Clicks debuts its own take on the BlackBerry smartphone, plus a $79 snap-on mobile keyboard

Clicks Technology, a company recognized for its physical keyboards designed for smartphones, is set to launch an exciting lineup of products as the Consumer Electronics Show approaches in Las Vegas. Among the highlights are a new slide-out keyboard priced at $79 and the Communicator, Clicks' inaugural smartphone, featuring a physical keyboard for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. The Communicator, retailing at $499, is crafted specifically for individuals who juggle two phones—one dedicated to work and the other for personal use. This device is tailored for users who engage in extensive communication and document management, where the advantages of a physical keyboard become apparent. Uniquely, the Communicator eschews popular social media applications and games, focusing instead on productivity. It has partnered with Niagara Launcher, an Android launcher developer, to streamline access to crucial messaging and productivity apps such as Gmail, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Slack. A standout feature of the Communicator is its Signal Light, a customizable button on the side that lights up in different colors and patterns to notify users of incoming messages from specific contacts or applications. For example, users can program this feature to display messages from important contacts in purple and WhatsApp notifications in green. The device also includes a Prompt Key, enabling users to dictate messages or record quick voice notes effortlessly. While the company hints at future AI integrations for the Prompt Key, such features are not yet available. Like Clicks’ existing products, the Communicator boasts an ergonomic tactile keyboard designed for swift typing, with touch-sensitive capabilities that allow users to scroll through content without relying on the touchscreen. In keeping with classic smartphone features, the device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a physical SIM card tray alongside eSIM functionality, expandable microSD storage (up to 2TB), and a tactile switch for airplane mode. This switch can also be linked to the Signal Light or keyboard functions. The back cover is interchangeable, allowing users to customize the phone's appearance, with color options including Smoke, Clover (dark green), and Onyx. Early customers can secure the Communicator at a promotional price of $399 by placing a $199 deposit before February 27, and those who pay the full price will receive additional back covers. Shipments are anticipated later this year. In addition to the smartphone, Clicks Technology is also introducing a slide-out keyboard that can be used with smartphones, tablets, and even smart TVs, enhancing the typing experience across devices. This keyboard, powered by a 2,150 mAh battery, connects via MagSafe or Qi2 magnetic technology and features various slider positions for compatibility with different phone sizes. It will retail for $79 during the early-bird period and $109 thereafter, with pre-orders starting January 2 and expected shipping in the spring. Clicks CEO Adrian Li expressed confidence in the demand for specialized communication tools, citing the successful shipment of over 100,000 keyboards to customers across more than 100 countries. "The Clicks Communicator is a natural evolution of our commitment to helping people communicate effectively and take action," he stated.