In a handheld computing device that includes a backlit display having a variable-intensity backlight, and a function key, a method for controlling an intensity of light produced by the backlight involves the steps of (1) setting the intensity to a first level sufficient for viewing information on the display under first ambient lighting; and (2) upon activation of the function key, setting the intensity to a second level sufficient for viewing information on the backlit display under second ambient lighting that is different than the first ambient lighting.