Clicks showcases its BlackBerry-inspired phone in a new hands-on video
Startup Clicks Technology released a video demonstrating its upcoming Clicks Communicator smartphone, targeting users who miss the physical QWERTY keyboard of BlackBerry devices. Priced at $499, the device features a customizable Signal Light, interchangeable back covers, a headphone jack, and expandable storage, with shipping expected in Q4 2026.
Clicks Technology, a startup preparing to launch its own take on the BlackBerry smartphone, has released a new video showcasing the device. The Clicks Communicator was first introduced at CES in Las Vegas in January, aimed at users who perform heavy texting and emailing on their phones. It is specifically designed to appeal to those who miss the BlackBerry's physical keyboard, which some argue is superior for productivity tasks.
Priced at $499, the Communicator resembles a modern BlackBerry with a screen for viewing messages and a tactile, touch-sensitive keyboard below. However, it goes beyond being a mere copy by offering innovations. The “Signal Light” feature is a customizable illuminated button on the side that uses different colors and patterns to indicate messages from specific contacts, groups, or apps. Other features include swappable back covers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a physical SIM tray (plus eSIM), expandable microSD storage up to 2TB, and a tactile switch for airplane mode.
The Communicator may also attract users looking to reduce smartphone distractions. The company partnered with Niagara Launcher to access Android apps. With the Signal Light, users can ignore the phone unless a critical notification arrives.
The new video shows pre-production hardware and software as a preview of what to expect when the phone begins shipping in Q4 2026. At CES, TechCrunch handled a prototype of the same size and weight as the final device, finding it comfortable to hold and easy to grip, with clicky keys reminiscent of BlackBerry. The team planned to slightly adjust key pressure for fast typists. Future videos will delve deeper into specific features like the Signal Light, Prompt Key, Message Hub, and touch-sensitive keyboard.
