i dont think theres any other way other than hitting the icon... i know if you go into options>general options>initial view and select dial pad that will show the dial pad first when you hit the send button but i dont think it will keep the dial pad up when making a call... but whats 2 more seconds for hitting the icon? not that big of a deal IMO
I've also found that during a call (you must be on a call, not on the phone menu prior to calling) you can swipe up to get the dial pad, and swipe down to hide it. This works just like the keyboard does throughout the rest of the apps on the phone.
I've also found that during a call (you must be on a call, not on the phone menu prior to calling) you can swipe up to get the dial pad, and swipe down to hide it. This works just like the keyboard does throughout the rest of the apps on the phone.