Clicks Technology announced the Clicks Communicator on January 2, 2026, at CES 2026 a compact Android smartphone with a physical QWERTY keyboard designed as a “second phone” for communication, not consumption. The device runs Android 16 out of the box, supports 5G connectivity, and is available for reservation at $199 USD with shipments starting later this year. The Communicator targets users who miss tactile keyboards and want a distraction-free messaging experience without endless scrolling.
What’s New
The Clicks Communicator is a standalone 5G smartphone with a BlackBerry-inspired form factor, featuring a full physical keyboard below a 4.03-inch AMOLED display (1080×1200 resolution). It ships with Android 16 and includes 5 years of security updates plus 2 years of OS updates. The device packs a MediaTek 4nm chipset, 256GB of storage with microSD expansion up to 2TB, and a 4,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery with Qi2 wireless charging.
Hardware highlights include a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization, a 24MP front camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC for Google Pay, and support for nano-SIM or eSIM. A dedicated “Prompt Key” on the side doubles as a “Signal Light” that glows in custom colors to notify you of messages from specific apps or group chats. The phone also features a physical mute switch and ships unlocked with global 5G band support.
Why It Matters
The Communicator challenges the “bigger is better” smartphone trend by offering a purpose-built device for people overwhelmed by digital distractions. Clicks has already sold over 100,000 keyboard cases across 100+ countries since launching at CES 2024, proving demand for tactile typing experiences. This standalone phone extends that concept into a full Android device that prioritizes messaging apps over social media feeds.
By using a custom interface built on Niagara Launcher, the Communicator consolidates messages and emails from multiple apps into one unified view. This makes it ideal as a secondary device paired with a flagship iPhone, Galaxy, or Pixel for times when you need to stay connected without the temptation to doomscroll.
Specs at a Glance
Display & Build
- 4.03″ AMOLED (1080×1200 resolution)
- Physical QWERTY keyboard with backlight
- Interchangeable rear covers (Smoke, Clover, Onyx colors)
Performance & Storage
- MediaTek 4nm chipset
- 256GB internal + microSD up to 2TB
- Android 16 (2 years OS updates, 5 years security)
Cameras & Battery
- 50MP rear (OIS) + 24MP front
- 4,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery
- USB-C + Qi2 wireless charging
Connectivity
- 5G/4G LTE/3G/2G (unlocked, global bands)
- Nano-SIM + eSIM support
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC
- 3.5mm headphone jack
What’s Next
Reservations opened January 2, 2026, with two options: a $199 deposit (applied to the $399 final price) or a $399 full upfront payment for early-bird pricing. Clicks plans to ship orders later in 2026, with priority fulfillment for early customers. The company will contact reservation holders closer to production to finalize color and cover selections.
Clicks has not yet confirmed carrier certifications but will evaluate partnerships as availability approaches. The company currently ships to over 40 countries across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. The Prompt Key’s AI features remain unspecified, with Clicks teasing future applications for voice recording and message composition.
Featured Snippet Boxes
What is the Clicks Communicator?
The Clicks Communicator is a compact Android 16 smartphone with a physical QWERTY keyboard, designed as a distraction-free device for messaging and communication. It features a 4-inch AMOLED display, 5G connectivity, and can function as a standalone phone or secondary device.
When does the Clicks Communicator release?
The Clicks Communicator is scheduled to ship later in 2026, with reservations opening January 2, 2026. Early reservation holders will receive priority fulfillment, and Clicks will confirm shipping timelines as manufacturing progresses.
How much does the Clicks Communicator cost?
The Communicator is priced at $399 USD, with a reservation program offering two options: a $199 deposit (credited toward the $399 final price) or a $399 full upfront payment. Reservations can be canceled anytime before conversion to an order for a full refund.
Does the Clicks Communicator support 5G?
Yes, the Clicks Communicator supports 5G NR, 4G LTE, 3G, and 2G across global bands. The device is sold unlocked and supports both nano-SIM and eSIM, making it compatible with most carriers worldwide.
