BlackBerry-Style Phones Are Back: Clicks Launches Smartphone With A Keyboard

Clicks Enters the Smartphone Race with Communicator

Clicks Technology has officially stepped into the smartphone market. The company has unveiled the Clicks Communicator, its first phone, ahead of CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Known for its physical keyboards, Clicks is now offering a device that looks familiar to longtime BlackBerry users.

The Communicator is designed as a second phone. Clicks is targeting professionals who write, message, and email throughout the day. The focus stays firmly on communication and productivity.

A smartphone built to reduce distractions

The Clicks Communicator runs Android 16. However, it avoids the usual smartphone overload. The device does not support social media apps or mobile games. Instead, it uses Niagara Launcher to keep things minimal.

Users get access to tools like Gmail, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Slack. The idea is simple. Keep the screen useful, not addictive. This approach positions Clicks as a productivity-first brand rather than a mainstream smartphone player.

Physical keyboard makes a comeback

The biggest highlight is the physical keyboard. Clicks uses tactile, ergonomic keys built for fast and accurate typing. The keyboard also supports touch gestures. Users can scroll through messages, pages, and lists without touching the display.

This design brings back muscle memory typing. It also reduces screen dependency during long conversations or work sessions.

Signal Light adds smart alerts

Clicks introduces a unique feature called the Signal Light. This customizable light button sits on the side of the phone. It lights up in different colors based on who or what is messaging you.

Messages from VIP contacts can glow in one color. Group chats can glow in another. The button also doubles as a Prompt Key. Users can press it to dictate messages or record voice notes. Clicks has hinted at future AI features, but none are active yet.

Old-school hardware meets modern Android

The Communicator includes features many phones have dropped. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack, a physical SIM slot, eSIM support, and expandable storage up to 2TB. Users also get a tactile switch for airplane mode.

The back panel is removable. Clicks allows users to swap covers to change the phone’s look. The phone launches in Smoke, Clover, and Onyx colors.

Price, availability, and specs

The Clicks Communicator is priced at $499. Early-bird buyers can get it for $399 by placing a deposit before February 27. Shipping is expected later this year.

Key specs include a 4,000mAh battery, 50MP rear camera with OIS, wireless charging, NFC, Wi-Fi 6, and global 5G support.

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