Use of multi-function switches for camera zoom functionality on a mobile phone

A method of controlling a combination mobile communication device and camera including a housing, a communication circuit, and a camera assembly, the method comprising:

• selectively activating one of an image capture mode, an image review mode, and a communication mode;
• using a multi-function control disposed on said housing as a zoom control for said camera assembly when in one of said image capture mode and said image review mode;
• using said multi-function control to control a communication function of said communication circuit when in said communication mode;
• and
• using said multi-function control to scale an image while maintaining a selected focal point at the center of a display screen when in said image review mode.

A camera phone comprising:

• a housing comprising a front, a back, and sides;
• a communication circuit disposed within said housing for transmitting and receiving signals when in a communication mode;
• a camera assembly disposed within said housing for selectively capturing, displaying, storing, and manipulating an image when in a camera mode, said camera assembly including a zoom function;
• a multi-directional control button disposed on one of said sides of said housing for controlling said zoom function for said camera assembly when in said camera mode and for controlling a volume associated with said communication circuit when in said communication mode;
• a detection circuit for detecting a position of a sliding panel covering a camera lens on said back of said housing for selectively activating said communication and camera modes.