Clicks Communicator Launches with Upgraded Specs and New Mobile Service
The BlackBerry-inspired phone defies industry trends with more RAM and competitive pricing.
1Unexpected hardware upgrades
The Clicks Communicator will now ship with 12GB RAM (up from 8GB) and a 4,350mAh battery (up from 4,000mAh), bucking the industry trend of cutting specs while maintaining its $499 preorder price. This comes as major brands like Apple and Samsung are raising prices citing higher component costs, particularly for AI data center demands. The upgrades were made possible by unexpectedly strong preorder numbers since the January CES announcement.
2Nostalgic yet modern design
Designed by a former BlackBerry designer, the Communicator combines retro features like a physical keyboard, notification LED, and headphone jack with modern smartphone capabilities. The keyboard includes a Prompt Key for voice input and shortcuts, while an LED loop provides visual alerts for calls and messages. The design was inspired by using a Motorola Razr's cover screen inside Clicks' keyboard case prototype.
3New mobile service option
While the phone works with any carrier's nano SIM or eSIM, Clicks is launching its own Clicks Mobile service in partnership with AT&T (US) and Vodafone (UK). The unlocked device gives users flexibility to choose between their existing carrier or Clicks' new voice/data service, adding value to the $499 price point in an era of carrier-locked devices.
4Enhanced durability options
Clicks offers extended warranty and accidental damage protection for $129 covering two years in the US and Canada, with immediate replacement guarantees. The phone also features a swappable backplate and supports 15W Qi2 wireless charging. Accessory partners like Dbrand are creating minimalist cases and screen protectors, while Clicks offers its own $49 bumper case.
5Unique notification system
The phone's Signal Light feature provides customizable LED notifications that differentiate between call types and contacts through color patterns. This system improves upon similar features found in premium phones like the Pixel 11 Pro, making notifications more functional and visible compared to competitors' implementations that remain largely dormant.
6Efficiency-focused interface
The Communicator uses a customized version of Niagara Launcher for one-handed operation, displaying apps in a scrollable list. Users can read and respond to messages directly from the home screen without opening apps, with plans to enable full keyboard shortcut replies. The physical keyboard's red Clicks Key enables various shortcuts and can be reassigned for different functions.
7Preorder configuration options
Early adopters can now customize their Communicator's color, keyboard layout, and accessories through Clicks' website. The $499 preorder price represents a $150 discount available until September 30. The company has seen strong demand for what it calls a 'thoughtfully designed' alternative to mainstream smartphones.
8Challenging industry norms
The Communicator represents a rare counter-trend in smartphones, offering more hardware for the money when competitors are cutting specs and raising prices. Its success could pressure larger manufacturers to reconsider their pricing strategies, especially for productivity-focused devices that appeal to professionals valuing physical keyboards and efficient communication features.
Original article: CNET — Clicks Communicator Launches with Upgraded Specs and New Mobile Service