The Return of Physical Keyboards and Companion Devices: Key Trends in Mobile Tech

Daily Technology

16/01/2026

Physical keyboards are making a surprising comeback in the smartphone ecosystem. While touchscreen-only designs have dominated for over a decade, 2026 has brought renewed interest in tactile input and secondary devices aimed at productivity and digital wellbeing. Here are the most important trends, with explanations and concrete industry examples.

1. Rise of Smartphone Companion Devices

Companion devices designed to work alongside primary smartphones are gaining traction. The Clicks Communicator exemplifies this trend—a dedicated device focused on communication, stripped of social media distractions, and positioned as a tool for work and concentration. It synchronizes with a user's existing phone to handle emails and texts, similar to how a Kindle complements an iPad by optimizing for a specific use case. This approach resonates with privacy-seeking users and those consciously separating work from leisure activities, aligning with the broader movement toward digital wellness and multitasking efficiency.

2. Revival of Tactile Keyboards

Clicks Technology has tapped into nostalgia by introducing products with classic physical keyboards reminiscent of BlackBerry devices. The newly announced Power Keyboard attaches magnetically to modern smartphones, providing real, clicky feedback instead of touchscreen vibrations. This trend reflects renewed interest in tangible input devices among users who prioritize confident, accurate typing and productivity, especially in professional environments. The Power Keyboard supports versatile use cases, attaching via MagSafe or Qi2 magnets, and works with tablets, TVs, AR, and VR devices—a development that underscores the growing demand for cross-device tools.

3. Focus on Digital Minimalism and Reduced Distractions

Products like the Clicks Communicator emphasize streamlined experiences by paring down smartphone functions to essentials: messaging, calls, and note-taking. This shift addresses growing concerns over distraction and doomscrolling, turning back toward single-purpose, intentional use of tech. Representative companies, like Clicks Technology, cite actual behavioral trends—such as people carrying a second device for privacy or work-life balance—validated in recent market surveys and user feedback. By excluding most apps and prioritizing user focus, these designs aim to help users set clearer boundaries.

4. Modular and Customizable Device Ecosystems

Clicks’ interchangeable device backs and attachment methods for its keyboard highlight a movement toward modularity in consumer electronics. Customers can tailor devices to their preferences—choosing from multiple colors, physical sizes, and configurations—while benefitting from compatibility across devices. The Power Keyboard’s ability to connect with a range of smart devices exemplifies this trend. Modular, customizable solutions are being driven by user expectations for products that age well, adapt to multiple roles, and foster longevity, reducing electronic waste and boosting satisfaction.

5. Emphasis on Standalone Functionality and Multi-Platform Integration

The Communicator integrates features like expandable storage, dual SIM options (physical and eSIM), and runs Android 16, ensuring it stands alone as a functional secondary device. Meanwhile, peripherals like the Power Keyboard support use not just with phones, but also with tablets, TVs, and in AR/VR settings. Representing a broader industry movement, this expansion allows users seamless transitions between different digital platforms—a trend echoed by other tech leaders investing in cross-platform ecosystems.

These trends are revitalizing interest in physical interaction and focused productivity in mobile technology, underscored by real product offerings and shifting consumer behaviors observed in recent years.

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