For over two decades, the Texas Instruments (TI) graphing calculator has been a staple on the back-to-school shopping list for students across the United States. These calculators, often used in math and science classes, have become a symbol of academic life for high school students. The Texas Instruments calculator division has been a dominant force in this niche market for even longer, and its influence continues to be felt in classrooms today. In the latest episode of the podcast Version History, host David Pierce is joined by The Verge's Nilay Patel and Victoria Song to explore the rise and lasting impact of TI graphing calculators. The episode, part of the fifth season of the series, takes listeners back to the school years, following up on a previous discussion about the iconic computer game The Oregon Trail, which was once a common experience for students in early computer labs. The story of TI's success is one of innovation, marketing, and a unique position in the educational sector. While other companies have attempted to enter the market, TI has maintained its hold through a combination of factors, including the design of its calculators, the availability of educational resources, and the standardization of these devices in curricula across the country. This has made it difficult for competitors to challenge TI's dominance. As the conversation unfolds, the episode also touches on the broader implications of technology in education, the role of proprietary software, and how a single product can become deeply embedded in the experience of learning. Whether you're a student, educator, or tech enthusiast, the story of the TI calculator offers a fascinating look at how one company managed to shape a key part of the educational landscape for generations.