Ok, you have not quite joined the true idea of next-gen gaming on the PlayStation 3 by running out and buying a Bluetooth headset so you can chat with gaming friends or even with others you team up with for a Resistance 2 scenario. You want to chat with them, but the idea of hauling out a USB keyboard is not that appealing, and you have not invested in a wireless USB-based keyboard either.

Well, SCEA has another option for you, and one that is perfect for those who have embraced the whole idea of texting on cell phones. The Wireless Keypad for the PlayStation 3 is a peripheral device that snaps onto a PS3 SIXAXIS controller and sits above the hotkeys and thumbsticks while still allowing easy access to the shoulder buttons.

The device uses wireless Bluetooth technology, but does require charging, much like the controller itself. It is also geared for thumb typing, though the keyboard arrangement is configured in the standard keyboard QWERTY format.

About the only thing missing from the additional buttons offered is access to the XMB on the PS3 console and the messaging system and friends’ list … wait a minute! The Wireless Keypad has two additional buttons on it that shortcut straight to those lists. The press of a finger or thumb will pull up your messages or your friends’ lists so you can see who has sent you what or who is on quickly and easily. 

Now, if you are one of those users who fumbles around with a cell phone when it comes to texting, the spacing of this keypad may not be your cup of tea. The keys are somewhat reminiscent of a Blackberry keypad and the dexterity required to rapidly thumb in a message or response is similar to the acrobatics required to text on a cell phone.

Two young teens tried the keypad and thought it was “sweet,” “easy to use and looks cool, too.”

As a veteran, though, of a wireless USB Logitech keyboard, the SCEA keypad took some getting used to, and the process was a tad slower than using all 10 digits on the hands to type. Still, the lightweight design of the keypad, and the way it snaps into place on the controller body creates a near seamless fit.

The device does offer a nice fit to the PS3, but owning it depends on several factors – how comfortable you are with texting on a small-format keyboard and whether you own a larger USB keyboard that works on the console, or have gone the way of the headset.

The unit retails for $49.99.

Pros:

• Sleek design that snaps onto the PS3 controller easily

• Button access is nice and shortcut keys provide quick ways to access message box and friends’ list

• Bluetooth functionality is great

Cons:
The keypad is geared for those who really can use text pads akin to a cell phone. For others the spacing might be a bit of a problem.

Overall: 8.5
This is a solid idea that is well designed and attaches to the PS3 controller in a manner that is not obtrusive. If you have bigger hands, or are not that comfortable with texting a la a cell phone, then this might be a tad small for regular usage; however, if you are very comfortable with the whole texting mentality, do not have a Bluetooth headset for your PS3 and want to communicate with friends or fellow adventurers, this is a great little product.