This Apple Newton MessagePad emulator is based on Einstein and runs on a server at pdamuseum.eu. It is displayed through a photograph of a real MessagePad 2100 to create the illusion of using an actual device. Due to the nature of the emulation, each session is limited to 30 minutes.
What you need to know:
- The Newton MessagePads relied heavily on a stylus for text input and for navigating the graphical user interface. Because of this, the emulator is best experienced on a computer, tablet or phone that supports stylus input. Without a stylus, you can still get by using a touchpad or by drawing directly on the screen with your finger. Using a mouse is possible, but will feel rather awkward.
- The emulation takes you directly to the notes application where you can start to try out things like handwriting recognition and letting Newton recognize your shapes and perfecting them. There will also be a game which you can try out by first selecting the “Extras” icon at the bottom of the screen.
- A real Newton has a built-in loudspeaker and there are cool sound-effects for instance when you erase some text in the notes application. Unfortunately there is no sound in this emulation.
- You have 30 minutes to play with the device. After that, it is reset, and any changes are lost. This is so that more visitors can have a chance to play with the emulator. The remaining time is displayed on top of the Newton.
- If you need access to advanced Einstein features such as installing additional applications, you are better off running the emulator locally on your own computer, where all features are available.
- I hope you enjoy this opportunity to try the Newton emulator without having to install anything on your computer. As always, all feedback is greatly appreciated.
- Simply close the window when you are done.