PS3 Keypad a Gimmick?

Brutal Gamer writes:

"Sony recently announced their anwser to the 360's messenger pad but where Microsoft got it so right, Sony seem to have got it so wrong."

[Kenshin_BATT0USAI]

why is this under 360?

[Caxtus750]

sorry! was half asleep :( thanks for the info

[mohib-uddin7986532]

Hellbringer please try to change comment or it may start a war

Also anyone can think of a game key pad its not soemthing ms invented. it something simple

and ms have patented 5000 idea for xbox live just so sony cant improve? Want proof?

[Caxtus750]

No I do not need proof. As a gamer I don't care about patents for this and that. I simply want the best product available.

Im sure MS do have patents but that doesn't stop it having a better design in my opinion. Likewise, Sony have many patents meaning that the 360 could never have products as good as the Eyetoy for example.

[mohib-uddin7986532]

They patented 5000 simple idea such as Spectatin and some kind of friend system and soundtrack system in game

Very simple yet they were allowed to patent. The supreme court says anything under the son that is made by man can be patented. This is cheap and not fair

and yet MS is happy that they did something like this http://www.microsoft.com/pr...

[Caxtus750]

Why are you aiming it all at MS?

Every company does this...you sound like a fanboy...

[mohib-uddin7986532]

5000 simple ideas?

Thats just insnane. So dispciable dont you think

You probably dont have a mind if you dont think 5000 patents for xbox live is crazy?

[Caxtus750]

It is a little high but it would be interesting to know what Nintendo had for the Wii.

[mohib-uddin7986532]

By the way. Dont you even know what a patent is?

bubbles please, gave you one for keeping up this conversation

in sha allah (if god wills it) this article will be 100dgrs even before its approved

[Caxtus750]

A patent is something protecting an idea or design right? ie stopping copy-cat versions. 5000 is a lot and it may help explain why the PSN isn't quite what it should be. Any idea as to where I can find a list?

bubbles to you for keeping the conversation aslo :)

[mohib-uddin7986532]

http://patft.uspto.gov/

you can search all of MS patents there

however searching patents is so complicated you need to get a degree to now how to really search. you have to be a patent broker. i dotn really know how to search.

But that is the U.S patent office

[Kenshin_BATT0USAI]

why the hell would I need to change comment, the poster got my message, it wasn't fanboyish or anything, just told him to correct a mistake on the submission of the article, my comment wasn't even about the article itself.

btw there are many many loop holes in patents, plus, small changes in design of idea can be considered innovation, thus completely bypassing patents, remember that little patent of custom music? Yeah Sony bypassed it easily. and its nothing new either, everyone does it, its over things get better.

call it forced innovation if you like.

[Ben1054]

http://www.consolesource.co...
microsoft copied ps2 controller

[Overr8ed]

ITs not a gimmick if it was then it would sell like the wii, am going to buy this thing am tried of typing long messages with the Controller

[BISHOP-BRASIL]

Actually, there was this third party peripheral for PS3 from MadCatz. Almost all the same configurations, also comes on top of the controller. It came way before anyone was even talking the 360 peripheral, in fact, I have seen it like in March 2007.

So, technically, PS3 isn't copying 360, Sony is actually comepting with a third party peripheral or trying to push to the light this possibility with the controller.

And yes, PS2 have keyborad-controllers way before. And PS3 compatible.

The way I see, this don't matter since we should get DiNovo Edge Mini/Micro (don't remember the name, but it's about the same size of a PSP, a built-in mousepad and it's independent bluetooth accessory, don't need to plug in the controller) in almost no time now... Not to say, you can just use any keyboard (but there is the size problem, but I think that a standard mini kb - a basic kb without number pad, arrows and delete/page up area - can solve this).

[sumfood4u]

i prefer the good ol keyboard in the usb + controller for fighting! big hands wont like the little button to smash when typing!

[Adamalicious]

The DiNovo Mini is sweet, but too pricey for me ($132) - I don't think it would be useful enough to justify that price. But if I can get something like this to add on to a PS3 controller in the $20-$40 range I'll be happy - it'll save me lot's of time when I'm messaging on my PS3.

[StephanieBBB]

http://patft.uspto.gov/neta...

This is why Sony or Nintendo can't make an voice chat in-game. M$ has officialy no moral.

