Apple Newton Messagepad Hits Stores Nationwide
CUPERTINO, Calif. — September 2, 1993 — Following a sell-out introduction in the New York and Boston areas, Apple(R) Computer Inc. (NASDAQ-NMS: AAPL) today announced that Newton(TM) MessagePads(TM) are shipping in quantity to Apple dealers, computer superstores, campus resellers and K-12 institutions across the United States and are expected to be available nationwide by the Labor Day weekend.
Introduced in Boston on Aug. 2, 1993, the Newton MessagePad is the first in a family of personal digital assistant (PDA) devices from Apple that allows people to communicate ideas with greater speed, clarity and effectiveness. The communications capabilities of the MessagePad — faxing, wireless messaging, electronic mail, beaming and printing — allow users to send, receive and share information through telephone lines, wireless networks and computer networks.
"The MessagePad is the fastest-selling new product Apple has ever offered," said Ted Briscoe, general manager of PIE Sales, Apple USA. "Our resellers in the Northeast have been inundated with orders for the MessagePad. We have ramped up our manufacturing and are excited about extending shipments to all areas of the U.S." Nationwide availability of MessagePads is the third phase of Apple's distribution strategy for the new product. MessagePads were sold first on the trade show floor at Macworld Boston and then by resellers in the New York and Boston areas.
Customers can expect to purchase the Newton MessagePad from U.S. $699 to $949, depending on configuration.
Apple Assurance for Newton Announced
Apple also announced Apple Assurance for the Newton product family which provides U.S. customers with a competitive service program at a minimum cost. Newton products and accessories will carry Apple's standard one-year limited warranty on parts and labor along with mail-in service. Built-in up-and-running support is also provided for as long as the customer owns their product. Up-and-running support includes set-up and installation, Newton operating system support, and assistance with configuration, compatibility and troubleshooting. All service and support will be provided through the Apple Assistance Center at 800-SOS-APPL during the hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.
NOTE: Apple and the Apple Logo are registered trademarks of Apple Computer Inc. Newton and MessagePad are trademarks of Apple Computer Inc.
CONTACT:
Eric Wee of Apple Computer, 408-862-7797