Customer Reviews (500)

Tvmayor • 2024-11-16T10:09:31-07:00

App hasn’t been updated in 4+ years. Stored registers will 0 out for no reason whatsoever. Stored number in register will be exponentially higher when you recall it, again, no reason whatsoever. Sent a support ticket in years ago and no answer. Do not waste your money.

ljs015 • 2024-11-05T08:57:42-07:00

Excellent hp emulator. One suggestion would make it perfect hp emulator: haptic keyboard feedback. Add this and this will be perfect!

saaiphone • 2024-10-14T18:19:06-07:00

Just bought the App. Really like it!

Summary of Key Insights

The Vicinno Financial Calculator app is generally well-received as a reliable emulator of the HP 12C financial calculator, particularly by users familiar with Reverse Polish Notation (RPN). Its core strength lies in accurately replicating the functionality of the physical HP 12C, offering convenience and portability. However, the app has faced significant criticism due to poorly received UI updates that deviated from the classic HP 12C design and introduced usability issues like unresponsive keys and crashing. While the developer addressed this by reintroducing the classic look as an option, the experience highlights the importance of user interface consistency and thorough testing before major updates. The app struggles with compatibility issues on certain devices and operating systems. Overall sentiment is positive but heavily influenced by UI changes and stability.

Key Strengths:

  • Accurate emulation of HP 12C functionality.
  • Convenience and portability.
  • Faster calculation speeds compared to the physical HP 12C.
  • Responsive developer (in some cases) regarding user feedback and bug fixes.

Key Weaknesses:

  • Unstable updates leading to crashes and usability problems.
  • Poorly received UI redesigns deviating from the classic HP 12C look.
  • Inconsistent key responsiveness reported by some users.
  • Lack of haptic feedback.
  • Compatibility issues with certain devices (iPads, iPhone X, etc.) and operating systems.
  • Lack of response to some support tickets.

Overall Sentiment: Positive, but with significant negativity surrounding specific updates.

Quantitative Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: Based on the given data, we can estimate the average rating. However, without weighting, it's difficult to be precise.
  • Score Distribution: 5-star (60.8%), 4-star (6.2%), 3-star (3.2%), 2-star (5.6%), 1-star (24.2%)

Data & Methodology Overview

  • Data Sample Size: 500 reviews
  • Time Frame: The reviews span several years, with a noticeable concentration of negative reviews around specific update releases (particularly related to UI changes).
  • Analysis Methods: The analysis involved a qualitative assessment of user reviews, identifying recurring themes, sentiments, and feature requests. Keyword extraction was used to highlight frequently mentioned issues and positive aspects.

Key User Pain Points

  • Unresponsive Keys/Sticky Buttons: Many users reported issues with keys, especially the "0" and decimal point, not registering presses consistently, significantly impacting usability.
  • App Crashing: Updates caused the app to crash frequently, particularly on newer iPhone models and iOS versions, rendering it unusable.
  • Poor UI Redesign: The UI redesign deviating from the classic HP 12C look was overwhelmingly criticized, with users finding it harder to read and less intuitive.
  • Compatibility Issues: Several users experienced compatibility problems with specific devices (iPads, iPhone X) and operating systems (iOS 11, iOS 12), resulting in display issues and app freezing.
  • Lack of Haptic Feedback: Some users missed the tactile feedback of a physical calculator and requested haptic feedback for the keys.
  • Lack of Support Response: Several users reported submitting support tickets and not receiving a response from the developer.
  • Data Loss: Some users reported stored registers being zeroed out or having their values exponentially increased.

Frequently Requested Features

  • Option to Revert to Classic HP 12C Look: This was the most frequently requested feature, driven by dissatisfaction with the UI redesign.
  • Haptic Feedback: Users wanted haptic feedback to simulate the tactile feel of a physical calculator.
  • Apple Watch Support/Widget: Some users requested an Apple Watch version or a widget for quick access.
  • Split View on iPad: Users wanted Split View support for multitasking on iPads.
  • Ability to Copy/Paste: Users wanted to be able to copy results and paste values into the calculator.
  • Mac Version: Some users requested a Mac version of the app.
  • Improved Key Responsiveness: Users wanted the keys to respond reliably to every touch.

