Here’s how they recreated Apple’s Newton MessagePad in the ‘For All Mankind’ series

The Newton MessagePad is a precursor to the iPhone or iPad, with a touchscreen and handwriting recognition, was a digital diary ahead of its time. And precisely because of its futuristic concept, the producers of the series thought it would be a good idea. integrate the old Apple device and give it a leading role in the series.

El Apple Newton has a cameo in For All Mankind

However, they decided to make a number of important changes. For example, they gave ability to make video calls thanks to a high-end accessory with a camera, something that was not possible at the time. In addition, it also incorporates into the series a color screensomething the original Newton MessagePad didn’t have either.

This is how they designed the new Newton MessagePad in ‘For All Mankind’

Ben McGinnis, one of For All Mankind’s producers, shared on Twitter how they shot the scenes using the Newton MessagePad for video calls. The team created a special case based on the Newton that fits an iPhone 12 Pro Max.

They also invented a fake prop which is basically an external webcam that can be connected to the Newton MessagePad. Some scenes show the classic Newton interface, but those with video calls were made on an iPhone.

Technology moves faster in 1990s alternate history @forallmankind_! All of us @Apple nerds had so much fun creating (and playing with) our detachable camera and modified Newton video calls! Accessories can even hold an #iPhone 12 Pro Max inside. The show’s #Newton POV angles were #shotoniphone #Apple