Patcay.com – Remember the satisfying clicks of the iconic BlackBerry physical keyboard? For many, it was a hallmark of the smartphone era defined by speed, accuracy, and tactile feedback. And although touchscreens have now become the norm, a company called Clicks believes that there is still a market for the classic typing experience.
Clicks is a new phone case that can be fitted to modern iPhones, adding a full QWERTY keyboard that slides out from the bottom.
Inspired by the BlackBerrys of old, the Clicks keyboard offers raised tactile keys, autocorrect, and sweep gestures to navigate the phone without leaving the keyboard.
But why bring back a physical keyboard in the age of autocorrect and lightning-fast predictive text? David Khourshid, co-founder of Clicks, offers a few reasons:
Read More: Samsung Galaxy S24 : Technology that Shakes Up 2024
- Accuracy and Speed
For some people, physical keyboards simply offer a level of accuracy and speed that touchscreens can’t match. This is especially true for long emails, documents, or anyone who values error-free typing.
- Content Immersion
Clicks argues that physical keyboards free up valuable screen space, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in content or apps without the keyboard taking up half the screen.
- Tactile Feedback
For many people, the click and physical feel of pressing a key is simply more satisfying than typing on glass. It provides a sense of control and engagement that some find lacking in touchscreens.
Read More: Tips to Optimize Smartphone Memory
Of course, Clicks is not the first to attempt a physical keyboard comeback. Blackberry itself tried with the Priv and KeyOne, but ultimately failed to regain market share. So, can Clicks succeed where others have failed?
Several factors could work in their favor:
- Targeted Niche
Clicks focuses on a specific niche – professionals, creators, and anyone who prioritizes accuracy and speed. This targeted approach can help them find success in a crowded market.
Read More: European Union Starts Using USB Type-C
- Modern Design
Clicks isn’t just a clunky add-on. It is a sleek and well-designed case that integrates seamlessly with the iPhone. This aesthetic appeal can be key to attracting tech-savvy users.
- Software Integration
Clicks has built custom software that integrates with iOS, offering features like keyboard shortcuts and text prediction. This level of polish could give them an edge over competitors.
However, challenges remain:
Read More: Improving Smartphone Memory Performance: Powerful Tips!
- Price: At $139, Clicks is a sizable investment compared to a regular case. This may deter some potential buyers.
- Size: Adding a physical keyboard inevitably adds bulk to the phone. This could be a dealbreaker for some users who prioritize portability.
- Market Viability: The question remains – is there enough demand for a physical keyboard in today’s touchscreen-dominated world? Only time will tell if Clicks can carve out a sustainable niche in the smartphone market.
Whether Clicks will spark a physical keyboard revolution or remain a niche player, it is an interesting experiment in bringing back a forgotten technology.
It is a reminder that there is still room for innovation and differentiation in the smartphone world, even beyond the pursuit of bigger screens and faster processors.
So, if you’re someone who misses the sound of BlackBerry clicks and values accuracy over autocorrect, Clicks might be the case you’ve been waiting for.