In a World Without BlackBerry, Physical Keyboards on Phones Are Making a Comeback
Hacker News
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In recent years, physical keyboards on phones have made an unexpected comeback, capturing the attention of both nostalgia-driven users and tech enthusiasts seeking a more practical typing experience. This resurgence is evident in various products, from retrofitted BlackBerry devices to innovative keyboard cases like the Clicks case, which attaches to modern smartphones such as iPhones, Pixels, and Razr models. While BlackBerry itself no longer produces new hardware, companies like Zinwa are repurposing older Blackberry handsets with updated components, including Android OS, offering a blend of classic design and modern functionality. These developments cater to a growing desire for tactile feedback in an era dominated by touchscreens, as well as a demand for unique, alternative smartphone designs.
The appeal of physical keyboards lies in their practicality for tasks like drafting emails or editing documents, which can be cumbersome on touchscreens. Additionally, the trend taps into a broader fatigue with uniform smartphone designs and interfaces. This shift also resonates with younger audiences drawn to retro tech, creating a market that bridges generations. Products like Zinwa’s Q25 and Clicks’ keyboard case exemplify this evolution, offering functional solutions without requiring users to abandon their current devices
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/22/2026