Systems and methods are provided that facilitate configuration of a keypad by end users of the portable host device, via employing a mapping component that can map individual keys of the keypad to characters and/or functions predefined by a user (e.g., defined for the host unit via a proprietary application/software). The reconfigurable keypad of the present invention can provide for a one touch access to special characters and/or performance of predetermined functions designated by the user, and thus facilitates performances of customized functions that can be unique to the end users.