Abstract: A handheld telecommunication device includes a housing, keys, a display, a speaker, a microphone, and an electronic operating circuit connected to and co-operable with the display, the speaker, and the microphone for performing various functions including telecommunication functions. The operating circuit includes a sensor for sensing placement of the housing close to a body part of a human user of the telecommunication device and within a relatively short distance, and a control for, in response to sensing of a body part within the relatively short distance, deactivating the keys for a period generally as long as the housing is held within the relatively short distance from the body part.