Calcverse is a collection of simple, focused online calculators built by a solo developer as a counterpoint to the current hype around AI agents. The creator emphasizes the value of small, well-executed tools that solve specific problems efficiently. The calculators currently offered on the site cover areas like loan comparisons, unit conversions, and investment calculations, with more planned for the future. The project embraces a minimalist design and aims to provide a practical alternative to overly complex software.
The creator of Calcverse.live, a website showcasing a diverse collection of online calculators, has humbly presented their project on Hacker News, contrasting their work with the prevailing trend of developing sophisticated AI agents. While acknowledging the current excitement and focus within the tech community on artificial intelligence and autonomous agents, the developer has chosen to dedicate their efforts to a more grounded pursuit: the creation of practical and readily accessible calculation tools. Calcverse.live appears to host a variety of calculators, potentially catering to a wide range of needs, from simple arithmetic to more specialized calculations across diverse fields. The developer implicitly suggests a certain contentment in pursuing this less glamorous, but arguably equally valuable, path of building functional tools for everyday use, even while the broader technological landscape is captivated by the allure of artificial intelligence. The presentation implies a deliberate choice to focus on providing practical utility through these calculators, offering a tangible and immediately usable resource to visitors of the site. In essence, the developer is highlighting the enduring relevance and importance of fundamental calculation tools in a world increasingly dominated by complex algorithms and intelligent systems.
Summary of Comments ( 80 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43137248
HN users generally praised the calculator's clean UI/UX and appreciated the developer's focus on a simple, well-executed project rather than chasing the AI hype. Several commenters suggested potential improvements or expansions, including adding more unit conversions, financial calculators, and even integrating with existing tools like Excel or Google Sheets. Some pointed out the existing prevalence of specialized online calculators, questioning the project's long-term viability. Others expressed interest in the technical implementation details, particularly the use of Qwik and Partytown. A few jokingly questioned the project's description as "just" calculators, recognizing the complexity and value in building a robust and user-friendly calculation tool.
The Hacker News post titled "Show HN: While the world builds AI Agents, I'm just building calculators" sparked a small but interesting discussion.
One commenter expressed appreciation for the simplicity and focus of the project, contrasting it with the current hype surrounding AI agents. They saw value in creating tools that serve a specific purpose well, rather than chasing the latest trend. They also pointed out the potential for calculators to become more complex and powerful, hinting at the possibility of the creator eventually incorporating some of the AI technologies they are currently eschewing.
Another commenter focused on the business aspect, inquiring about the project's monetization strategy. This led the original poster (OP) to explain they were considering a freemium model with potential add-ons like custom themes and functions. This exchange offered a glimpse into the practical considerations of developing and sustaining a project like this.
A third comment highlighted the importance of discoverability, suggesting that submitting the calculators to various app stores could significantly increase their reach. This practical advice offered a potential avenue for growth.
The discussion also touched upon the technical aspects of the project. One user asked about the technology used to build the calculators, to which the OP replied that they were using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This clarified the development stack and offered insight into the project's technical foundation.
Finally, there's a short exchange regarding the user interface. One commenter pointed out the lack of an equals sign (=) on the percentage calculator and enquired about its functionality, prompting the OP to explain it and also admit the UI confusion. This small detail highlighted the importance of user feedback in identifying and addressing usability issues.
While the overall number of comments is relatively low, they provide a well-rounded perspective on the project, covering aspects from design and technical implementation to business strategy and discoverability. The comments generally express support for the project's focus on simplicity and utility in a landscape increasingly dominated by complex AI-driven applications.