Clicks Power Keyboard Brings Physical Typing to Modern Smartphones

Physical smartphone keyboards may have disappeared from the mainstream, but Clicks Technology is trying to bring them back. 

The company’s $99 Power Keyboard is designed to give modern phones a typing experience similar to the classic BlackBerry, while still supporting a wide range of devices.

The accessory connects to compatible phones using MagSafe or Qi2 and slides out when you need to type. 

It can be used with phones of different sizes and supports both portrait and landscape positions.

A Keyboard Designed for Everyday Typing

The main attraction of the Clicks Power Keyboard is its physical keys. 

Instead of tapping on a touchscreen, users can type using small tactile buttons with an adjustable backlight.

The keyboard connects to phones through Bluetooth and has its own 2,150mAh battery. This means it does not need to take power directly from the smartphone. 

The built-in battery can also provide wireless charging for compatible devices.

Clicks has designed the keyboard to be customizable as well. 

Users can change the function of certain keys, activate cursor controls, adjust the backlight, and create shortcuts for common actions. 

It can also work with Apple Shortcuts for tasks such as making calls, sending messages, or controlling device features.

There Are Some Trade-Offs

While the concept is appealing, the Power Keyboard is not perfect.

Adding a physical keyboard underneath a smartphone makes the overall device heavier and thicker. 

Larger phones can become particularly uncomfortable to hold in portrait mode. 

Users with protective phone cases may also find that the keyboard is harder to use comfortably.

The accessory can take some time to get used to, especially for people who have spent years typing on touchscreen keyboards. 

Landscape mode may feel more natural on larger phones.

Portability is another concern. At around 180 grams, the keyboard adds noticeable weight, and its extended design may not be convenient to carry in smaller pockets.

More Than Just a Smartphone Keyboard

One interesting feature is that the Power Keyboard is not limited to phones. 

Since it works as an external Bluetooth keyboard, it can potentially be paired with tablets, smart TVs, and compatible AR or VR devices.

This could make it useful in situations where entering passwords, email addresses, or other text with a remote or headset controller is difficult.

A Preview of Clicks’ Bigger Plan

The Power Keyboard also gives users a preview of Clicks’ upcoming Communicator smartphone, which is expected to feature a built-in physical keyboard.

For people who still enjoy the feel of physical keys, the accessory offers a relatively affordable way to bring that experience to a modern phone.

Conclusion

The Clicks Power Keyboard successfully brings physical typing back to smartphones, but it comes with compromises in weight, comfort, and portability. 

It is unlikely to replace a touchscreen keyboard for everyone, but BlackBerry fans and users who prefer tactile typing may find it appealing. 

Its ability to work with other Bluetooth devices also gives the accessory uses beyond smartphones.