Apple Announces New Newton Operating System - 10/1995

CUPERTINO, California--October 20, 1995--To further extend its lead in next-generation personal digital assistant (PDA) development, Apple Computer, Inc., today announced plans to ship an advanced version of its Newton operating system, Newton 2.0, to customers beginning in December. Apple has arranged to preview the new Newton 2.0 operating system and related Newton platform products in a dedicated booth at the upcoming industry trade show, COMDEX, which takes place in Las Vegas, Nov. 13-17, 1995 (Booth #4354, North Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center) as well as Macworld Sydney, Australia, and Apple Expo, UK, the week of Nov. 6, 1995.

Newton 2.0 is a major revision of the operating system and is the result of more than two years of extensive customer feedback and user testing. It is designed to advance the Newton platform by providing improved organizational and communications capabilities, as well as the ability to integrate Newton PDAs with Windows and Mac OS-based personal computers and enterprise environments. The Newton 2.0 platform is also designed to provide a more flexible and extensible architecture for a growing number of partners and solutions providers, including independent software vendors (ISVs), systems integrators (SIs), and value-added resellers (VARs).

"The PDA market continues to evolve, with the Newton platform at the forefront of both technology and market leadership," said David Nagel, senior vice president, Research and Development, Apple Computer. "Apple's strategy to drive the market forward hinges on delivering compelling mobile solutions, coupled with a business focus that aims to forge strong partnerships with key market players."

Newton 2.0 will be available worldwide initially on the Apple MessagePad 120 beginning in December, and is expected to be available on products from Newton licensees in 1996. Additional technology features that focus on giving customers the capability to connect with their personal computers and enterprise structures will also be available starting in December and then throughout the first two quarters of 1996. The new, more open operating system will be accompanied by more flexible, productive tools for developers using Windows or Mac OS-based personal computers, making it an ideal platform for vertical applications development.

Apple plans to support the Newton 2.0 platform through a variety of customer, developer, licensee and channel programs. The company has worked closely with its developer, SI/VAR and licensee communities to bring a broad selection of new applications and solutions to market in the areas of information organization, communications, and integration with personal computers and enterprise structures.

Apple's current distribution strategy for the MessagePad 120 includes a mix of channels, including computer, consumer electronics and specialty retail outlets, as well as catalog sales. Consumers will also be able to access information about the Newton platform via the Newton homepage on the World Wide Web (www.info.apple.com/newton).

Existing Apple MessagePad 120 customers will be able to upgrade their systems beginning in December. Customers with the earlier MessagePad 100 and 110 models will be able to take advantage of a rebate program beginning early next year.

Apple Computer, Inc., a recognized pioneer and innovator in the information industry, creates powerful solutions based on easy-to-use personal computers, servers, peripherals, software, on-line services, and personal digital assistants. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) develops, manufactures, licenses and markets products, technologies and services for the business, education, consumer, scientific, engineering and government markets in over 140 countries.

See Also