A CLEAR PLASTIC PROTOTYPE APPLE MACINTOSH PORTABLE. Clear Plastic Prototype Apple Macintosh Portable. Apple Computer, Inc.: Cupertino, CA, ca. 1989. 360 x 390 x 100 mm (14 x 15 1/4 x 4 in) (with screen closed). AMLCD screen, built-in trackball mouse, 1 MB memory, 40 MB storage, labelled 'HDVT1 32' to front and side, with original Macintosh Portable Power Adapter. Housed in original black Apple Macintosh Portable carrying case. CLEAR PLASTIC PROTOTYPE OF APPLE'S FIRST BATTERY-POWERED, PORTABLE COMPUTER. The Macintosh Portable was released in 1989 with the goal of creating a personal computer that could easily be carried around. To accomplish this, Apple introduced their very first battery-powered portable computer, which featured a fold up screen that allowed it to be stored more compactly in its carrying case. Despite its ingenuity and sleek design, the Macintosh Portable was a commercial failure. In an attempt to make a desktop power machine into a portable device, Apple launched a product that was too expensive and heavy for mass adoption. At 16 pounds, the device earned the nickname 'Macintosh Luggable' since carrying one around was onerous rather than convenient. Despite releasing an upgraded model and several price reductions, sales for the Portable never took off, and it was discontinued in 1991 with the launch of the PowerBook and PowerBook Duo (see lot 9). Clear plastic prototype models were used by Apple during engineering and hardware tests of many of their projects. The clear casings allowed developers to examine the internal parts while the device was operating and without the need for disassembly. These clear plastic prototypes are quite desirable to Apple and computer collectors for the aesthetic value as well as their rarity. NOTICE TO BIDDERS This lot is being offered as an antique and collectible only. Electronic or mechanical items or parts, and any software or hardware, are being sold for their artistic, historical or cultural interest, and may not operate or comply with current requirements or technical standards. This means, among other things, that the lot may no longer be operational or fit for its original purpose. Bonhams and the consignor expressly disclaim all warranties, whether express or implied, including but not limited to any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or the continuous, uninterrupted, error-free, virus-free, or secure access to or operation of the software or hardware comprising the lot, and the accuracy or completeness of any content or data included with or accessed by using the software or hardware. There are no express or implied warranties that the copying, disclosure, publication, use, commercial use, or sale of the content or data included with or accessed by using the lot, will not violate or infringe any patent, copyright, trademark or other proprietary, personal or consumer rights. Please refer to the Conditions of Sale and in particular the section entitled 'Limitation of Liability' and the disclaimers of warranties therein. Except as may be expressly provided otherwise, all property is offered and sold 'AS IS.' The foregoing is in addition to and does not limit the terms set forth in the Conditions of Sale with respect to this lot. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing