Radio telephone

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In accordance with the present invention there is provided a radio telephone operable in respective user selectable default modes to which the radio telephone returns under predetermined conditions comprising a processor, and user input means having a key with an associated legend for indicating the prevailing function associated therewith, the processor being operable to respond to actuation of the key to perform the respective associated function in the respective default modes.
The invention has the advantage of allowing different users to have a default mode tailored to their needs.
The default modes may allow respectively simplified and complex use.
The user is preferably able to select the function associated with the programmable key in a default mode.
This allows any feature that might otherwise be difficult to perform because a large number of keystrokes are required to reach the function in a menu environment to be performed with a single key stroke.
As the function is selectable by the user, the user can customise the telephone to cater for his or her individual needs and priorities.
For example, if the user frequently wishes to change the default mode of operation of the handset, the user could select entry to the change of default mode menu setting on actuation of the programmable key.
Providing a programmable key for which the user can select a particular function in a particular default mode allows the user to set the telephone to a mode in which the particular function is performed by actuating the programmable key.
A function given a high priority to an individual user is accessible without necessitating a large number of key presses or providing an additional button that adds to the size, weight, cost, cluttered appearance and intimidation produced by the user interface; all of which radio telephone designers are striving to avoid.
The default mode is the mode that the handset enters on exit from other modes of operation of the telephone.
The default mode will suitably be entered on powering up the telephone, and on termination of a telephone call