1. A method of facilitating the input of information in a handheld electronic device having a plurality of input elements, comprising: receiving a signal indicating that a particular one of said input elements is being touched in a first manner; providing a feedback signal that identifies a character or symbol of said particular one of said input elements after said signal is received, said feedback signal being chosen based on an operating state of the handheld electronic device; and performing a function associated with said particular one of said input elements when said particular one of said input elements is being touched in a second manner, said function being determined based on the operating state of the handheld electronic device,