Abstract: Apparatus for automatically alerting a user of a handheld communications device of an incoming transmission includes a plurality of sensors each of which produces a signal indicative of a physical parameter of a surrounding environment of the handheld communications device. Also included is a processor that executes a programmed set of instructions to determine an optimal alert mode setting based on a combination of the sensor signals. A plurality of output units produces one or more sensory alert outputs In response to the optimal alert mode setting. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).