Created in 1988, the portable AP Leafax 35 allowed field photographers to scan film offsite in about 15 minutes and send the image over phone lines in approximately 8 minutes for breaking news. Color images could be sent in 30 minutes. One of the first of its kind, this particular machine was used by the Flint Journal, largely for Detroit Pistons games and other sporting events.
Interested in the evolution of digital photography transfers? Visit TIME Magazine's article, "Celebrating 80 Years of Associated Press’ Wirephoto".