At CES 2026, the tech industry showcased a diverse range of smartphone designs, moving beyond the traditional rectangular glass slabs. While robots demonstrated household tasks on the main stage, the sidelines revealed intriguing innovations in phone form factors.
One standout was the Communicator by Clicks, a device that combines a full keyboard with a BlackBerry-inspired aesthetic. Although still in the prototype stage, the tactile keyboard keys and interchangeable back panels suggest a unique user experience. Positioned as a supplementary device rather than a primary smartphone, the Communicator targets users seeking a focused typing experience, such as composing emails during a busy convention.
Another notable find was the MindOne Pro by Ikko, a compact Android phone with a square form factor. Despite its inconspicuous booth location, the device caught attention for its unconventional design, reflecting a trend towards more diverse phone shapes in the market.
These discoveries at CES 2026 indicate a shift towards personalized, task-specific phone options alongside the traditional slate of glass rectangles, offering users a chance to explore novel form factors and functionalities beyond the mainstream.
Source: The Verge