Despite repeated criticism of the iPhone keyboard, especially with regard to automatic correction and lack of customization options, the iOS 18 update came to add a new smart function that may save users a lot of time.

The new update allows calculations and conversions to be performed directly from within the keyboard, without the need to open the calculator application.

Instant calculations inside the keyboard








With iOS 18, it is now possible to write any equation within applications such as Messages or Notes, and the result will appear immediately as a suggestion at the top of the keyboard.

example:

When writing: 4 + 9 =
The output appears immediately: 13
It can be inserted with a single click of the spacebar

The feature is not limited to simple operations, but also includes:

Percentages
Square roots
Sequential operations
More complex equations

Its only condition is that the “=” sign be written at the end of the process so that the system recognizes the request.

Convert units quickly

Besides calculations, the keyboard also supports real-time unit conversion.

Examples:

16 Celsius = → Convert to Fahrenheit directly
2m in inches = → View the result instantly
Conversions also include distances, lengths, currencies, and some other units.
Activation method

If the feature does not appear, you can check:

Update the device to iOS 18 or later
Activate the Show Math Results option
Activate Predictive Text
This is done through: Settings > General > Keyboard

Additional notes

The Apple Notes application offers broader capabilities in this field, as it allows creating equations based on variables and updating the results automatically, in addition to the ability to draw graphs using symbols such as x and y, which makes it especially useful for students and those who deal with calculations frequently.

Although some people continue to prefer applications such as Gboard and Microsoft SwiftKey, Apple is gradually working on developing its keyboard to become more intelligent and effective than before. (Arabic)