Abstract: A configurable modular communication device is composed of an information delivery module and an information input module that are matable to each other. The information delivery module is a single base unit that can work with a touchscreen keypad or a number of modular keypad or other information input attachments. The information input module enables a user to change the look of the modular communication device according to personal taste and enhances its functionality to fit the exact occasion and mode of use. The information delivery module acts on its own as the navigation key and provides on its display screen menu (including an on-screen touch sensing keypad) user access to all functionality including telephone, PDA (personal digital assistant), camera, clock, GPS, and MP3 music player. User-controlled navigation takes place on or in the vicinity of the display screen, whether by hard or soft key actuation.

Abstract: A configurable modular communication device (200) is composed of an information delivery module (204) and an information input module (202) that are matable to each other. The information delivery module is a single base unit that can work with a touchscreen keypad (216) or a number of modular keypad or other information input attachments. The information input module enables a user to change the look of the modular communication device according to personal taste and enhances its functionality to fit the exact occasion and mode of use. The information delivery module acts on its own as the navigation key and provides on its display screen menu (including an on-screen touch sensing keypad) user access to all functionality including telephone (320), PDA (personal digital assistant) (270), camera (246), clock (80), and MP3 music player (280). User-controlled navigation takes place on or in the vicinity of the display screen, whether by hard or soft key actuation.