- iPadOS 18 introduces Calculator with Math Notes, allowing users to solve mathematical expressions using Apple Pencil, with real-time handwritten and typed equation solving.
- Smart Script enhances handwritten notes, enabling users to edit, refine, and delete handwritten text, making note-taking more flexible and seamless on iPad.
- Customization options expand in iPadOS 18, with a redesigned Home Screen and Control Center offering personalized layouts, app icon styles, and third-party app integration.
iPadOS 18, now available for software updates, introduces a suite of powerful new features designed to boost the iPad experience. Built specifically for the unique capabilities of the iPad and Apple Pencil, the new operating system enhances productivity, customization, and creativity, making it easier than ever for users to complete tasks.
With iPadOS 18, Apple brings innovations like the long-awaited Calculator (I’m not kidding) with Math Notes, Smart Script for handwriting, customizable Home Screen and Control Center, and much more.
Calculator on iPad: Introducing Math Notes
iPadOS 18 finally brings the Calculator app to iPad, revolutionized with the Math Notes feature. This feature allows users to solve mathematical expressions using Apple Pencil.
Whether typed or handwritten, expressions are solved in real-time, and users can create variables, insert graphs, and save equations directly in the Notes app. The integration of scientific and basic calculators, along with unit conversions and a history function, makes Math Notes a versatile tool for both students and professionals.
Smart Script enhances handwritten notes
The new Smart Script feature takes handwritten note-taking to the next level. With the power of Apple Pencil, users can easily edit their handwritten text by adding spaces, pasting typed text in handwritten form, or deleting sections by scratching them out.
Smart Script also automatically refines handwriting, making it smoother and more legible, all while retaining the personal look and feel of a user’s writing style.
Customization and control center enhancements
iPadOS 18 introduces more ways to personalize the Home Screen and Control Center, allowing users to place app icons and widgets in any position, create a streamlined appearance, and customize app icons with tints and sizes.
The redesigned Control Center offers faster access to daily tasks, including new options for third-party app controls. Developers can also leverage the new Controls API to provide users with quick actions like starting virtual meetings or livestreams, making the iPad even more user-friendly.
Redesigned photos and messages apps
The Photos app in iPadOS 18 receives its biggest update yet, utilizing on-device machine learning to organize content by themes like people, pets, and trips. A new layout takes advantage of the iPad’s larger screen, providing easier browsing options without the need for manual album creation.
Messages also gets a significant upgrade with animated text effects, new Tapbacks featuring any emoji or sticker, and enhanced text formatting options. Users can now schedule messages, ensuring full control over their communication.
Apple Intelligence revolutionizes the iPad experience
Starting next month, Apple Intelligence will roll out for iPads with M1 chips and later models. This groundbreaking personal intelligence system combines generative AI with personal context, enabling users to streamline tasks such as writing, communication, and creativity.
The new Writing Tools will allow users to refine text across apps like Mail, Notes, and Pages, while Siri becomes more conversational, context-aware, and responsive. Apple Intelligence will also protect user privacy by processing data on-device, with complex tasks handled securely via Private Cloud Compute.
New Hearing Health features arrive with iPadOS 18
This fall, iPadOS 18 will introduce a revolutionary hearing health feature for AirPods Pro 2. Tailored for individuals experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss, this new capability turns AirPods Pro 2 into a personalized, clinical-grade hearing aid.
Users can complete a validated Hearing Test directly from their iPhone or iPad in the comfort of their home, allowing the device to adjust specifically to their hearing needs. With this free software update, Apple is making hearing assistance more accessible and customized, offering a seamless and convenient hearing aid experience.
iPadOS 18 availability
iPadOS 18 is available for a wide range of iPads, including iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (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), and iPad mini (5th generation and later).
This latest update makes the iPad more versatile and intelligent, with new features designed for Apple Pencil and innovative tools that enhance both productivity and creativity.