[godofthunder10]

ie been hearing that sony is the inovator and microsoft and nintendo are just following and copping from sony.I'm tired of hearing this because it's a lie,they all copy each other and that's a fact.

here's a few things that sony coppied from the other two

1-moition controller from nintendo

2-microsoft started online play first

3-the keypad they are talking about

4-while we are on it,they had a video game system out before atari even had one out.Now if any one want to claim that sony,microsoft,atari,and nintendo coppied off of them with video game systems then they are right.

and they have more things then this.Don't get me wrong microsoft and nintendo coppies to.they all coppied things from each other and that's a fact.I'm just tired of reading ps3 fanboys crap that sony never coppied from any one and they were the first one to come out with things and the other 2 coppied from them and it's far from the truth.the fact is that sony never came up with 1 original ideal of their on when it comes to video game systems.sony didn't come out first with

1-videogame systems
2-moition controllers
3-rummble
4-wireless controllers
5-online gameplay

don't get me wrong they made some things better that's it.i would like to see The ps3 fanboys proof that sony never coppied things from anyone especially these thing.

[BLuKhaos]

I believe that Sega was the first to do Online Console gaming,not MS.

[mohib-uddin7986532]

ms have patented 5000 idea for xbox live just so sony cant improve?

dispicable dont you think

[Caxtus750]

(thanks for the info about commenting in both zones).

You know my views on this so I wont carry on. It is business, every company does it.

[mohib-uddin7986532]

Here i made an already done search of Microsoft for you

http://patft.uspto.gov/neta...

"in= inventor name* Look at those stupid patents. they should not even be allowed to b patented

change it to sony if you want . change in to sony

[mohib-uddin7986532]

THANKS.

Post edit

[mohib-uddin7986532]

DOUPLE POST

should be banned by now

[Caxtus750]

coincidently, that was the working title of the article.

I am following the N4G guidelines and all titles will be the same as the original title.

[PoSTedUP]

this look convenient....

[10YearFlop]

Since the Xbox 360 is flopping worldwide,I expect the Ps3 keypad to be purchased by the Xbots jumping ship

[ravinshield]

wow that keyboard is junk but i guess junk keyboard and junk ps3 does match so good for ps3 fangirls

[xhi4]

has a point.

[Caxtus750]

Why thank you :P

[mohib-uddin7986532]

Chxd

did you know you can comment on the open zone 6 times.

if you want to comment again you can do it there. just so you know

[Ben1054]

i just picked up my controller and checked where my thumbs felt more comfortable.
i cant really put my thumbs where the 360 keyboard is because everybody thumbs can only move a certain amount down and mine can only move a bit because they are stretched too far.
but
where the ps3 keyboard looks like its going to be seems easier to use becuase you are not stretching your thumb away from your fingers, you actually move them closer. it may be a little stretch to reach the top buttons but it seems to be ok.
this is just an educated guess, i haven't actually tried ether

[kwicksandz]

They should have licensed MS's bottom thumbpad. this beast doesnt look ergonomic at all, and making the controller top heavy is a bad idea for extended gaming.

[Sitdown]

You can not be serious.....having both controllers......for me there is no denying that the placement is better on the 360 controller............unless you have really really short thumbs...but even then you have to reach all the way to the top of the ps3 controller. Come on now...are you really being serious and non-bias? Want another example? Look at cell phones...the ones with qwerty keyboards usually have it come out from the bottom. Your opposable thumb has an easier job swiveling below then trying to stretch above.

[gaffyh]

I think if Sony really wanted to, they could have put the chat pad at the botoom (cos it's not that hard to extend the USB connection). The reason they probably didn;t do that is because 1) it would be too similar to the 360 chat pad, and 2) you hold the PS3 controller in a different way to the 360 controller (hence the reason why most 360 owners have no clue how to hold the PS3 controller properly), so the chat pad would actually come in the way.

[Sarick]

These little attachments are for the tiny fingers. Why hasn't logitech updated the netplay controller and made a wireless version. That thing was big bulky ugly and such but when it worked nothing was better for an intergrated keyboard + controller. Since they've been discontinued they're next to impossible to find new.

[cloud360]

PS3 Keypad Copied Xbox 360.

Sony just steals thats all there good at

[ferdus-hutki-shira]

PS3 didnt copy 360 you ass holes!

[PirateThom]

lol.

Anyway, of course it's a gimmick, but the fact you can use a USB keyboard makes it entirely optional, unlike the 360's gimmick of being forced to use one.

[Dr Pepper]

@ PirateThom

You can use a USB Keyboard for messages on the 360 as well. Nobody is forcing 360 users to use the attachable mini-keyboard.

[Codeman420]

o yea thats why MS is using the avatar system, and is basically using a 3d version of the XMB in their new Dashboard update. Why they are putting whole xbox 1 games on live didnt come from sony and nintendo now MS thought of that one. right. Come on.

[PirateThom]

Then I take the back, you are indeed correct. I actually wasn't aware of that.

