Apple Newton MessagePad 120

Apple Newton MessagePad 120 was introduced in October 1994. It expanded storage and later introduced Newton OS 2.0 while retaining the successful MessagePad 110 enclosure. It combined ARM 610 at 20 MHz with 1MB or 2MB RAM depending on revision.

OS 2.0 substantially improved handwriting recognition, data handling and overall usability.

Notable Features

• It expanded storage and later introduced Newton OS 2.
• Its ARM 610 at 20 MHz and 1MB or 2MB RAM depending on revision configuration defined this model within Apple's changing product range.
• OS 2.

Historical Significance

• OS 2.0 substantially improved handwriting recognition, data handling and overall usability.
• The model records a distinct hardware, enclosure or market stage rather than a storage-only configuration.

Collector’s Notes

• Processor speed, display type, regional branding and original model label should be checked when identifying a surviving system.
• Original power supplies, keyboards, media and expansion accessories add useful historical context.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Apple Newton MessagePad 120
Manufacturer	Apple
Launched	Saturday, October 1, 1994
Country	United States
CPU	ARM 610 at 20 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	Newton OS 1.3 or 2.0
I/O	Serial, infrared and two PC Card slots
Keyboard	Pen input with on-screen keyboard
Storage	Internal flash storage and two PC Card slots
Sound	Piezoelectric system audio
Graphics	320 x 240 pen-driven monochrome graphics
Display	Built-in 320 x 240 monochrome LCD
ROM	4MB or 8MB Newton ROM
RAM	1MB or 2MB RAM depending on revision
CPU Speed	20 MHz