Unveiling the Clicks Communicator: A Bold Step Back in Time for Phone Enthusiasts
In a world where smartphones have become increasingly complex, a new device dares to challenge the status quo. The Clicks Communicator, a secondary phone optimized for messaging, is a refreshing throwback to the good old days of physical keyboards and headphone jacks. But here's where it gets controversial: it's not just a retro design choice, it's a bold statement about the future of phone functionality.
Patrick Holland, Managing Editor at CNET, takes us on a journey through this unique device, exploring its features and the vision behind it. With a background in theater and a passion for all things mobile, Patrick brings a unique perspective to this hands-on review.
The Clicks Communicator is a breath of fresh air, reminiscent of the iconic BlackBerry phones of the past. Designed by a former BlackBerry designer, it runs on Android 16, offering a sleek and contemporary twist to an old-school concept. In just an hour with a prototype, Patrick was hooked, declaring it his favorite CES gadget in years.
What sets the Communicator apart is its clever combination of old and new. In a compact design, it packs a physical keyboard, a notification alert light, a headphone jack, and an array of buttons. It's a straightforward Android smartphone with all the features that modern phones have seemingly forgotten.
And this is the part most people miss: the Communicator is not just about nostalgia. It's about providing an optimized experience for typing and voice-to-text recording, minimizing distractions in an age of AI-centric attention stealers. It's designed to be a secondary device, complementing your regular smartphone, much like Palm attempted a decade ago.
Jeff Gadway, CMO at Clicks, compares it to a Kindle to an iPad, a complementary product with a specific purpose. In this case, the purpose is confident communication in a noisy world.
We often compromise on how features are implemented on our smartphones. For example, while an iPhone 17 Pro allows for typing and responding to texts and emails, the experience is often more enjoyable on a physical keyboard. The Communicator's focus on input and its ability to be a standalone device opens up a world of possibilities.
It could be the ideal work phone, keeping you focused on tasks without the temptation of social media. It caters to those seeking a phone that doesn't demand constant attention, whether they're burnt out from excessive online activity or miss the simplicity of physical keyboards and headphone jacks.
Priced at $499, with pre-order and reservation options available, the Communicator joins the Clicks Keyboard Pro and Keyboard Case. Gadway emphasizes their mission: to build tech for people who want to do things, not just scroll endlessly.
Here are some standout features:
- Name: Inspired by the iconic Star Trek voice device, the Communicator is designed for optimal typing and voice-to-text experiences.
- Design: Compact and solid, it weighs only 170 grams, with a 4-inch screen and a keyboard featuring 43% larger keys than the Clicks keyboard case.
- Android 16 and Niagara Launcher: Curates messages from apps like WhatsApp and Slack directly on the homescreen, allowing quick responses without app hopping.
- Prompt Key and Signal Light: A button for voice-to-text recording, surrounded by a customizable notification light, making it easy to distinguish messages and notifications.
- Removable Backplate: Ergonomic and interchangeable, supporting Qi2.2 wireless charging, with a variety of polycarbonate and leather options.
Other notable features include a 50-megapixel rear camera, 24-megapixel front camera, 4,000 mAh battery, 256GB storage, physical SIM card tray, eSIM, 3.5mm headphone jack, 5 years of security updates, global 5G/4G/3G/2G support, NFC with Google Pay, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C and wireless charging, and a configurable mute switch.
The Clicks Communicator is a bold step towards a more focused and distraction-free phone experience. It raises questions: In a world of endless distractions, is there a place for a phone that prioritizes productivity and simplicity? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!
