Clicks Unveils Its First Smartphone and a Modular Power Keyboard at CES 2026
Clicks Technology, the company that originally made waves by adding physical keyboards to the iPhone, is expanding its horizons at CES 2026. The startup has officially unveiled its first standalone handset, dubbed the Clicks Communicator, alongside a versatile new peripheral called the Power Keyboard.
The Clicks Communicator: Built for Messaging
Departing from the modern trend of massive screens designed for media consumption, the Clicks Communicator is a compact device built for “communication, not consumption.” Designed primarily as a secondary device for heavy messagers, it features a full tactile QWERTY keyboard and a 4-inch OLED display.
Despite its minimalist “messaging-first” philosophy, the Communicator doesn’t skimp on modern internals:
- Display & Storage: A 4-inch OLED screen paired with microSD expansion supporting up to 2TB.
- Connectivity: Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC for Google Pay, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
- Cameras: A 50MP main sensor and a 24MP front-facing camera.
- Battery & Security: A 4,000 mAh battery with USB-C and wireless charging support. Security is handled via hardware-level encryption and a fingerprint sensor cleverly embedded in the spacebar.
- OS: It runs on a customized version of Android 16.
One unique design touch is the Signal LED, a customizable notification light that users can program to flash specific colors for certain apps or contacts, allowing for a glanceable, distraction-free experience.
The Power Keyboard: A “Sidekick” Style Peripheral
For those not ready to carry a second phone, Clicks introduced the Power Keyboard. This Bluetooth accessory attaches to existing iOS or Android smartphones via MagSafe or Qi2.
Reminiscent of the classic T-Mobile Sidekick, the Power Keyboard allows the phone to be flipped into horizontal or vertical orientations. It includes:
- A full QWERTY layout with a dedicated number row and directional keys.
- An integrated 2,150 mAh battery to extend the host phone’s life.
- Compatibility beyond smartphones, including tablets, smart TVs, and VR headsets.
Pricing and Availability
The Clicks Communicator is available for reservation now at an early-bird price of $399, which will increase to its standard $499 retail price on February 27.
The Power Keyboard is slated for a Spring 2026 launch. Pre-orders opened on January 2 with a special $80 early-bird price, eventually retailing for $110.
By positioning the Communicator as a secondary “messaging” tool, Clicks is tapping into the growing “minimalist phone” movement while providing a nostalgic, tactile experience for power users who miss the era of BlackBerry and Palm.
