A portable multimedia device and a method of operating the same enables operation of a display device by direct manipulation of a bracket housing a display window of a portable communication device such as an MP3 player, a portable multimedia player, or a digital camera. The portable multimedia device includes: a display bracket housing the display window; a PCB bracket installed at a rear surface of the display bracket and is movable within a limited range in a thickness direction; a PCB fixed in the PCB bracket between the display bracket and the PCB bracket; and a plurality of tact switches installed around a periphery of the PCB capable of contacting the rear surface of the display bracket. Each of the tact switches controls one or more function of the portable multimedia device.