MessagePad

1993.08Newton OS 1.0 - 1.1

Background

It took Apple more than six and a half years to develop the first Newton MessagePad. When it was finally released it had impressive specifications. 20 MHz processor, pressure-sensitive LCD-display, LocalTalk port, infra-red beamer. However, all these features were overshadowed by the Newtons handwriting recognition. It was Apple's pride and the expectations were high. However, it was far away from its promised 95 percent accuracy.

SourceThe Apple Museum

Key Specs

DisplayLow-power reflective LCD Grayscale LCD (16-level grayscale)
ChipARM 610
MemoryBuilt-in 640 KB
Weight0.41 kg

Full Specifications

Basic Info

Release Date1993.08
IntroducedAugust 1993
DiscontinuedMarch 1994
Original Price$699
OS SupportNewton OS 1.0 - 1.1
Support StatusDiscontinued (Obsolete)

Chip & Storage

ChipARM 610(20 MHz RISC processor)
MemoryBuilt-in 640 KB
StorageBuilt-in 4 MB ROM

Display

Screen SizeLow-power reflective LCD
Screen TypeGrayscale LCD (16-level grayscale)
Resolution336 × 240

Connectivity

Wired PortSerial port ×1 (LocalTalk compatible) / Infrared ×1 (low-power, half-duplex) / Expansion slot ×One PCMCIA Type II slot
Input MethodFlat stylus
RequiresMacintosh computer running System 7.0.1 or later; PC compatible computer running Microsoft Windows 3.0 or later

Power

Battery4 AAA batteries or NiCd rechargeable battery pack, or external power
Battery Life14 hours (4 AAA batteries) / 4 hours (NiCd)

Body & Dimensions

Size & Weight114.3 mm × 19.1 mm × 184.2 mm,0.41 kg

Color

Available Colors

Model Identifier

Model IDH1000