Clicks Technologies co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer Jeff Gadway joined The Zach Feldman Show on Z Radio Live for an exclusive interview about the upcoming Clicks Communicator, offering new details about the smartphone’s development, software, hardware, and the company’s plans for the future.
During the conversation with host Zach Feldman, Gadway revealed that Clicks is developing a previously undisclosed feature called Flex Fit, designed to improve how certain Android applications appear on the Communicator’s unique display.
The discussion also covered the phone’s anticipated launch, camera performance, physical keyboard durability, repairability, Android software support, and concerns raised by members of the Clicks community. Gadway also shared that he has begun using the Communicator as his primary smartphone and revealed that the company isn’t planning a successor model for 2027.
Watch the Full Interview With Jeff Gadway
Flex Fit, a New Feature for App Compatibility
One of the biggest revelations came when Feldman asked Gadway about application compatibility on the Communicator’s unconventional display, drawing comparisons to Mini Mode on the competing Unihertz Titan 2.
Gadway explained that Clicks has been developing its own solution, called Flex Fit, which adjusts applications into a 3:4 aspect ratio rather than the traditional 9:16 format used by Mini Mode.
“We think that there’s probably a better way to do that while achieving the same goal,” Gadway said.
The feature is designed to reduce black bars and make better use of the Communicator’s 1080 × 1200 display by adjusting the resolution when necessary.
Clicks is also developing the ability to activate Flex Fit through either the phone’s side-mounted Kill Switch or one of the physical keyboard’s modifier keys. Users could switch into Flex Fit when encountering an application that doesn’t display correctly, then return to the normal full-screen experience afterward.
However, Gadway emphasized that most Android applications he’s tested already work well on the device.
“I’m finding apps are compatible, they’re responsive, they look great. They feel great,” Gadway said.
He explained that Clicks has tested hundreds of popular applications from the Google Play Store. In one example, a community member in Thailand raised concerns about several smaller regional apps, but Gadway found that they worked without needing Flex Fit.
The feature is therefore being developed as an additional option for occasional compatibility issues, rather than a display mode users will need for everyday applications.
Development and Launch Progress
Gadway confirmed that the Communicator’s hardware is complete and that the company is concentrating on software optimization, certifications, and preparations for manufacturing.
He said development remains on schedule for the planned December 2026 launch.
Gadway also revealed that he had switched his primary phone number to the Communicator and was already using it as his everyday device, including for personal calls and video conversations.
Camera Expectations: Clicks Isn’t Chasing Flagship Photography
The Communicator includes a 50-megapixel rear camera and a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, but Gadway made clear that Clicks isn’t positioning the device as a competitor to today’s flagship camera phones.
Instead, the company is optimizing the cameras for everyday photography, candid moments, and video calls.
Gadway said the team is continuing to refine image processing and expects to share actual photo and video samples as development progresses.
Removable Back Covers, Battery Replacement and Repairability
The Communicator’s removable back covers were another major topic.
Gadway explained that the covers provide access to the physical SIM and microSD card slots while also allowing owners to personalize their devices with different colors and materials.
The smartphone includes 256GB of onboard storage, with additional capacity available through microSD expansion.
However, despite the removable back, the battery is not designed to be user-replaceable.
Gadway said Clicks explored that possibility but couldn’t incorporate it into this model.
The company is working to establish repair partners in key markets and is considering additional support for customer-performed repairs in the future. Replacement parts and self-repair options, however, are not planned for launch.
Keyboard Durability and Customer Support Concerns
Feldman also brought questions from the Clicks community directly to Gadway, including concerns about keyboard durability and customer support.
Gadway said the company has improved materials, paint adhesion, and durability testing based on lessons learned from previous Clicks products.
He also revealed that Clicks has been working with the organization that previously manufactured BlackBerry keyboards to help refine its testing procedures.
Addressing customer support complaints, Gadway acknowledged frustrations surrounding response times and said Clicks is doubling its frontline support staff, adding self-service tools, and expanding coverage to weekends.
Android 17, Niagara Launcher and Software Updates
The Communicator is planned to launch with Android 17, with operating system support through Android 20 and five years of security updates.
Gadway said Clicks expects to release additional software improvements several times a year, including new functionality after the device begins shipping.
The company has worked closely with Niagara Launcher to integrate features such as the touch-sensitive keyboard, Message Hub, and Signal Light.
While users will be able to install alternative Android launchers, some of the Communicator’s specialized features may not function as fully outside the customized Niagara experience.
Gadway also confirmed that advanced users will be able to request bootloader unlocking to explore alternative operating systems.
Carrier Compatibility, Accessibility and Accessories
The interview also covered the Communicator’s support for physical SIM cards and eSIM, including dual-SIM functionality.
Gadway discussed ongoing carrier certifications and Clicks Mobile, a partnered wireless service that will use AT&T’s network in the United States and Vodafone’s network in the United Kingdom.
Accessibility was another important topic. Gadway shared experiences involving customers with visual and motor accessibility needs who found physical keyboards easier to use than touchscreens.
When asked specifically about hearing aid compatibility, he said he would need to investigate further before confirming support.
The discussion also touched on wireless charging, NFC, interchangeable back covers, and potential third-party accessories. Gadway explained that the back covers contain wireless charging and NFC components, which presents challenges for unofficial or 3D-printed replacements.
What’s Next for Clicks Technologies?
Looking beyond the Communicator’s launch, Gadway shared an update on the company’s future product plans.
“We’re not planning on releasing a version of communicator next year,” he said, referring to 2027.
Instead, Clicks intends to focus on improving the existing device through software updates and additional features.
Gadway said the company is already discussing its roadmap for 2027, 2028, and 2029, including future developments across its keyboard cases, Power Keys, and Communicator product lines.
The comments suggest that Clicks wants the Communicator to remain a long-term product rather than follow an annual smartphone replacement cycle.
Watch the Complete Jeff Gadway Interview on Z Radio Live
From the reveal of Flex Fit to updates on the Communicator’s development and the future of Clicks Technologies, Gadway’s appearance on The Zach Feldman Show offered a closer look at the company’s plans as it prepares to release its first smartphone.
The full interview also includes questions submitted by the Clicks community, covering everything from hardware durability and repairability to software customization, accessibility, and customer support.
Watch the complete conversation above and visit Clicks Technologies for more information about the upcoming smartphone.
The Zach Feldman Show airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Eastern on ZRadioLive.com, The Web’s Hit Music Station.