Strengths and Positive Aspects

  • Accurate Emulation of HP 12C Functionality: Users consistently praised the app for accurately replicating the functionality of the HP 12C.
  • Convenience and Portability: The app allowed users to have their trusted HP 12C calculator with them at all times without carrying an extra device.
  • Familiarity for HP 12C Users: Users familiar with the HP 12C found the app easy to use and a seamless transition from the physical calculator.
  • Faster Calculation Speeds: Many users noted that the app calculated faster than the physical HP 12C.
  • Availability of User Guide: The inclusion of a user guide within the app was appreciated.
  • Responsive Developer (Sometimes): Some users praised the developer for responding to feedback and quickly fixing bugs.
  • Option to Restore Classic Look: After negative feedback, the developer re-introduced the classic look as an option, which was well-received.

Prioritized Action Recommendations

  • High Priority:
    • Address Key Responsiveness Issues: Fix the inconsistent key responsiveness, particularly for the "0" and decimal point keys. This is a critical usability issue.
    • Thoroughly Test Updates: Implement a more rigorous testing process before releasing updates to prevent crashes and compatibility issues.
    • Improve UI/UX Testing: Conduct user testing on any UI changes before release to gauge user reaction and identify potential usability problems.
    • Resolve Compatibility Issues: Ensure compatibility with the latest iOS versions and devices, especially iPads and iPhones.
  • Medium Priority:
    • Implement Haptic Feedback: Add haptic feedback as an option to improve the user experience and simulate the feel of a physical calculator.
    • Improve Customer Support Response Time: Respond to support tickets promptly and provide helpful solutions.
    • Implement More Robust Save/Restore Functionality: Ensure stored registers are not corrupted or lost.
  • Low Priority:
    • Develop Apple Watch App/Widget: Create an Apple Watch app or widget for quick access to basic calculations.
    • Add Split View Support on iPad: Implement Split View support for multitasking on iPads.
    • Develop Mac Version: Consider developing a Mac version of the app to cater to users who prefer desktop calculators.

Opportunities for Startup Ideas

  • HP 12C Training App: A dedicated app for learning RPN and mastering the HP 12C's functions, potentially integrated with the calculator app. Could include interactive tutorials and real-world examples.
  • Customizable Financial Calculator App: A financial calculator app with a highly customizable interface, allowing users to choose from various themes (including the classic HP 12C look) and key layouts.
  • Financial Calculator Hardware Emulator: A hardware device that emulates the physical feel and functionality of various financial calculators (HP 12C, TI BA II Plus, etc.), connecting to mobile devices via Bluetooth.

Trends and Observations

  • Strong Nostalgia for HP 12C: A significant portion of users have a strong attachment to the HP 12C and prefer its classic design.
  • Negative Reaction to UI Changes: Users are highly sensitive to changes in the app's UI, especially when it deviates from the familiar HP 12C look.
  • Importance of Stability: Stability and reliability are paramount for a calculator app, as users rely on it for accurate and consistent results.
  • Developer Responsiveness Matters: Users appreciate responsive developers who address feedback and fix bugs promptly.
  • iOS Updates as a Trigger: New iOS updates frequently trigger compatibility issues, requiring developers to update their apps quickly.

Conclusion

The Vicinno Financial Calculator app has the potential to be the leading HP 12C emulator on iOS, given its accurate functionality and the strong user base familiar with RPN. However, the app's success hinges on maintaining stability, carefully considering UI changes, and providing responsive customer support. Prioritizing bug fixes, thorough testing, and user feedback will be crucial for retaining existing users and attracting new ones. A focus on stability and UI consistency, combined with a responsive development approach, will ensure the app remains a valuable tool for financial professionals and students alike.

Overall, the app is recommended for users who need an HP 12C emulator on their iOS devices, but users should be aware of potential stability issues and UI preferences.

Original App Link

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vicinno-financial-calculator/id400147867?uo=2