This translation is precisely what distinguishes this piece of technology as new media. Furthermore, this technology could detect what shapes the user drew and make them into perfect computer shapes.
Through this translation to computer text, Newton was able to comprehend action words, such as “send” or “schedule” and act upon them. The marketing of the Newton MessagePad aimed for a general audience through vivid imagery and descriptive messages, but its faulty hardware and inability to produce what was promised led to its ultimate demise in February of 1998, just five years after its debut.Īmong all of the functions advertised, its main selling point was its ability to translate human text into computer text when the user used the provided stylist. Through its ability to send faxes, take notes, manage calendars, and store contacts, Newton was advertised to consumers as the object that can replace all existing technologies, including a fax machine, a notebook, a planner, and a phonebook (Honan, 2013).
#Apple newton portable#
First appearing in 1993, the Newton MessagePad was marketed as a simple and portable device that acted as your personal digital assistant.
Apple’s first attempt at a tablet was an utter failure.