Julia Jackson in Hardware On 06/11/2024

Apple unveils iPadOS 18 with long-awaited calculator and customizable home screen

Apple Introduces iPadOS 18 at WWDC 2024 Developer Conference: Featuring New Calculator, ChatGPT Siri Integration, and Enhanced Customization

Apple has announced the release of its latest operating system, iPadOS 18, for tablet devices at the WWDC 2024 conference. Key upgrades include the much-anticipated calculator function, integrated ChatGPT for Siri assistant, and extended user customization of the home screen.

Calculator at Last for iPadOS

After years of anticipation, Apple has finally incorporated a calculator into iPadOS. No longer do users need to download third-party apps brimming with ads for simple mathematical calculations. This new calculator is fully compatible with large iPad screens and supports input via Apple Pencil.

ChatGPT Integration with Siri

Another significant upgrade will be the integration of ChatGPT into Siri. Users can now directly ask artificial intelligence queries through the voice assistant, bypassing the need for creating a separate OpenAI account. Moreover, Siri is now capable of a broader task range, from spelling checks to the creation of resumes based on user-input text.

iPad Home Screen Personalization

iPadOS 18 will also offer customization of the iPad’s home screen. Application icons can now have a darkened mode, third-party applications can be integrated into the “Control Center”, and a new “floating” tab will enable rapid task-switching. A screen sharing function with SharePlay, for remote control of another user’s tablet, will also be introduced.

Additional Benefits

Alongside these, the OS update will bring handy features such as scheduled iMessage sending, application hiding for data privacy, redesigned “Photos” and “Settings” apps, and eye-only device control for those with limited physical capabilities, among others.

Availability

iPadOS 18 will be available for download in the Fall of 2024. In the meantime, Apple has already released a beta version for developers and plans to release a public beta version for all users within a month. The new OS will be compatible with iPads running on the Apple M2 and M4 processors, announced earlier this year, as well as support older models.

This post was last modified on 06/11/2024

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Julia Jackson: Hey there! I'm Julia Jackson, your friendly neighborhood tech geek, always navigating the exciting realms of technology with unbridled enthusiasm. Born and raised in the digital age, I've been on a relentless quest to understand and unravel the intricacies of the ever-evolving tech landscape. Hailing from a generation that witnessed the meteoric rise of the internet, I've been a digital native since the dial-up days. From the nostalgic hum of connecting to the World Wide Web to the lightning-fast speeds of today's fiber optics, I've witnessed and adapted to the digital evolution with a keen eye and a passion for all things tech. My love affair with technology goes beyond just using gadgets; I'm driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand the nuts and bolts that power our digital world. Whether it's coding languages, emerging technologies, or the latest in artificial intelligence, I'm always eager to delve deeper and unravel the mysteries that make our digital existence possible. Beyond my personal pursuits, I'm deeply committed to fostering a sense of community in the tech world. Whether through sharing knowledge on online forums, attending tech meetups, or mentoring aspiring techies, I believe in the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing to propel us all forward.