Communications device methods and apparatus including ergonomic key layout and intuitive user interface

A method of controlling audio output levels in a cell phone operating an on state in response to activation of either of a first and second control element the cell phone including a lid which can be in either an open or closed position, the method comprising:

• detecting when one of said first and second control elements is activated;
• and
• determining the volume control operation to be performed as a function of both said lid position and which one of said first and second control elements was activated.

A method of controlling a portable communications device, the method comprising:

• monitoring during a non-speaker phone mode of operation at least one user input device to detect when an increase volume option has been selected by a user of the portable communications device when an audio output level has already been set to the maximum audio output level;
• in response to detecting when an increase volume option has been selected by a user of the portable communications device when the audio output level has already been set to the maximum audio output level, prompting the user to indicate if the user would like to switch to a speaker phone mode of operation;
• in response to detecting a user input indicative of selection of a switch to a speaker phone mode of operation, switching from said non-speaker phone mode of operation to a speakerphone mode of operation.