‘For All Mankind’ Team on Working With Apple to Bring Back the Newton
Apple TV’s “For All Mankind” has been captivating audiences with its unique take on history and technology. One key prop that has played a significant role in the show is the Apple Newton. The prop master, Jaime Mengual, starts each season with a meeting to discuss the use of this forgotten Apple product with the show’s creators and producers.
The Apple Newton was an early mobile device from Apple in the 1990s, featuring a stylus-controlled touchscreen for scheduling and organization. Despite being overshadowed by competitors like PalmPilots and BlackBerrys, the Newton is portrayed in “For All Mankind” as a revolutionary communication tool bridging Earth and Mars.
Unlike our modern smartphones, the Newton in the show serves a more practical communication purpose, without the distraction of social media. Characters rely on their Newtons for information and connectivity in a world where technology has a different trajectory.
Mengual’s attention to detail in recreating the Newton for the show is impressive. He sourced real Newtons from eBay, modified them with backlights and video capabilities, and even collaborated with the Apple team to design evolving features for the device each season. The show’s Newtons are a blend of retro design and advanced functionality, tailored for the characters’ needs in space.
In Season 4, the Newton’s design was inspired by the iPad Mini, while Season 5 saw a return to a smaller, iPhone-like form factor. Mengual’s efforts to create a custom model with AMOLED screens faced challenges, leading to the integration of real iPhones in Newton casings. The rugged and practical design of the Newtons reflects the harsh environments of Mars and the moon in the show.
Considering the lack of a Genius Bar in space, durability is a key factor in the design of the Newtons. With technology needing to withstand the challenges of space travel, Mengual ensures that the props are built to last in the unforgiving conditions beyond Earth.
The use of the Apple Newton in “For All Mankind” adds a unique twist to the show’s alternate history narrative, showcasing the impact of technology in a world where space exploration takes center stage. As viewers are drawn into this compelling story, the Newton serves as a tangible link between the characters and their quest for discovery in the vast expanse of space.
