An electronic device, such as a handset for providing telephonic communication, having a semi-translucent finish is provided. The handset generally includes a front cover with a display region, an input region and a back cover. The front cover may be formed of a transparent material, such as plastic and be covered by a semi-translucent vacuum metallized thin film. The handset includes an active mode wherein a display panel is illuminated and is visible through the thin film, and a standby mode wherein the display panel is not illuminated and not visible and, instead, the front cover appears as a continuous surface with a metallic finish. The handset also includes a base unit with an outer area that may change color to indicate the handset is properly positioned within the base unit. The base unit also includes electrical contacts to act as a charging unit.