Clicks is returning to CES 2026 with a strong dose of nostalgia, unveiling its first-ever smartphone alongside a brand-new physical keyboard accessory. Known for its tactile keyboard products, the company is now expanding into smartphones with a device designed for communication rather than content consumption.
Clicks Communicator: A Phone Built for Messaging
The newly announced Clicks Communicator is positioned as a secondary smartphone, intended primarily for calls, texts, and messaging apps. Clicks says the device is meant to reduce screen addiction by encouraging users to leave content creation and social media scrolling to their primary phones.
The phone features:
- Tactile physical keyboard
- 4-inch OLED display
- Android 16-based interface
- Hardware-level encryption
Despite its compact size, the Communicator supports modern security and usability standards.
Modern Features With a Retro Design
While the Communicator resembles classic BlackBerry and Palm-era devices, it comes packed with modern hardware. It includes:
- 50MP rear camera
- 24MP front-facing camera
- Fingerprint sensor built into the spacebar
- Signal LED, a customizable notification light for specific apps or contacts
The device also offers expandable storage up to 2TB via microSD, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and full connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and Google Pay support.
Battery, Charging, and Connectivity
The Clicks Communicator houses a 4,000 mAh battery, which can be charged via:
- USB-C
- Wireless charging
This makes it competitive with many mainstream smartphones despite its smaller form factor.
Minimalist Phone Trend Gains Momentum
Although Clicks markets the Communicator as a secondary device, it fits neatly into the growing trend of minimalist or “dumb” phones, as users seek relief from constant notifications and social media overload.
However, the concept of carrying two phones remains questionable for some users, as it could require two phone plans and phone numbers, potentially limiting mass adoption. Still, for digital minimalists, the Communicator could even function as a primary phone.
The device is currently available for reservation at $399, with the price set to increase to $499 on February 27.
Clicks Power Keyboard: Turning Smartphones Into Sidekicks
Alongside the Communicator, Clicks also introduced the Power Keyboard, a physical keyboard accessory designed for standard smartphones.
Key features include:
- QWERTY layout with number row
- Directional navigation keys
- MagSafe and Qi2 attachment
- 2,150 mAh built-in battery
The keyboard allows phones to be used in both horizontal and vertical orientations, evoking the look and feel of the iconic T-Mobile Sidekick while also boosting battery life.
With the launch of the Clicks Communicator and Power Keyboard, Clicks is betting on a renewed interest in tactile input, intentional usage, and reduced digital noise. Whether users embrace the idea of a communication-first smartphone or simply want a physical keyboard for their existing device, Clicks’ CES 2026 lineup offers a compelling alternative to today’s touchscreen-dominated market.
