Clicks’ Communicator: Reviving the Physical Keyboard in Modern Smartphones
In an era dominated by touchscreen devices, Clicks Technology is making waves with its latest innovation—the Communicator, a smartphone that brings back the tactile satisfaction of a physical keyboard. Priced at $499, this device is designed for users who crave the efficiency and nostalgia of typing on actual keys.
Design and Build
The Communicator boasts a design reminiscent of classic BlackBerry devices, featuring a full QWERTY keyboard beneath a touchscreen display. During a hands-on session at CES, Clicks’ Chief Marketing Officer and co-founder, Jeff Gadway, showcased the prototype, emphasizing its ergonomic design and user-friendly interface.
The device measures 131.5 mm in height and weighs approximately 170 grams (6 ounces), striking a balance between portability and substantial feel. Its contoured back ensures a comfortable grip, while the slightly elevated screen and curved chin protect the keys when placed face down. Interchangeable back covers allow users to personalize the phone’s appearance, with colors like Smoke, Clover (dark green), and Onyx available.
Display and Interface
Equipped with a 4.03-inch AMOLED display at a resolution of 1,080 x 1,200 pixels, the Communicator delivers crisp visuals. Running on Android 16, it supports a wide range of applications. The device integrates the minimalist Niagara Launcher, presenting apps on the home screen in a scrollable list for easy access.
Keyboard and User Experience
The physical keyboard is the standout feature, designed for efficient typing. The keys are touch-sensitive, enabling users to scroll through messages and web pages without relying on the touchscreen. Feedback from early testers has led to adjustments in key resistance, aiming for an optimal balance between tactile response and ease of use.
Unique Features
A notable addition is the Signal Light, a customizable side button that illuminates in different colors or patterns based on notifications from specific contacts or apps. This feature allows users to prioritize responses without constantly checking the screen.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the Communicator is powered by a 4-nanometer MediaTek 5G IoT processor, coupled with 8 GB of RAM. It offers 256 GB of onboard storage, expandable via microSD up to 2 TB. The 4,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery supports wired charging up to 18 watts and wireless charging up to 15 watts, with Qi compatibility.
Camera Capabilities
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 50-megapixel main camera with optical and electronic image stabilization, ensuring sharp images and steady videos. The front-facing camera captures 24-megapixel photos, suitable for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Connectivity and Security
The device supports global 5G, 4G LTE, and 3G/2G networks, ensuring connectivity across various regions. Additional features include NFC with Google Pay, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, and a USB-C port. Security-conscious users will benefit from Android Strongbox readiness and a commitment to five years of security updates, extending through Android 20.
Market Reception and Availability
Since its announcement, the Communicator has garnered significant interest. While specific sales figures remain undisclosed, Gadway noted that the company has been making a sale every 6.5 seconds between both devices over the past week. The device is expected to ship in the second half of 2026.
Conclusion
The Clicks Communicator represents a fusion of nostalgic design and modern technology, catering to users who value the tactile experience of a physical keyboard without sacrificing contemporary smartphone capabilities. As it prepares to enter the market, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of physical keyboards in the digital age.
