The traditional pocket calculator continues to hold its ground against the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Japan’s Casio remains a key player in the calculator market, with millions of units sold each year. Despite the surge of AI technology, calculators offer reliable performance without the errors that sometimes plague AI chatbots.
Casio’s Steadfast Market Position
Casio, a well-known manufacturer, is exploring expansion opportunities, even as the market for personal calculators displays a downward trend. According to Tomoaki Sato, a Casio executive, while calculators are becoming less common in business environments, they maintain an essential role for many users.
- Casio sold 39 million calculators in the year ending March 2025.
- This represents a decrease from 45 million sold in 2019-20 but an increase from 31 million in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- The company operates in approximately 100 countries.
The Advantages of Calculators
Calculators remain an affordable alternative to smartphones. They are powered by batteries and solar energy, making them suitable for schools in developing regions. Many users appreciate the tactile experience that calculators provide. Thitinan Suntisubpool, a shop owner in Bangkok’s Chinatown, highlighted the durability and convenience of her calculator, especially for conducting transactions.
Conversely, a nearby vendor pointed out that sales have been “quiet,” indicating a varied demand landscape in the market.
Technological Developments in Mathematics
The world of mathematics continues to evolve, with AI achieving notable feats. In July, AI models from Google, OpenAI, and DeepSeek reached gold-level scores at the prestigious International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). This marked a significant milestone for AI in computational accuracy, although no AI achieved a perfect score, unlike five human competitors.
Future of Calculators
Experts believe that while calculators will not disappear overnight, they may gradually become less prevalent. Gregor Dolinar, president of the IMO and an engineering professor, notes that students often prefer the convenience of their smartphones for calculations. He remarked, “It’s easier to just ask AI.”
Calculators remain vital tools, particularly in regions lacking reliable internet access. Ryohei Saito, a general manager at Casio in Thailand, emphasized that calculators are designed for specific functions, ensuring continued demand even in an age dominated by smartphones and AI.
Conclusion
While calculators face challenges from advancing technology, their reliability and affordability secure their relevance. As Casio adapts to market changes, the enduring nature of the calculator remains a testament to its utility in both everyday tasks and complex calculations.