[RonDeMuerte]

Microsoft's latest E3 conference consisted of announcements that Sony and Nintendo made one or two E3s ago.........Microsoft is the king of copycat!!!...never buying one of their products...it's usually cheaply manufactured and the poor man's version of it.......hey 360 people...don't criticize eyepet or any new and innovative Sony product because Microsoft will probably be announcing the exact same stuff at next year's E3......hahahahahaha

[FURY__UNLEASHED]

Xbox Avatars = Nintendo Miis

New Xbox chat with pics = PS3 pre-existing chat

Xbox new "you're in the movies" with interactive camera = PS3 EyeToy

Xbox Live chat pad copied a PS2 controller

Microsoft's BIG NEWS at E3 was that Xbox is getting a dimbed-down version of a PS3 exclusive

[Lex Luthor]

How retarded can you get?

[pp]

Hahahahahahha that looks so horrendous what was sony thinking off

[RonDeMuerte]

X-bots are hopeless....haha
Microsoft's latest E3 conference consisted of announcements that Sony and Nintendo made one or two E3s ago.........Microsoft is the king of copycat!!!...never buying one of their products...it's usually cheaply manufactured and the poor man's version of it.......hey "Waste of everyone's time" X-bots.....don't criticize Eyepet or any new and innovative Sony product because Microsoft will probably be announcing the exact same stuff at next year's E3......hahahahahaha

@ PP

That little Sony keyboard looks better than any Microsoft product I have ever laid eyes on......from now on every single Xbox or Microsoft product has Too Human and faulty written all over it.....it's tainted.....the richest company in the world keeps getting richer because of idiots like you...that buy useless and overpriced products because you are easily influenced by hype and consistent promotion......

[ferdus-hutki-shira]

which idiot would say ps3 copied 360?

http://forums.n4g.com/fb.as...

PS2 had it

[Caxtus750]

I didny say they copied. I simply implied it followed the 360's. Which is obviously a fact.

[mohib-uddin7986532]

no look here chexd

http://forums.n4g.com/fb.as...

ps2 keypad

[Caxtus750]

That never saw a proper release outside of Japan. It is a different product entirely.

[ferdus-hutki-shira]

so who followed who fa*ot chexd

haha you just made yourself look like an idiot by saying Sony followed MS

Sony said "we lead, we dont follow"

[Caxtus750]

In this generation, Sony DID follow MS. MS released the add-on Chatpad first, simple as. Why deny it? They obviously got the inspiration from the 360, don't be so ignorant to suggest otherwise.

How old are you?

Sony also said, "Go kill yourself!"

are you going to take that as gospel too?

[Tmac]

Chexd, ignorant much?

[mohib-uddin7986532]

http://forums.n4g.com/fb.as...

The above proves MS ones again copies Sony

[InMyOpinion]

Man, you are just sad lol!

[kenshin22up]

This article is stupid, and the chatpad is a gimmick in general. Of all the games I've played online on the 360, BFBC, Halo, Gears, COD4, etc, I have only used the mic, not a stupid chat pad. You'd probably get banned if you keep on sending text messages to people thru out the game and you won't get replies either. So by default, using the chatpad already slows down the flow of the game. The chatpad is for Live messenger, and for text chat in game rooms, just like what this PS3 chatpad is for. The chatpad is not designed to play games while texting because there are no games currently that support such stupid functions beside MMOs and neither consoles got any except for FF11.

[ultimate920]

Also, you don't get banned by sending alot of messages while playing online (only if you threaten or spam the same person).

Some people prefer to text rather than talk in the mic, so this is good for them...

Dude, this is just an option! Not something to become the only option.

[kenshin22up]

What I meant was banned/kicked from the server you're playing on. And even if you prefer to use text rather than mic on the 360, it's still going to disrupt the flow of the game which is the main reason why the writer of this stupid article is criticizing Sony for.

I don't even have a Ps3 and only have a 360 but I don't choose sides and I'm just saying things like they are. If I want to send a message to my friends while I play COD4, I'd have to bring up the guide and scroll all the way to my friend list, and the process isn't a speedy one believe me. And messaging the ppl that are also playing the game in you would be pointless either. They would be too busy killing/hiding/dying to even reply to you (not everyone's 360 controller is equipped with a chatpad you know or would take the time to type a message to you while in-game). So if the writer wants to call the PS3 chatpad a gimmick, might as well call the 360's chatpad a gimmick as well because to me they are both useless in-game.

[ultimate920]

But don't you get that it's just an option!?

Seriously, have you met people that you were playing with send you a message? Not that many, and even if they were, just ignore it dude...

