The Clicks Communicator: Your Phone’s New Blackberry Experience

Ever wish your phone could just be a phone? Well, you’re in luck! Clicks, the creators of the QWERTY keyboard case for iPhones, have introduced the Clicks Communicator. This device is designed to be a companion to your smartphone, allowing you to stay connected without the usual distractions. It features a full QWERTY keyboard and its own cellular connection, meaning you can leave your main phone at home. However, this convenience comes with a price tag of $499.

Let’s put aside the fact that the Communicator costs about the same as a Pixel 9A and dive into its impressive features. It boasts interchangeable back plates for a customizable look, a built-in headphone jack, a physical mute switch, and expandable storage via microSD — all the features that mainstream phone manufacturers have phased out over the years. The keyboard keys are larger than those on the Clicks phone case, and the entire keyboard is touch-sensitive, allowing it to function as a trackpad.

The Communicator operates as a standalone device, equipped with its own 5G data connection and running Android 16, so you can download any app you desire. However, the idea is to keep it focused on your essential apps, providing a break from your main phone. It integrates seamlessly into the Android ecosystem, enabling you to download Google Messages for syncing with your primary device. Clicks isn’t attempting any workarounds to bring iMessage to the Communicator.

In line with its purpose as a secondary, less-distracting device, the Communicator features a minimalist launcher designed by Niagara, which organizes apps into a simple list instead of a cluttered grid. There’s a side key with an LED indicator that can be customized to light up in different colors for specific contacts or app notifications. Pressing this side key can also trigger a custom shortcut.

The device sports a 4.03-inch OLED screen, front and rear cameras, and a robust 4,000mAh silicon carbon battery for extended use. Along with the vibrant rear panels, the Communicator will be available in three colors: a greenish clover, off-white smoke, and a deep onyx. If you’re intrigued but find the price a bit high, Clicks is offering a promotion where you can reserve one for $199, reducing the total cost to $399.