In this video, I give you a tour of the retro operating system of the Apple Newton MessagePad 2100. We find that there are many features of the device that make interaction quite natural and intuitive. Interestingly, many of these features can’t be found in modern mobile devices.

For example, to delete a word – just scribble. To copy a word, just double tap and drag. To draw a shape…just draw, and the Newton will smooth the lines. To make an appointment for Bob, just write “meeting with Bob.” In fact, with the Assist button mentioned in the video, you can do all of the following commands:

1. call/phone/ring/dial+name

2. fax

3. find/locate/search for/look for + query item

4. mail/email+name

5. print

6. remember/remember to/remind me + task

7. schedule/meet/meet me/talk to/breakfast/lunch/dinner/holiday/birthday/b-day/bday/anniversary + name

8. time/time in/what time/what’s the time in + location

Beyond the note application, the Newton includes other PIM basics like a contacts and calendar application, a calculator, and others.

Overall, I’ve found my experience with the Newton to be surprisingly fun and interesting. It may replace my standard yellow notebook that I use while traveling. The Newton is better than a Tablet PC because it has far greater battery life, is cheaper (they can be had for less than $100 on eBay), lighter, and completely focused on being an easy to use PIM companion.

See also:

Apple Newton: Hardware Tour

Apple Newton: Some History and Interesting Facts

Unboxing of the Newton MessagePad 2100

Apple Newton on Wikipedia