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Startup Clicks Technology Announces Communicator Smartphone and Power Keyboard

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Clicks Technology, the company known for smartphone keyboard accessories, has unveiled two new hardware products ahead of CES in Las Vegas: its first-ever smartphone and a magnetic slide-out keyboard.

Over 100,000 of its earlier keyboards have been shipped across more than 100 countries.

The Clicks Communicator Smartphone

Purpose and Design

The Communicator is a smartphone built around a physical keyboard. The device is designed for users who need a physical keyboard for messaging, emailing, and document creation. It prioritizes communication and productivity apps like Gmail, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Slack, while minimizing social media and gaming integration. The company positions it as a secondary device for users who typically carry two phones.

Specifications

  • Operating System: Android 16, with 5 years of security updates (up to Android 20).
  • Processor: MediaTek 5G IoT processor (4-nanometer) with 8GB of RAM.
  • Storage: 256GB onboard, expandable via microSD up to 2TB.
  • Display: 4.03-inch AMOLED display (1,080 x 1,200 resolution).
  • Dimensions: 131.5 mm tall, weighing 170 grams.
  • Battery: 4,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery.
  • Charging: 18W wired, 15W wireless (Qi compatible).
  • Cameras: 50MP rear (OIS + EIS), 24MP fixed-focus front camera.
  • Connectivity: Global 5G, 4G LTE, 3G/2G, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, NFC (Google Pay).
  • Ports: 3.5 mm headphone jack, USB-C, physical SIM tray + eSIM.
  • Security: Android Strongbox-ready, physical fingerprint scanner.
  • Other: GPS, wireless charging.

Keyboard and Input Features

The device features a tactile, touch-sensitive physical keyboard. The keys are ergonomic, and scrolling is possible without touching the screen. The keyboard and touchscreen sit at the same vertical height.

Additional input features include:

  • Signal Light: A customizable button on the phone's side that lights up with different colors and patterns to indicate messages from specific contacts or apps.
  • Prompt Key: A button to dictate messages or record voice notes, with potential future AI integration.
  • Airplane Mode Switch: A physical toggle that can also be configured to interact with the Signal Light or keyboard input.

Customization

The back cover is removable and interchangeable. Available colors include Smoke, Clover (dark green), and Onyx.

Pricing and Availability

The Communicator will retail for $499. An early-bird price of $399 is available for customers who place a $199 deposit before February 27. Customers paying the full early-bird price upfront will receive two additional back covers. Shipping is expected in Q4 of this year (the second half of 2026).

Reception

According to co-founder and CMO Jeff Gadway, early reception has exceeded expectations, with a sale occurring every 6.5 seconds across both devices in the past week.

The Clicks Power Keyboard

The Clicks Power Keyboard is a slide-out physical keyboard accessory for smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs.

Features

  • Power Source: Built-in 2,150 mAh battery.
  • Attachment: Connects via MagSafe or Qi2 magnetic connections, compatible with existing cases.
  • Versatility: Multiple slider positions accommodate various phone sizes; works in portrait or landscape mode.
  • Independent Use: Functions on its own when paired with tablets, smart TVs, or AR/VR headsets.
  • Customization: Tactile buttons with settings adjustable via the Clicks mobile app (iOS and Android).

Pricing and Availability

The Power Keyboard is priced at $79 for early-bird customers (retail price $109). Preorders began January 2, with shipments expected in the spring.

Background

Clicks Technology announced both products prior to the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The Communicator smartphone was also featured in a separate CES roundup.