Rare Apple VideoPad 2 prototype to go up for auction

A unique prototype Apple VideoPad 2 device will go up for auction in November as part of Bonhams International Auction House's History of Science and Technology auction in Los Angeles. The VideoPad will be auctioned along with other Apple prototypes and Steve Jobs memorabilia and is estimated to sell for between $8,000 and $12,000.

Developed between 1993 and 1995 with the VideoPad 1 and 3 (the only two samples shown to the public), this only surviving prototype PDA was Apple's next attempt after the Newton Message Pad. Unlike the Newton Message Pad, this model's fold-out screen apparently included a built-in camera for video conferencing.

Despite being ahead of its time in design, it was discontinued along with the Newton OS after Jobs returned to the company in 1997. According to auction house Bonhams, this came after Jobs realized that the technology had not yet reached the level required for a positive user experience.

The device was based on concept sketches drawn by former CEO John Scully. The design never saw the light of day, but it was clearly a very early concept for the tablet. If you look closely, you can see definite parallels between VideoPad 2 and devices like the iPhone and iPad.

Source: bonhams