"Physical buttons" refers to tangible, touch-activated controls found on a device that you can press or interact physically with, such as those on a keyboard or a remote control. Full definition
It was the first genre to overcome the lack of physical buttons on smartphones well enough that it made the games worth playing. (androidauthority.com)
The infotainment system can be controlled with the rotary dial beneath the shifter, but there are plenty of physical buttons for both the climate control and infotainment system. (cnet.com)
The smartphone will also opt for virtual buttons instead of physical buttons on the front. (dealntech.com)