With iOS 18, Apple took a bold step by completely revamping its Calculator app. This update introduced advanced features such as Math Notes and, controversially, removed the C/AC button. In its place, a partial delete button (similar to a backspace) was added, which frustrated some users.
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This year, it seems Apple has taken user feedback to heart. In iOS 26, the Calculator app welcomes back the dedicated C/AC button, while still retaining the backspace key.
Two Buttons, Two Distinct Functions
The backspace button now permanently resides at the top left of the numeric pad, allowing users to delete one digit at a time. Adjacent to this, the C/AC button has returned to its traditional role. When the screen displays zero (inactive mode), pressing AC resets the calculator completely, clearing all elements of the current operation.
In active mode, pressing C deletes the last entered number without affecting the rest of the calculation.
The former +/- button (for changing the sign of numbers) hasn’t disappeared—it has moved to the bottom left of the pad. This space was previously occupied by the button that toggled between different modes (basic, scientific, Math Notes), which can now be accessed via a new icon in the toolbar at the top right of the screen.
On the image below, you can engage in a little “spot the four differences” game!
Enhancements Introduced by iOS 18
After years of anticipation, the Calculator app finally made its way to the iPad! With iPadOS 18, Apple brought the same redesign as in iOS 18—a clean look, but optimized for the tablet’s larger screen.
Upon opening, a button at the bottom left of the keyboard provides access to three modes: basic calculator, scientific calculator, and Math Notes. The first two modes now display complete operations before solving them, include a history (icon at the top left) to easily revisit past calculations, and feature a quick conversion tool for lengths, weights, currencies, etc.
The real novelty was Math Notes. This feature allows users to type or handwrite equations, either using the keyboard or with the Apple Pencil as if on a notebook. Users can assign values to variables (ideal for a class or budgeting), and even generate interactive graphs: simply write or type an equation, and it is plotted instantly.
Multiple equations can be added to the same graph to see how they interact. Math Notes are automatically stored in the Notes app, in a dedicated folder.
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Discover all the new features of iOS 26 across its various beta versions—from beta 2 to beta 6, each release brings more to explore.
Our Videos
Explore our series of videos to get a closer look at the updates and tutorials on how to make the most of the new features introduced in iOS 26.