Clicks Co-Founder Reveals Vision for the Tiny 'Communicator' Phone

Clicks, known for its unapologetically retro gadgetry, is doubling down on tactile tech at CES 2026. After its initial keyboard case for iPhones and Android devices, the company unveiled two new products: a magnetic 'Power Keyboard' and the intriguing 'Clicks Communicator' phone. While a working Communicator prototype wasn't available for hands-on testing, Clicks co-founder and former BlackBerry marketing director Jeff Gadway shed light on the company's target audience and design philosophy.

Power Keyboard: A Modern Throwback

The $79 Power Keyboard improves on Clicks' original keyboard case. It magnetically attaches to any Qi2-compatible phone and connects via Bluetooth. A dedicated number row is a welcome addition. Its slider form factor evokes classic devices like the Palm Pre and BlackBerry Torch. When closed, it acts as a thick wireless battery pack, sliding up to reveal the keyboard.

It also serves as a power bank, though its battery capacity isn't massive. It can provide a power boost in a pinch. Users can configure it to prioritize powering the keyboard, potentially lasting for weeks on a single charge. The keyboard itself may take some getting used to, especially for those unfamiliar with physical smartphone keyboards. However, for keyboard enthusiasts, the Power Keyboard offers an intriguing blend of nostalgia and modern functionality.

The Clicks Communicator: More Than Just a Second Phone

The Clicks Communicator is a more ambitious endeavor. Gadway aims to cater to users who carry multiple devices. "You've got people who are mandated to carry a second device for corporate deploy. Then you've got people who are small business owners and want to have a separate phone for their small business," he explained. "In markets like Europe, there's a requirement for employers to give people the option to have a separate device and create more separation. You've got travelers who want a second SIM, and then you've got this growing cohort of digital detox, digital minimalism, digital well-being people."

Instead of simply duplicating smartphone functionality, the Communicator strives to be a complementary device. Gadway draws parallels to other tech ecosystems: "You wear an Oura Ring and you wear a smart watch; you carry an e-reader for reading and a tablet for content consumption. So why shouldn't your second phone be better at certain things than your first phone instead of just being a straight duplicate?"

The Communicator features a squarish, 4-inch touchscreen, a physical keyboard, and a customized Niagara Android launcher. This list-based UI prioritizes messaging apps. The touch-sensitive keyboard can be swiped for navigation. While users can install any Android app, the form factor emphasizes focused communication and information triage. Gadway acknowledges that some tasks, like watching TikTok videos, are better suited for other devices, but the Communicator aims to excel in specific use cases. The side button has an LED that users can customize for different notifications.

Clicks is betting that a niche audience will appreciate this focused design. At $399, the Communicator is priced similarly to a Pixel 9a. Whether it resonates with its target demographic remains to be seen when it launches in the second half of the year. Clicks doesn't need to sell millions; it's about offering an alternative for those who crave a different mobile experience. As someone who appreciates the focused utility of single-purpose devices, I find this direction refreshing in a market saturated with all-in-one solutions. The key will be delivering a truly optimized experience that justifies carrying a second device. The devil, as always, will be in the implementation and real-world usability.