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Cracking Open

Cracking open Apple’s first tablet: The Newton MessagePad

Takeaway: Before there was the Apple iPad, there was the Newton MessagePad. TechRepublic cracks open the Newton for a look inside the Apple iPad’s ancestor.

The iPad isn’t Apple’s first foray into the tablet market. Before there was the iPad, there was the Newton MessagePad.

Introduced in 1993, it paved the way for device like the Palm PDA, Pocket PC, and more than a decade later the Apple’s own iPhone. Unfortunately, the Newton was Ridiculed for poor performance, it didn’t last long in the marketplace, but its influence lingers on today.

In 2008, TechRepublic got our hands on an Apple Newton H1000, also known as an OMP (Original Message Pad). This was the first Newton on the market. We just couldn’t resist taking it apart. Here’s a look at the technology inside the Apple iPad’s early ancestor.

Apple Newton MessagePad tablet/handheld computer

Next Page (More photos) »

Update 12/8/2011: This post originally appeared in our TR Dojo blog.

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Bill Detwiler

About Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler is Head Technology Editor of TechRepublic. Previously, he worked as a Support Tech and IT Manager in the social research and energy industries.

Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler
Bill Detwiler is Head Technology Editor for TechRepublic. Previously he worked as a Technical Support Associate and Information Technology Manager in the social research and energy industries. Bill is a Microsoft Certified Professional with experience in Windows administration, data management, desktop support, and system security.

Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler
Bill Detwiler has nothing to disclose. He doesn't hold investments in the technology companies he covers.