Clicks Unveils the Communicator: A Novel Smartphone Designed for Communication
On January 2, Clicks marked a significant milestone by introducing its inaugural smartphone, the Clicks Communicator.
This device represents a transformative shift from solely creating keyboard cases to fully fledged devices. Boasting a QWERTY keyboard reminiscent of BlackBerry, the Communicator operates on Android 16 and features a 4.03-inch AMOLED display.
In tandem, the UK-based firm presented the Clicks Power Keyboard, an innovative magnetic accessory designed to enhance any MagSafe or Qi2-compatible smartphone with tactile input.
Both inventions cater to users inclined towards physical typing and diminished smartphone distractions.
The Communicator is equipped with Android 16 and offers 256GB of storage, expandable via microSD to an impressive 2TB. It features a rear camera with 50MP optical image stabilization, while a 24MP front camera enhances video calls.
Complemented by a robust 4,000mAh battery that supports Qi2 wireless charging, this device also revives the classic 3.5mm headphone jack.
Conceptualized as a secondary communication device rather than merely for streaming content, Chief Marketing Officer Jeff Gadway articulated its positioning, likening it to “a smartphone’s counterpart to what a Kindle is to an iPad.”
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The physical keyboard features touch-sensitive keys that facilitate gesture control, in addition to a fingerprint sensor embedded in the spacebar.
A customizable LED around the side button allows for color-coded notifications, providing users with an organized overview of messages from various applications and contacts.
Reservations for the Communicator are priced at $399, accompanied by a $30 shipping fee. This represents a considerable discount of $100 from the initial launch price of $499. The reservation period concludes on February 27, with units slated for shipping later this year, as confirmed by Clicks.
The Power Keyboard accessory magnetically adheres to smartphones, functioning not only as a Bluetooth keyboard but also as a 2,150mAh wireless power bank. It supports 5W charging and can connect via Bluetooth 5.4 to a multitude of devices, including tablets and smart TVs.
Pre-orders for the Power Keyboard are set at $79, increasing to $109 upon official launch. Shipping is expected to commence this spring, as per the company’s announcements.
The co-founder of Clicks, Kevin Michaluk, previously established CrackBerry and is a pivotal figure in the “Bring Back BlackBerry” campaign.
Encompassing industry veterans from BlackBerry’s marketing division, the leadership aims to position the Communicator as a modern homage to the legendary Canadian brand.
This launch arrives amidst a burgeoning demand for minimalist “dumb phones,” such as the Light Phone II and Punkt MP02.
Interestingly, younger demographics have exhibited a resurgence of nostalgia for physical keyboards on social media, despite not having active experience with BlackBerry devices in their prime.
The Communicator is powered by a 4nm MediaTek processor and supports 5G connectivity, although specifics regarding the chipset remain undisclosed. The device measures 12mm in thickness and weighs 170g, making it notably bulkier than contemporary smartphones, yet comparably designed to classic BlackBerry models.
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The customized Android interface is designed with Niagara Launcher, efficiently prioritizing messaging functionalities over traditional app grid layouts. Moreover, a physical kill switch is integrated, allowing users to instantly mute the microphone and speaker for enhanced privacy.
Clicks has garnered attention in the past for its keyboard cases, compatible with devices such as the iPhone, Google Pixel, and Motorola Razr. The introduction of the Power Keyboard signifies a paradigm shift from model-specific cases to universally applicable magnetic accessories.
Industry analysts observe that the $499 price point positions the Communicator in direct competition with mid-range smartphones, rather than basic feature phones. The device stands alongside the Unihertz Titan 2, another Android offering with a physical keyboard, specifically tailored for niche users.
Early adopters have the option to reserve the Communicator in an array of colors—green, white, or black—with interchangeable back covers available. The Power Keyboard is stated to be compatible with devices like the iPhone 17 and Pixel 10 Pro, as detailed in the product documentation.
Both innovations are set to debut ahead of CES 2026, where Clicks first unveiled its original keyboard case in 2024. This foray into standalone hardware signifies an adaptive response to the surging market demand for tactile alternatives to the pervasive touchscreen-only devices.
Source link: Technobezz.com.
