Sony To Offer Official Keyboard Attachment For PS3 Controllers

Sony has announced a new keyboard input add-on for Playstation 3 controllers at the 2008 Leipzig Games Convention. I’ve seen these types of keyboards before for the XBox360 controller and even the MadCatz PS3 (horrid reviews), but honestly, this one reeks of Sony quality and looks very effective. The new add-on also has a small touchpad and a mouse attachment that allows greater flexibility for navigation and should be very useful for the upcoming Playstation HOME. It is also compatible with SIXAXIS or DUALSHOCK3 controllers by plugging into the mini-USB port. There is no immediate word on how this will influence the controller’s battery. Sony has also stated that it can be paired with phones and other gadgets via Bluetooth. Pricing is unknown, but expect to see this right before Christmas in late November.

There will also be two short cut buttons on the Keypad that will enable users to jump directly to the XMB’s “Friends” icon and the “Message Box” during gameplay.

Will the weight of this attachment impact the useability of the PS3 controller? How will this affect SIXAXIS motion sensing?

Information courtesy of Joystiq and Playstation.BLOG.