iOS 18 took away a calculator feature you probably didn't even know about

Some users who installed iOS 18 on their iPhones noticed that a nifty Calculator feature has been removed. The feature in question is the option to swipe to delete a digit. In case you didn’t even know this was a feature, you’re not alone. Not many iPhone users even knew this existed, which is likely why it got the boot with iOS 18.

Here’s a support video from Apple that highlights how this feature works (at least how it works on iOS versions before iOS 18):

Some users who noticed the change took to Reddit and X to share their disappointment. Other’s were more surprised that they didn’t know that this was a feature to begin with. One Reddit user expressed their regret: “I wish I knew this was an option when it was available.” This sentiment was echoed by many others who had never discovered the feature until news of its removal spread.

The swipe-to-delete function was particularly useful for larger iPhone screens, allowing for quick corrections without the need to reach for a dedicated delete button. As one user put it, “It was kind of an epic feature, especially for larger screen sizes.”

However, not all hope is lost for those who relied on this hidden gem. Apple has implemented alternative methods for digit deletion and clearing. The “AC” (All Clear) button now doubles as a delete button for single digits, and a long press on the new back button will clear all entered numbers.

Some users are adapting to the change, albeit reluctantly. As a user noted, “Press and hold the NEW back button and the ‘all clear’ function wipes out the numbers. I still don’t appreciate the change, but this will work I suppose.” That said, what are your thoughts on Apple’s decision to remove the ability to swipe to delete digits from the Calculator app? Let us know in the comments section below.