Clicks Communicator First Look: Could This Be BlackBerry's True Successor?
The longing for a physical keyboard on smartphones is clearly alive and well. Clicks Technology is tapping into that nostalgia – and a genuine need for efficient mobile typing – with the Communicator, a new Android-based phone priced at $499. But it doesn't stop there. Clicks is also offering a $79 slide-out physical keyboard compatible with virtually any device. This isn't just a phone; it's a statement about productivity and a return to tactile satisfaction in a world dominated by glass. At the recent GearTech show, we got an exclusive hands-on look at a handmade prototype and explored whether the Communicator can truly fill the void left by BlackBerry.
A BlackBerry-Inspired Design for the Modern Mobile User
The Clicks Communicator is immediately recognizable for its BlackBerry-esque keyboard and messaging-focused interface. However, it’s far from a simple imitation. Under the hood, the Communicator runs Android 16, granting access to the vast ecosystem of Android apps. Clicks has partnered with Niagara Launcher, a minimalist launcher designed to prioritize your favorite apps on the homescreen, keeping the experience streamlined and efficient. Less frequently used apps are easily accessible through a scrollable list, ensuring a clutter-free experience.
Jeff Gadway, Clicks’ chief marketing officer and co-founder, shared with GearTech that initial reception has exceeded expectations. While specific sales figures remain confidential, Gadway revealed the company was processing a sale approximately every 6.5 seconds for both the Communicator phone and the universal keyboard in the week following the announcement. This indicates a strong and immediate demand for this type of device.
First Impressions: Form and Feel
The prototype we tested, while not a fully functional phone, accurately reflects the size and weight of the final shipping product. This allowed for a realistic assessment of the device’s ergonomics. The Communicator feels solid and well-balanced in the hand – not overly heavy, but substantial enough to provide a premium feel.
The final design is the result of extensive prototyping, with dozens of 3D-printed iterations. The chosen design features a contoured back for a secure grip and an elevated screen. A curved chin protects the keys when the phone is placed face down – a thoughtful detail for those seeking distraction-free focus.
Key Features and Specifications
The Communicator isn’t just about the keyboard; it’s packed with modern features and specifications.
- Display: 4.03-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 1,200.
- Processor: MediaTek 4-nanometer, 5G IoT processor.
- RAM: 8GB.
- Storage: 256GB onboard storage, expandable up to 2TB via microSD.
- Battery: 4000mAh silicon-carbon battery.
- Cameras: 24MP front camera (fixed-focus, hole-punch), 50MP rear camera (with optical and electronic image stabilization).
- Charging: Up to 18W wired charging, up to 15W wireless charging (Qi compatible).
- Security: Android Strongbox-ready.
- Software: Android 16 with Niagara Launcher, 5 years of security and Android updates through Android 20.
- Weight: Approximately 170 grams (6 oz).
The Signal Light: Prioritizing Notifications
A unique feature of the Communicator is the “Signal Light,” a customizable light-up side button. This allows users to assign different colors or patterns to notifications from specific contacts, groups, or apps. Imagine knowing instantly if a message is from your boss or your children, while filtering out less urgent alerts. This feature directly addresses the issue of notification overload and helps users stay focused on what matters most.
Keyboard Tactility: Finding the Sweet Spot
The physical keyboard is, of course, the star of the show. Clicks is meticulously refining the key feel, currently debating between 110 grams and 130 grams of pressure. Early feedback suggests users who type quickly prefer the heavier 120-130 gram range for more tactile feedback. A softer keypress (around 110 grams) may be more accessible for those unfamiliar with physical keyboards.
“This is the stuff that Michael Fisher and myself and Kevin Michaluk fight over all the time,” Gadway admitted, highlighting the team’s dedication to perfecting the typing experience. The keys are positioned at the same vertical height as the touchscreen, allowing for seamless transitions between typing and swiping.
The Universal Keyboard: Bringing Tactility to Any Device
The $79 slide-out keyboard isn’t limited to the Communicator. It’s designed to connect to any device via Bluetooth, instantly adding a physical keyboard to your smartphone, tablet, or even laptop. This offers a versatile solution for users who crave a tactile typing experience across all their devices. The universal keyboard is a compelling option for those who aren't ready to commit to a new phone but want to experience the benefits of physical keys.
Security and Software Support
Clicks is prioritizing security and long-term software support. The Communicator is Android Strongbox-ready, providing a hardware-backed security layer for sensitive data. Furthermore, Clicks is committing to five years of both security and Android updates, ensuring the device remains protected and up-to-date through Android 20. This level of support is crucial for users who value data privacy and longevity.
The Future of the Communicator
The Clicks Communicator is expected to ship in the second half of 2026. While the wait may seem long, it allows Clicks to finalize the design, optimize the software, and ensure a polished user experience. The initial response has been overwhelmingly positive, suggesting a strong market for a smartphone that prioritizes productivity, security, and the satisfying feel of a physical keyboard.
The Communicator isn’t just a phone; it’s a potential revival of a forgotten form factor, reimagined for the modern mobile landscape. Whether it will truly become BlackBerry’s successor remains to be seen, but Clicks Technology is certainly making a compelling case.