Clicks Technology is leaning into nostalgia at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 with the launch of its first smartphone, the Clicks Communicator, alongside a versatile new Power Keyboard accessory. The trade show is scheduled for January 6-9, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.
Incorporated on April 20, 2023, Clicks was founded by Adrian Li Mow Ching, Jeff Gadway, Kevin Michaluk and Michael Fisher. The company is based in London, England, United Kingdom and it maintains a significant operational presence in Canada.
The Clicks Communicator: A Modern “Dumb” Phone
Marketed as a secondary device for “communication, not consumption,” the Communicator aims to capture the growing minimalist phone trend. Despite its retro BlackBerry-style aesthetic, it runs on Android 16 and features modern hardware:
- Display: 4-inch OLED.
- Storage: Expandable via microSD up to 2TB.
- Security: Hardware-level encryption and a fingerprint sensor embedded in the spacebar.
- Cameras: A 50MP rear sensor and 24MP front camera.
- Connectivity: 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC for Google Pay, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
- Battery: 4,000 mAh with USB-C and wireless charging support.
A standout feature is the Signal LED, a customizable notification light for specific contacts or apps. While Clicks pitches this as a secondary device, the $399 early-bird price ($499 after February 27, 2026) and the requirement for a separate cellular plan may challenge its “companion” status.
The Communicator is designed as a focused, secondary device to help users escape doomscrolling while maintaining high-quality messaging. Here are the things you can expect from the smartphone:
| Pros | Cons |
| Focused Design: Minimalist Android 16 interface discourages distractions while prioritizing core communication. | Cost Barrier: The $499 retail price ($399 early bird) is steep for a device marketed as “secondary.” |
| Tactile Experience: Features a high-quality physical QWERTY keyboard and a touch-sensitive surface for scrolling. | Logistical Hassle: Requires a second SIM card and phone plan, which may be impractical for most users. |
| Modern Retro Specs: Includes “throwback” features like a 3.5mm headphone jack and 2TB microSD support alongside 5G. | Small Display: The 4-inch OLED screen is excellent for text but may feel cramped for modern app navigation. |
| Custom Alerts: The “Signal LED” provides a glanceable, color-coded way to identify important notifications. | Niche Appeal: Those not already prone to carrying two devices may find it redundant. |
Power Keyboard: The Modern Sidekick
For users who prefer their current smartphones, Clicks introduced the Power Keyboard. This MagSafe/Qi2-compatible accessory adds a full QWERTY layout and directional keys to iOS or Android devices.
When attached, the phone can be rotated into a horizontal orientation reminiscent of the classic T-Mobile Sidekick. It includes an integrated 2,150 mAh battery and utilizes Bluetooth, allowing it to function with tablets and VR headsets.
Pricing and availability:
- Reservations: Open now.
- Retail Price: $110 ($80 early-bird).
- Launch: Expected Spring 2026.
The Power Keyboard is a universal magnetic accessory that brings a physical typing experience to almost any modern smartphone. Here are the things you can expect from the accessory:
| Pros | Cons |
| Universal Compatibility: Uses MagSafe/Qi2 and Bluetooth, meaning it works with both iPhone and Android (unlike previous Clicks cases). | Added Bulk: At 180g and 15.2mm thick, it essentially doubles the weight and thickness of most phones. |
| Integrated Battery: The 2,150 mAh battery powers the keyboard and can wirelessly “top up” your phone. | Charging Speeds: Wireless passthrough charging is convenient but typically slower than a direct wired connection. |
| Multi-Device Support: Can pair with up to three devices, allowing you to switch between a phone, tablet, and smart TV. | Ergonomics: Attaching it to the bottom of large “Pro Max” or “Ultra” phones can make the device feel top-heavy. |
| Sidekick Nostalgia: Supports landscape orientation, recreating the feel of classic horizontal slider phones. | Price Point: At $110, it is more expensive than many high-end standalone portable keyboards. |
CONAN Daily 