Apple Newton Messagepad 2100

This is the device that coined the phrase, personal digital assistant (PDA).  It is the PDA that has caused the most controversy because of its birth, development and eventual discontinuation.  To own a Newton is to not only have access to a PDA that is a productivity workhorse in a modern information technology environment but to also own a prominent piece of computing history.

A JOY TO USE

There is no question that its user interface design is one of the best ever produced.  Its ability to weave pen gestures and visual elements together with its model for storing and sharing data between applications creates a user interface that is intuitive and a joy to use.  Its ability to engage the user creates a sense of loyalty so strong, that even now 11 years since it was discontinued it is studied by social behaviourists and anthropologists.  Only the iPhone has created a similar level of enthusiasm in modern times. 

PRODUCTIVITY

A 5.5" screen allows a user to write lengthy document without the fatigue produced by a small tiny smartphone screen or trying to thumb a 300 word memo for the product development meeting tomorrow.  Handwriting Recognition on a MP2100 is just as good as anything available today.  In fact the whole Handwriting experience is better than anything today when all the gestures for cutting, copying, correcting and annotating are taken into account.  Spreadsheet, word processor, project management, email, PIM applications are all available.  These days nearly all freely downloadable. 

A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT

A Newton user is never being far from support.  The Newton community is thriving and welcoming.  Answers to questions are provided on FAQ websites, mirrored in several places.  Questions can be placed on the Newtontalk email list and are mostly answered within a few minutes.  Other websites provide plenty of how-to guides (myapplenewton.blogspot.com; tools.unna.org/wikiwikinewt/; splorp.com/newton/glossary/)

Google "Apple Newton" and discover why this Mobile computing device is the doorway to a rich and rewarding portable computing and communications experience.