The Sony PS3, just like the portable PSP, aren’t exactly too user friendly when it comes to keying in characters. After all, things have remained relatively the same as consoles of yore when it comes to entering information and messages, no thanks to a missing keyboard (QWERTY or otherwise) and the rigidity of the D-pad. All this will change with Sony announcing a new gaming peripheral known as the Wireless Keypad. This peripheral is not a standalone device that is plugged into your PS3’s USB ports - instead, it must be docked into your SIXAXIS or DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controllers in order to work. North American will receive the Wireless Keypad first this November, followed by a Japan, Europe and Asia release before 2009 rolls around.

The highly anticipated Wireless Keypad is designed to fit precisely into the unique shape of SIXAXIS and DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controllers, and can be easily attached or removed. By using the product instead of the on-screen keyboard, users will be able to enjoy text chat communication more easily and comfortably in their hands, just as they would use familiar portable communication devices. It supports text chat in PlayStation Home as well, and enables users to enjoy interactivity playing on-line titles and enjoying entertainment content more smoothly. Equipped with Bluetooth functionality, the Wireless Keypad can be paired to PS3 by simply connecting the keypad to the USB cable that comes bundled with the PS3 system. Also, two shortcut buttons, a Communication Button and a Message Box Button, are placed on the lower part of the Wireless Keypad, enabling users to jump to pre-set features on XMB (XrossMediaBar) such as Friends” and “Message Box” during game play, which help PS3 users to smoothly communicate with each other. Additionally, a Touch Pad Button allows PS3 users to use the entire surface of the keypad as a touch pad, allowing them to easily maneuver the pointer while web browsing, simply by sliding their finger on the keypad surface.

There is no word on pricing, but it ought to be revealed during the official regional launches. Would you get this to enhance your PS3 experience, or do you think that this is yet another pointless device?

Press Release