SoftKey

A SoftKey, in the context of user interfaces, refers to a button or control whose function can change or be assigned dynamically by the software. Unlike hard keys (physical buttons with fixed functions), SoftKeys present different actions based on the current context of the application or system. Their labels, displayed next to the button (often on a screen above or alongside the key), indicate their current function.

SoftKeys are commonly found on mobile phones, PDAs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, and other devices with limited physical button space. They allow a device to offer a wide range of functionality without requiring a large number of dedicated hardware buttons.

The functions assigned to SoftKeys are typically determined by the application or operating system. They can be used for a variety of tasks, such as selecting menu options, navigating through screens, initiating commands, or entering data. The context sensitivity of SoftKeys means the same physical button can perform different actions depending on the screen being viewed or the application running. This adaptability helps optimize the user interface and makes devices more versatile.