Clicks Technology has unveiled a new hands-on video showcasing the Clicks Communicator, a smartphone designed for power users who crave the tactile experience of a physical keyboard. The startup, which first introduced the device at CES in Las Vegas this past January, is positioning the $499 handset as the ultimate tool for productivity-focused individuals who rely heavily on email and messaging.
Modern Design Meets Classic Utility
The Clicks Communicator aims to capture the nostalgia and efficiency of iconic BlackBerry devices. It features a dedicated screen for content consumption and correspondence, paired with a tactile, touch-sensitive keyboard located directly below. This hardware-first approach is explicitly targeted at professionals who find traditional touchscreens inferior for heavy typing tasks.
Innovative Features Beyond the Keyboard
While it draws inspiration from the past, the Communicator integrates several modern innovations. One standout is the “Signal Light,” a customizable button on the side of the chassis. Users can configure specific color patterns and light sequences to receive discrete notifications for important contacts, groups, or apps.
The device also prioritizes hardware flexibility. It features swappable back covers, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a physical SIM card slot alongside eSIM support, and expandable storage via microSD (supporting up to 2TB). Additionally, it includes a physical toggle switch for airplane mode, catering to users who want immediate, tactile control over their connectivity.
A Solution for Digital Minimalism
The Clicks Communicator is also positioned as an alternative for users seeking to reduce their reliance on addictive social media and gaming-heavy smartphones. By partnering with Niagara Launcher to provide access to Android applications, the device allows for a more intentional user experience. The Signal Light feature reinforces this, enabling users to ignore their devices until a truly critical notification appears.
Roadmap to Release
The recently released video provides a glimpse into the pre-production hardware and internal software, offering a preview of what consumers can expect when the device begins shipping in the fourth quarter of this year.
During earlier testing at CES, the prototype proved to be well-balanced in terms of size and weight, offering a solid grip. While the initial keyboard feedback was satisfyingly “clicky,” the development team has been refining the key pressure to better accommodate high-speed typists.
Clicks Technology plans to release further videos in the coming months, diving deeper into specific software features, including the Message Hub, the Prompt Key, and the full capabilities of the touch-sensitive keyboard.
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