Psion Organiser II
For today’s “Zscaler Logo on a Weird, Old or Obsolete Device” entry, I’m excited to present to you one of the most groundbreaking electronic devices of the 20th century: the Psion Organiser II!
Psion began in London, England as a software company, developing apps and games for the popular Sinclair ZX81 and Spectrum personal computers. While their software business was quite successful, they decided on a more ambitious plan of action: they wanted to develop the world’s first truly practical pocket computer.
The Psion Organiser I launched in 1984. Although its LCD screen and 6x6 rubber keypad made it look somewhat like a chunky calculator, it was in fact a full-fledged computer, capable of running various applications, and offering a built-in programming language.
Two years later, Psion introduced the Psion Organiser II - the model seen here. The Organiser II improved upon the original model in nearly every way, including a larger display, better keypad, more built-in memory, accessory slot, and a variety of new built-in apps, including database, diary, alarm clock, and more. It also *totally* looks like it could have been a prop from a mid-1980’s Star Trek movie, which makes it even more lovable!
The Psion Organiser II’s futuristic and rather rugged design supported a huge range of use-cases. In addition to being a popular productivity tool for busy professionals, the Organiser II was used in retail settings, industrial environments, and even became the first widely-deployed mobile electronic device employed by the government of the UK.
The Organiser product line continued with a variety of new enhanced models through 1989. Psion continued innovating with more refined PDA’s, and also played a critical role in the development of the Symbian operating system.
Although Psion eventually faded away in the early 2000’s, they left an incredible legacy - every mobile phone and handheld computer today can trace its spiritual lineage back to the Psion Organiser. That’s it for today - I hope you all have a happy Friday and a fantastic weekend!
