Palm Computing Delivers Graffiti, Award-Winning Handwriting Recognition Software, for Apple’s Newton 2.0
LOS ALTOS, Calif. — October 30, 1995 — Palm Computing, Inc., a subsidiary of U.S. Robotics (NASDAQ:USRX), today announced Graffiti 2.0, a new and enhanced version of its award-winning recognition software for pen-based computing devices.
Graffiti 2.0 is designed specifically for use with Newton 2.0, Apple's new operating system for the Apple MessagePad and other devices based on Newton technology.
Over 20,000 MessagePad customers have purchased Graffiti since its introduction in November 1994. It has been highly acclaimed for delivering accuracy, speed and ease of use in entering text into handheld computers with a pen. For users, upgrading to Graffiti 2.0 will provide even greater gains in productivity and ease of use. Previous testing of Graffiti has shown that new users of the software can learn to use the Graffiti method, which is based on a simplified version of the existing alphabet, in under 20 minutes.
Enhancements in Graffiti 2.0 for Newton 2.0 include: Improved integration with Newton applications, allowing for easier and faster access to the writing window; an Easy Numbers feature that eliminates the need for using Number Lock; the smart shifting feature which automatically capitalizes words where common usage would dictate that a capital letter be used, and a smaller writing window that allows ample room for input while saving valuable space on the MessagePad screen, so that more of the application in use can be viewed. Palm also optimized Graffiti's recognition engine to increase performance by 50%.
Graffiti 2.0 will be available December 1 at a suggested retail price of $ 79. Customers may purchase it directly from Palm Computing, by calling 800/881-PALM, and wherever MessagePads are sold. Graffiti 2.0 requires Newton 2.0. Graffiti 1.0 is still available for users of the previous MessagePad versions for $ 59. Graffiti 1.0 users who upgrade to Newton 2.0 can upgrade to the latest Graffiti for $ 29.
Palm Computing is the leading independent provider of application software for consumer focused handheld computers. Headquartered in Los Altos, Calif., its products include personal information management applications, desktop to handheld computer connectivity software, PalmPrint handwriting recognizer and Graffiti power writing technology.
U.S. Robotics is one of the world's leading suppliers of products and systems that provide access to information. The company designs, manufacturers, markets and supports remote access servers, enterprise communications systems, desktop/mobile client products and modems that connect computers and other equipment over analog, digital and switched cellular networks, enabling users to gain access to, manage and share data, fax and voice information. Its customers include Internet service providers, regional Bell operating companies and a wide range of other large corporations, businesses, institutions and individuals. The company's 1994 sales were $ 499.0 million; sales for the first nine months of fiscal 1995 were $ 596.0 million.
Note to Editors: Palm Computing and Graffiti are registered trademarks of Palm Computing Inc. The Palm Logo, PalmPrint, and the Graffiti logo are trademarks of Palm Computing, Inc. Apple and Newton are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. MessagePad is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. U.S. Robotics is a registered trademark of U.S. Robotics, Inc. All other brands and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.
CONTACT:
Palm Computing
Ed Colligan, 415/949-9742
ed@palm.com
or
A&R Partners for Palm Computing
Morgan Littlefield, 415/363-0982, Ext. 23
morganlittlefield@arpartners.com