Apple Computer, Inc., today announced it is shipping the MessagePad 2000, a mobile computer for the business professional and one of the fastest handheld Internet computers on the market.

The MessagePad 2000 offers the versatility of a laptop- including email, fax, and Internet access capability, as well as personal productivity software--at a fraction of a laptop's weight: 1.4 pounds. Incorporating the 160 MHz StrongARM processor, the MessagePad 2000 performs up to ten times faster than current handheld computers in the market today and works easily to exchange data with both Windows and Mac OS-based computers.

"A lot has been said about putting the functionality of a business computer into a handheld computer," said Jim Groff, senior vice president of the Information Appliance Division at Apple Computer, Inc. "In demonstrating the MessagePad 2000 over the past few months, we have showed a lot of people worldwide that it is achievable. The MessagePad 2000 has set a high standard for mobile computing--one that competitors will have a hard time matching."

Announced last October, the MessagePad 2000 has gained wide recognition as the first fully configured mobile business appliance. The MessagePad 2000 is now available in North America with English language versions scheduled to ship in Europe, Australia, and selected Asia-Pacific countries in April.

The estimated retail price of the MessagePad 2000 in the United States, including a word processor, email package, and web browser applications is approximately $949, with a spreadsheet $999 and $1099 for the configuration which also includes a keyboard and case. Retail prices may vary depending on channel, dealer, and country.

Large Software Library

The MessagePad 2000 incorporates a new version of the award winning Newton operating system enabling it to support additional functionality such as voice recording and a 16-level gray scale screen. The computer comes preconfigured with a web browser and e-mail client software (optional modem and Internet Service Provider required for Internet access), a word processor, spreadsheet (available in most configurations), and Newton address book, calendar, and notes applications. The computer can exchange data with many major Windows and Macintosh personal information management applications, including Microsoft Schedule+ 7.0, Lotus Organizer 2.1, and Claris Organizer 2.0 using Apple's Newton Connection Utilities (included). The computer's Auto Dock feature makes these data transfers easy. The MessagePad 2000 can also transfer data to and from Microsoft Excel or Word on both Windows and Mac OS-based systems.

Weeks of Run-time on a Single Charge

Four AA alkaline batteries or a rechargeable battery pack with one-hour recharge will power the device for up to six weeks of normal usage. The computer has two Type II PC Card slots that support many wired and wireless communication solutions already shipping for the Newton operating system, as well as expansion for applications and memory cards. An instant on feature lets you quickly begin working --there's no waiting for the device bootup.

The MessagePad 2000 comes standard with 5MB RAM and 8MB of ROM, Cirrus Voyager chip set, and a power efficient, backlit screen with 16-level gray scale. The entire width of a fax or web page can be scaled to be viewed and the screen can rotate 360 degrees which means that users can view and work on the screen, either horizontally, vertically or upside down, depending on their preference. A built-in microphone and speaker enables users to record and play back voice dictation. Options include a lightweight, touch-type keyboard (available as standard in some configurations), NiMh rechargeable battery pack, AC adapter, and additional flash memory cards. Built in software enables direct printing to serial, IrDA, and LocalTalk printers. The optional Print Pack allows printing to parallel printers.

Broad Support by Software Developers, Systems Integrators

The Newton-OS platform is supported by more than 250 solution providers and 300 systems integrators and value added resellers. Several major hardware developers, including Digital Ocean, Harris, and Schlumberger are building their own information appliances based on the Newton operating system. Third party vertical applications include health care patient record management, field service route delivery, and sales force automation.

The MessagePad 2000 is now available from selected authorized Apple dealers.

About Apple Computer

Apple Computer, Inc., a recognized innovator in the information industry and leader in multimedia technologies, creates powerful solutions based on easy-to-use personal computers, servers, peripherals, software, personal digital assistants and Internet content. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple develops, manufactures, licenses and markets solutions, products, technologies and services for business, education, consumer, entertainment, scientific and engineering and government customers in more than 140 countries.