Newton MessagePad

In August 1993, Apple introduced a revolutionary new device that promised to change the way we interact with technology: the Newton MessagePad. This personal digital assistant (PDA) was part of the Newton series, which was designed, manufactured, and sold by Apple.

The MessagePad was a sleek and compact device that featured a 20 MHz ARM 610 RISC processor, 640 KB of RAM, 4 MB of ROM, and a 336 x 240 screen. It was powered by either 4 AAA batteries or an external power supply, making it incredibly portable and versatile.

However, despite its impressive specs and innovative design, the MessagePad struggled to gain traction in the market. Its high price point of $700 put it out of reach for many consumers, and it was ultimately discontinued on March 4, 1994.

Today, the Newton MessagePad is 29 years old and is considered a piece of tech history. While it may have been a failure for Apple, it paved the way for the development of other PDAs and smartphones that would ultimately change the way we communicate and access information.

Despite its short lifespan, the MessagePad remains a fascinating piece of technology that promised to revolutionize the way we interact with our devices. It may not have succeeded in its time, but it will always be remembered as a pioneer in the world of personal computing.

Newton MessagePad
Source: turbosquid.com – Newton MessagePad

Newton MessagePad Release Date and Original Price

IntroducedAugust 3, 1993
DiscontinuedMarch 4, 1994
Model Identifier1
Model NumberH1000
Order NumberUnknown
Original Price$700
ColorsGrey
Weight0.9 Ibs.
408.23 Grams
Dimensions7.25” H x 4.5” W x 0.75” D
18.41 cm H x 11.43 cm W x 1.9 cm

Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorARM 610 RISC
Processor Speed20 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores1

Memory

ROM4 MB
RAM640 KB

Display

Input MethodFlat Pen
Resolution336 x 240

Expansion

Expansion Slots1 – PCMCIA-Slot II

Connections

Serial1 – LocalTalk compatible
Infrared1 – Low-power, half-duplex

Software

Original OSNewton OS 1.0
Maximum OSNewton OS 1.1

Power

Battery4 AAA or NiCd re-chargeable battery or external power supply
Battery LifeUnknown

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