Clicks Technology unveils its BlackBerry-inspired smartphone

Clicks Technology is preparing to launch its new smartphone, the Clicks Communicator, which is designed for people who do a lot of work on their devices, such as texting and emailing. Priced at $499, the device is scheduled to begin shipping in the fourth quarter of this year. The startup is currently showcasing its pre-production hardware and internal software in a newly released video, offering a preview of what is to come when the phone begins shipping.

The device features a physical keyboard below its viewing screen, designed to appeal to users who miss the tactile feel of a BlackBerry keyboard. To run applications, Clicks Technology partnered with Niagara Launcher, an Android software interface, to provide access to Android apps.

The Clicks Communicator includes several distinct hardware specifications:

• Expandable microSD storage of up to 2TB
• A 3.5 mm headphone jack
• A physical SIM card tray, in addition to an eSIM
• Customizable back covers that can be popped off and swapped
• A tactile switch for turning airplane mode on or off
• A customizable “Signal Light” notification button on the side of the phone

The customizable Signal Light feature offers a light-up button that can be configured with different colors and light patterns. This allows users to see when they have received messages from specific people, groups, or applications without needing to turn on the main screen.

The Clicks Communicator was first introduced at January’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The device may appeal to a growing number of users looking to distance themselves from modern-day smartphones and their associated distractions, such as addictive social apps and games. By utilizing the Signal Light, users can choose to ignore their phones unless a critical notification is displayed.

During the initial introduction at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, early hands-on testing of a prototype—which matched the size and weight of the final shipping version—indicated that the device felt good to hold, was easy to grip, and was neither too light nor too heavy. The physical keys provided a clicky, BlackBerry-like feel, though the development team was planning to slightly adjust the key pressure to make the device work better for fast typers.

Why it matters

The Clicks Communicator represents a niche hardware play targeting professionals who prioritize physical keyboards and reduced digital distraction over the standard modern smartphone experience.