An apparatus for sensing user input includes a first strain gauge grouping attached to an inner surface of a housing of a device, and a second strain gauge grouping attached to the inner surface of the housing. The apparatus includes a circuit coupled to the first and second strain gauge groupings, the circuit being configured to: (i) receive a first parameter signal from the first strain gauge grouping in response to user input that interacts with the housing over a location of the first strain gauge grouping, (ii) indicate that a first type of user input has been received in response to receipt of the first parameter signal, (iii) receive a second parameter signal from the second strain gauge grouping in response to user input that interacts with the housing over a location of the second strain gauge grouping, and (iv) indicate that a second type of user input has been received in response to receipt of the second parameter signal.