app will be added to store and track login credentials.
- SharePlay will offer remote access and the ability to draw on the screen.
- The Calendar app will also display events and tasks from Reminders.
iPadOS 18 availability and device compatibility
The iPadOS 18 developer beta is currently available through Apple’s developer program. The global stable version of iPadOS 18 is expected in September or October this year. The following iPad models have been confirmed to receive the iPadOS 18 update:
- iPad Pro (M4)
- iPad Pro 12.9 inches (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11 inch (1st generation and later)
- iPad Air (M2) iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- iPad (7th generation and later)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Apple Intelligence features will only be available on iPad with M1 and later with Siri and the device language set to US English.
