Numbers up: Calculators hold out against AI

Despite the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, the traditional pocket calculator remains a steadfast tool, boasting millions of annual sales. Casio, a leading manufacturer from Japan, continues to see potential for growth in regions where reliable technology is crucial. As Casio executive Tomoaki Sato noted, while AI can falter on basic math tasks, calculators consistently deliver accurate results. The decline in calculator usage in some markets is undeniable, according to Sato. He acknowledged that the demand for personal calculators, especially in business, is waning. With smartphones and web applications capable of performing basic arithmetic, the calculator faces tough competition. However, its affordability, battery efficiency, and solar options make it an attractive choice for schools in developing countries—an area where Casio is focusing its expansion efforts. Customers still appreciate the tactile experience of using a calculator. For instance, Thitinan Suntisubpool, a shop owner in Bangkok, values the durability of her calculator, citing its convenience in transactions. In contrast, another vendor nearby reported a decline in calculator sales, indicating varying consumer preferences. At a Casio factory in Thailand, workers diligently assemble calculators, highlighting their ongoing demand. Ryohei Saito, a general manager at Casio, emphasized that not all areas have access to smartphones and that calculators serve essential functions without the distractions of advanced technology. Over the past year, Casio sold 39 million calculators globally, demonstrating a slight increase from the previous year's sales, which dipped during the pandemic. The company, which pioneered the compact all-electric calculator in 1957, continues to adapt in a changing market. The calculator's legacy has even made headlines recently, with the suspension of an auction for a historical calculating machine, 'La Pascaline', underscoring the device's significance in the evolution of technology. In the realm of competitive mathematics, AI models from major tech companies recently achieved gold-level scores at the International Mathematical Olympiad, although they fell short of perfect scores attained by human participants. IMO president Gregor Dolinar remarked on the intriguing developments in AI's mathematical capabilities, suggesting that while calculators may be less critical now, their physical presence may gradually diminish as students increasingly turn to smartphones for calculations.