About 20 years ago, my first calculator, a "cheap" model from Radio Shack, the EC-221, was a four-function LED unit costing $10.95. That too, was an incredible machine considering the milestone achievements which had made it possible. Yet, as I have sketched in this article, the "evolution" of calculators leading to today's units was still underway, with today's models several "stages" more sophisticated than those of 1977.
Today, $10 at a Wal-Mart or K-Mart will buy you much more than a simple four-function calculator. And if the past is a key to the future, tomorrow's calculators will be even more sophisticated for relatively less money.
I was amazed in mid-1995 to buy a Radio Shack model EC-210 which recites my computations in nine different languages, plus has a time-alarm feature. All this for a mere $9.95 sale price.
Also, you can even find very inexpensive bright-colored, "talking" calculators sold for children! (The first ones were developed in the mid-1970s for the blind.)
I can only wonder what new major milestones will be achieved in the future evolution of these amazing little machines? Voice activation? More computer-like features at rock-bottom prices? Color displays?
In any case, it will be exciting to watch what really happens!