Siemens Delivers Newton NotePhone

Fulfilling its early pledge of support for the Newton platform, German electronics giant Siemens introduced its combination telephone, fax modem, and Newton MessagePad appliance at CeBIT ’94.

The device, known as the NotePhone, contains an ergonomic telephone and detachable data/fax modem on each side of the unit. A space in the middle enables users to insert their Newton MessagePad, forming a tightly integrated device capable of sending data at 2400 bps and faxes at 9600 bps.

While the NotePhone features an attractive European look, closer examination reveals a few minor oversights that appear odd in a German product. For example, it is nearly impossible to remove the PCMCIA card without detaching the Newton from the NotePhone, and the protective flaps over the serial and power ports must be sacrificed in order to attach the Newton to the device.