Apple is finally planning a Calculator app for the iPad, over 14 years after launching the device. iPadOS 18 will include a built-in Calculator app for all iPad models that are compatible with the software update, which is expected to be unveiled during the opening keynote of Apple’s annual developers conference WWDC on June 10. The lack of an official Calculator app on the iPad has been a long-running meme on social media, as users have waited for its arrival. In the meantime, iPad users have relied on calculator apps in the App Store, such as PCalc and Calcbot. macOS 15 will feature a revamped Calculator app with integration with the Notes app, a resizable window, a sidebar that lists recent calculations, and more. While we have not independently confirmed those details, it is possible that the updated Mac app will be based on the new iPad app.
Report: Apple expected to launch new iPad models May 7
Apple will reportedly launch new products in a May 7 online event. The company sent invitations to the media and those files feature a graphic that includes the iPad stylus, Apple Pencil. New iPad models are expected to be released this year because none were announced in 2023, according to the report. The company could also announce changes to the iPad Pro and the iPad Air, the report said. The report also noted that this is the first launch event Apple has held in the spring since March 2022 and that the company sometimes releases new colors for iPhones, Apple Watches and accessories during that season. The company is expected to unveil new iPads and accessories at the event, because it’s been a long time since it has done so. Observers also expect the company to make more new product announcements — these ones centered on artificial intelligence (AI) — in June at its Worldwide Developers Conference.
Apple’s Generative AI features in iOS 18 will use on-device processing instead of cloud-based for faster operations
Apple plans to implement its LLM or large language models to run on-device for a range of benefits over cloud-based processing. iOS 18’s forthcoming AI features will be able to perform operations with on-device processing. This means that the forthcoming utilities will not be restricted to certain hardware requirements, but the company could distribute high-end features on premium or newer models. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reaffirms that Apple’s LLM with generative AI additions will use on-device processing in iOS 18. Gurman states that based on all indicators, Apple’s large language models will operate on-device instead of cloud-based processing. While it is good news for users who own older iPhone models, there are certain drawbacks to it. For instance, on-device processing will make the technology less capable than the cloud-based solution. However, the company could compensate for the capability with better privacy and security, as entire operations are happening on-device. Another major benefit is the speed of operations, as the LLM models will be able to respond in real-time, instead of showing a waiting sign so the device can fetch information from the cloud before presenting it to the user.
The European Commission is set to approve opening up of Apple’s NFC platform to third-party mobile wallets as soon as May
The European Commission is set to approve Apple’s opening up of Apple’s NFC platform to third-party mobile wallets as soon as May, which could help save the iPhone maker from a $40 billion fine. In January 2024, Apple announced it was making changes to iOS to comply with the inbound EU Digital Markets Act. As part of this, Apple was to introduce new APIs to use its NFC hardware, specifically aiming at banking and wallet apps operating in the European Economic Area. This access would allow banks to avoid having to use Apple Pay or the Apple Wallet, and therefore any potential transaction charges Apple would normally apply through using its services. Apple was asked to make some small changes after the EU received feedback from Apple Pay’s competitors and customers. As Apple may still have to make more fine-tuning of its plans, report sources say that the May approval could be delayed, but the Commission is aiming for it to occur by the summer.
Apple acquires Datakalab, an AI startup specializing in on-device processing
Apple has reportedly acquired Datakalab, a startup specializing in AI compression and computer vision technology. Datakalab described itself as “experts in low power, runtime efficient, and deep learning algorithms” that work on device. Datakalab develops computer image analysis algorithms to measure flows in public space. The images are instantly transformed into anonymized statistical data processed locally in 100ms. Datakalab does not store any images or personal data and only keeps statistical data. Datakalab products are built according to the principle of “Privacy by Design”. The acquisition comes as Apple is expected to bring a suite of AI features to iOS 18 later this year. Datakalab also developed advanced vision-based technology, which could play a role in Apple’s Vision Pro ambitions into the future. The company’s advanced facial recognition technology could also contribute to things like Photos and Face ID.