Meet Karl Parry – a tech enthusiast, problem solver, and creator of some truly innovative solutions in the world of sports turf management. Karl's journey has taken him from managing golf courses worldwide to designing technology that helps improve performance and surfaces, including the ParryMeter used at major events like the Ryder Cup and LIV Golf. But beyond his professional achievements, Karl is a husband, father, and passionate Land Rover fan – particularly when it comes to his 1992 Defender 90, affectionately known as Betty.
We caught up with Karl to learn more about his life, his love for tactile tech, and how Clicks – and the customizable Clicks Mode feature he helped us develop – has changed the way he uses his iPhone.
Q1. Tell Us About Karl – Where Do You Live and What Do You Do?
Karl: I'm 39 years old, married to Elizabeth for 7 years, but we've been together for 22 years. We've just recently moved to our dream home, a smallholding equestrian property near Snowdon in Wales, where we live with our four dogs (Linkin, Chester, Willow, and Bella), six hens, and our two children. It's pretty much in the middle of nowhere, but we love it.
I've been working in the sports turf management industry since I left school at 17. I've managed golf courses around the world, but more recently, I've been incorporating technology into turf management. I created the ParryMeter, a device used globally to measure surface smoothness and trueness – a tool used at prestigious events like the Ryder Cup and LIV Golf. I've also developed software systems to help people understand things like soil analysis and weather data, and I even run an online academy to help others in the industry improve their skills.
Q2. Tell Us About Betty the Defender – Your Vintage Land Rover
Karl: Betty the Defender is a 1992 Land Rover Defender 90 200Tdi, and she's been a bit of a project for me. I bought her as an impulse purchase from a friend who had her sitting unused. I've always loved Land Rovers, especially the older models. They're simple, reliable, and repairable – no fancy tech or gadgets, just pure driving pleasure.
When COVID hit, I decided to keep myself busy with a restoration project, so I got Betty for a good price and started working on her. I've done a lot of modifications and restorations – you can check out my @bettythedefender Instagram for all the updates. The goal is to make her my daily driver, but I've also had requests to hire her out for people who want to camp in her and explore the mountains, beaches, and lakes of Wales. Early 2025, I'll be launching BettytheDefender Adventures, where people can rent her for off-grid adventures.
3. What Made You Interested in Clicks?
Karl: I've always been into tech, especially anything tactile. I was a big fan of BlackBerry devices and admired Steve Jobs' vision with Apple and when the Clicks Keyboard came out, being able to combine both was unbelievable. The idea of having physical buttons on a smartphone was something I'd longed for, especially as a minimalist. I wanted an app-driven experience that still gave me the simplicity and hands-on feel of a physical device.
When I learned that Clicks was created by some of the guys behind BlackBerry, like CrackBerry Kevin and Mr Mobile, I was sold. I was excited to try it, and after using it, I was blown away. Being part of creating the Clicks Mode feature was amazing. It felt surreal to have a FaceTime call with Kevin, but being able to contribute to something that was designed to simplify and enhance the iPhone experience was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. The process of discovering its potential and working on ways to improve it was incredibly rewarding.
4. How Has Clicks Changed the Way You Use Your iPhone?
Karl: I've always been about minimalism and simplicity. I like to remove as many distractions as possible and only keep the information I truly need. Before Clicks, my iPhone screen was cluttered with icons and apps, while managing multiple work accounts and personal data, and it became overwhelming. But after discovering Clicks Mode, I was able to create a more minimalist phone experience that actually works for me.
Now, my iPhone is super streamlined. I have minimal apps on my home screen and primarily use key widgets like the Weather, Calendar, Find My, and Reminders apps. My essential apps, like banking, investing, and health, are all assigned to keyboard shortcuts. This setup has dramatically reduced my screen time, which has halved since using Clicks. I can access everything I need with a simple button press – no distractions, no clutter, just the essentials.
5. What Are Your Most Used or Loved Clicks Mode Shortcuts?
Karl: I'm all about efficiency and keeping things clean, so my most used shortcuts are for apps and family communication. I've created custom shortcuts for things like quickly calling or messaging my family, which makes staying connected so much easier. I also love using the WSAD keys to navigate around my phone – it's a fun and intuitive way to move between apps without needing to swipe or tap.
I also use Clicks Mode for more functional purposes, like opening my favorite apps and keeping my brain working by memorizing the shortcuts. It's a great way to keep my phone experience simple while still getting everything I need done efficiently.
6. Tell Us About Your Custom "Heritage Edition" Clicks Keyboard
Karl: The Clicks Team wanted to thank me for my contributions in the development of Clicks Mode so they surprised me with a truly memorable gift… a one-of-a-kind "Heritage Edition" Clicks Keyboard inspired by Betty the Defender. The custom color is a nod to Betty's vintage charm, and it's been an amazing experience bringing that personal connection between my love for Land Rovers and my tech passion. It's a fun feeling having a bespoke Clicks that you can't buy anywhere - such a fun way to be recognized!
I'm excited to see where Clicks goes next, and it's been a pleasure to be part of this journey, from being an early adopter to helping shape features like Clicks Mode. It's not just about functionality; it's about creating a keyboard that resonates with who I am – simple, tactile, and purposeful. Having that kind of personalization on my iPhone keyboard brings everything full circle. If you're like me and love simplicity, tactile devices, and minimalism, Clicks might just be the iPhone upgrade you didn't know you needed.
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Karl's story is a testament to the power of combining passion with innovation. Whether it's creating tools for turf management or customizing his iPhone experience with Clicks, Karl's journey continues to inspire. If you're looking to streamline your own iPhone experience and discover a simpler, more intuitive way to use your device, Clicks may just be the solution you've been searching for. And if you're ever in Wales, don't forget to check out BettytheDefender Adventures for an unforgettable trip!