Clicks Power Keyboard Adds BlackBerry Typing to Smartphones

Clicks launched its $99 Power Keyboard on May 14, 2024, a physical accessory designed to bring a BlackBerry-style typing experience to modern smartphones. The keyboard slides out from a case and attaches magnetically to the back of compatible phones using MagSafe or Qi2 technology. This innovation aims to cater to users who miss the tactile feedback and efficiency of physical keyboards, a feature largely absent from the touchscreen-dominated smartphone market since BlackBerry's decline.

The Power Keyboard features a full QWERTY layout with dedicated keys for common smartphone functions, and Clicks emphasizes its customizability. Users can remap keys and create shortcuts through the Clicks mobile app, allowing for a personalized typing workflow. The keyboard connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, and its internal battery is rechargeable through a USB-C port. Clicks claims the battery can last up to a week on a single charge with typical usage, and the keyboard itself is designed to be relatively slim when not in use.

However, the accessory is not without its compromises. The added bulk and weight of the Power Keyboard can make larger smartphones, such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, feel unwieldy. While the magnetic attachment is secure, the overall thickness of the combined phone and keyboard unit may present challenges for pocketability and one-handed operation. Clicks acknowledges these trade-offs, positioning the Power Keyboard as a niche product for enthusiasts who prioritize typing speed and tactile feel over the sleekness and portability of a standard smartphone.

The launch of the Power Keyboard taps into a nostalgic demand for physical keyboards, a segment of the mobile market that has seen little innovation in recent years. BlackBerry devices, once dominant, were known for their physical keyboards that facilitated rapid and accurate typing, a capability that many users still value. Clicks' product attempts to bridge the gap between the legacy of BlackBerry's design and the current smartphone ecosystem, offering a tangible alternative to on-screen keyboards for those seeking a more physical interaction with their devices. The company is targeting users who may have fond memories of BlackBerry or who find modern smartphone typing to be less efficient for their needs.