At CES 2026, I stumbled upon some unusual phones that are shaking up the industry. These devices aren't exactly center stage, but they're definitely worth a closer look.
Clicks, a company known for its keyboard cases, unveiled a phone called the Communicator that leans heavily into its BlackBerry DNA. This phone boasts a full keyboard and a Curve-esque design that's sure to spark some interest among those who crave something more tactile from their smartphones. The prototype was functional only when it came to typing, but I couldn't help but feel drawn to the sleek interchangeable back panels – especially in the fuzzy tennis ball optic yellow option.
What sets the Communicator apart is its purpose: not a replacement for your daily driver, but rather a companion device that's meant to be used alongside it. It's perfect for situations where you need a keyboard, like typing out an email or taking notes. Jeff Gadway, co-founder and marketing lead at Clicks, noted that they've been surprised by the number of people expressing interest in using the Communicator as their primary phone. Who knew?
Another phone that caught my eye was the MindOne Pro, a small Android device with a square format, 4-inch screen, and an impressive 50-megapixel rear camera. The kicker? This phone can double as a kickstand for your selfies. Ben Sin brought this to my attention, and I have to admit that after weeks of carrying around the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the MindOne Pro felt light and comfortable in my pocket.
Lastly, there's the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold – not exactly what you'd expect from a company known for its rectangular glass slabs. This device folds into a larger format when unfolded, making it an intriguing option for those who want to use their phone as a tablet or even as a makeshift computer. The versatility is undeniable.
These phones aren't here to replace your current device but rather offer alternatives that cater to specific needs and preferences. In today's world where smartphones can be intrusive and overwhelming, these devices aim to change the game by incorporating features like keyboards, unique designs, and innovative uses for cameras.
The rectangular slabs are still incredible pieces of tech, but it's refreshing to see companies experimenting with new shapes and functionalities that put users' needs first. Whether you're looking for something more tactile or just want a device that can handle specific tasks with ease, these phones might be worth considering – especially if you're willing to venture off the beaten path.
Clicks, a company known for its keyboard cases, unveiled a phone called the Communicator that leans heavily into its BlackBerry DNA. This phone boasts a full keyboard and a Curve-esque design that's sure to spark some interest among those who crave something more tactile from their smartphones. The prototype was functional only when it came to typing, but I couldn't help but feel drawn to the sleek interchangeable back panels – especially in the fuzzy tennis ball optic yellow option.
What sets the Communicator apart is its purpose: not a replacement for your daily driver, but rather a companion device that's meant to be used alongside it. It's perfect for situations where you need a keyboard, like typing out an email or taking notes. Jeff Gadway, co-founder and marketing lead at Clicks, noted that they've been surprised by the number of people expressing interest in using the Communicator as their primary phone. Who knew?
Another phone that caught my eye was the MindOne Pro, a small Android device with a square format, 4-inch screen, and an impressive 50-megapixel rear camera. The kicker? This phone can double as a kickstand for your selfies. Ben Sin brought this to my attention, and I have to admit that after weeks of carrying around the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the MindOne Pro felt light and comfortable in my pocket.
Lastly, there's the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold – not exactly what you'd expect from a company known for its rectangular glass slabs. This device folds into a larger format when unfolded, making it an intriguing option for those who want to use their phone as a tablet or even as a makeshift computer. The versatility is undeniable.
These phones aren't here to replace your current device but rather offer alternatives that cater to specific needs and preferences. In today's world where smartphones can be intrusive and overwhelming, these devices aim to change the game by incorporating features like keyboards, unique designs, and innovative uses for cameras.
The rectangular slabs are still incredible pieces of tech, but it's refreshing to see companies experimenting with new shapes and functionalities that put users' needs first. Whether you're looking for something more tactile or just want a device that can handle specific tasks with ease, these phones might be worth considering – especially if you're willing to venture off the beaten path.
. I mean, who needs another gadget taking up space in their pocket? The Communicator's full keyboard is just a novelty, and it'll probably drive me crazy with all the key presses and distractions 
. And don't even get me started on the MindOne Pro's selfie kickstand – it's like they're trying to make us take more selfies 
. As for the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, I'm underwhelmed by its gimmick of being a tablet or computer in disguise 
. Can't we just have a phone that's actually good at what it does?
Distracted Boyfriend 2: He's not even tempted by your daily driver anymore 
. I mean, who doesn't love having a good keyboard on their phone? 
. And the MindOne Pro doubling as a kickstand for selfies? Genius! 
I can already imagine having one of these phones on vacation and whipping it out for a quick group selfie 
. The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold is pretty cool too – who needs a tablet when you have a phone that folds into one? 
i'm so down for a physical keyboard and a design that's not all bland and boring. it sounds like a total game changer for people who still want to type on their phones instead of just swiping away at tiny screens. i also love the idea of a phone being a companion device, not just something you carry around everywhere. and wow, a kickstand camera? 
- I mean, who needs to carry around a selfie tripod when you've got a built-in one? And that 50-megapixel camera isn't too shabby either 
- it's wild to think about using your phone as a makeshift computer!
? The possibilities are endless! 
. I mean, who would've thought we'd see a resurgence of keyboards on our smartphones? It's like we all forgot how good it felt to type out a decent paragraph without autocorrect ruining everything. The Communicator is definitely a cute addition to our crowded phone scene 
. I'm also loving the MindOne Pro's kickstand feature - who needs a selfie stick when you can just carry your own phone around? 
.
keyboards on smartphones are a game changer btw who needs a touchscreen when u can type away 
that funky yellow option is a winner tho, so sick 
Those keyboards on those Communicator phones are GONNA change the game, fam 
The Curve design is giving me all the 90s vibes, and that fuzzy tennis ball optic yellow option is EVERYTHING 
. I'm low-key excited to see how these phones are gonna shake up the industry - we need more options for people who want to use their phone differently. The MindOne Pro's kickstand selfie mode is genius