And why would you send a message to your friends while playing online? By the time you do, 3 minutes have passed and you could have made a couple of kills before the end of the game...

[LossTheEarthbreaker]

Stop arguing, ultimate.

[pp]

Which idiot would say they didn't?

[AIi_The_Brit]

where all copy whore's get over it

would xbox even BE if it wasnt for the playstation? nope

_____________________________ ____________________

and its about practicality, where the f*ck else is it suppose to go? it has to be on top

regardless il be getting one for Home

If not i could always pick up a wireless bluetooth keyboard

ahhhh the PS3 you have so many features

[Caxtus750]

well said 5.1. (at least to some of your points).

I dont care if that is the only available place for it. If the only available place for the chatpad was on the disc tray would that be an excuse?

EDIT: It has been a long day. Thanks for pointing out my typo 5.3

[zo6_lover27]

Your 5.2 0_o

EDIT

He fixed it
:)

[Codeman420]

um from what ive seen you dont have to move you whole and up to type unless you have really really tiny hand you should be able to still move your thumbs up instead of down to type. I think the mouse idea is kool, but wont get used like they might want it to be used. i mean instead of plugging a mouce into your ps3 and using up another USB port you can put it into the controller. its really saving space thats all.

[rockleex]

Seems like whoever wrote that article doesn't have a real PS3 controller to compare the image to.

From my comparison, the keypad is small enough so that I can just move my thumbs up a little to type. Probably about the same amount of movement needed for the 360 Keypad, but upwards instead.

So really, what's the difference? Upwards movement instead of downwards, and touchpad.

Much better than the 360's version in my opinion.

Plus, imagine if some games took advantage of the touchpad. DS-like games on PS3? Integrate it with PSEye and SIXAXIS? The possibilities are endless.

[poopsack]

I questioned why it was up there but now I see its because of the mouse, you can use that pad with only one hand while gripping the controller with another, I think the mouse being there is just cool. Now we're in a world were more features is a bad thing. apparently.

[ape007]

guys a good idea is a good idea and everyone is gonna copy the other

but hey,first trophies,now this? a bit more creative sony

[Mr_Showtime1]

What about Home and EyePet? does that do it for you?

[GiantEnemyCrab]

Home = Second Life

Eyepet = Nintendogs

Well, so I heard.. ;)

[kazuma]

new 360 dashboard = cross between xmb, mii's and old dashboard

you see, it goes both ways

[Shadow Man]

Ps3s xmb= Windows media Center

you see, it goes both ways

[kazuma]

it doesn't make it less worthy, mind u.

u see, all 3 major companies are ripping each other apart. that's the way the industry works, and not only the videogaming industry, even movies, cars, music, u name it.
just don't go blaming sony or nintendo or microsoft as the only guys doing it.

one guy finds the next big thing, everyone jumps on board. some do it better, some don't. that's life.

[ape007]

you got it

+bubbles

[Oner]

Windows media Center = Sony's PS2 - PSX Hard Drive based TiVo like console/multimedia system

Proof = http://uk.youtube.com/watch...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wik...

This is too easy.

[Sitdown]

Sony's PS2 - PSX Hard Drive based TiVo like console/multimedia system=Windows Start Menu

This is easy..

[Oner]

*Facepalm* those 2 are nothing alike...way to go.

[LossTheEarthbreaker]

You fail. You don't see any similarities?

I have ape007 ignored usually, but he actually said something comprehendable.

[Oner]

My reply was towards Sitdown's totally off reply comment to my earlier comment...reading comprehension works, look into it.

[Blackcanary]

Second Life = Sims

Nintendogs = Catz and Dogz which was an old PC which was around when i was 12.

And the Chatpad wasn't MS own idea because the PS2 had one which people used when FF 11 first came out and probaberly before that to.

Which shows that people like to copy people and inprove on ideas to make them better for everyone to enjoy.

Is that so hard to see.

[Blackcanary]

Catz and Dogz which was an old PC Game.

[Sitdown]

How was I off?

[kazuma]

in need of some hits on ur site?

on-topic: these things are just weird, they might have a market for it, but i am in no way interested in attaching a "keyboard" to my 360 gamepad, dualshock 3 or wiimote for that matter. might as well release a themed keyboard and mouse wired or not that matches the console. that's what i think.

[Baka-akaB]

LOl funny article since both arent good so much when in the heat of a game . Both are just small keyboard (and mouse now) and an extra ..... no one is playing at much ease when texting with the MS keyboard neither ...

both just beat having a big keyboard around , with many users in their living room and not their bedroom .

[DevastationEve]

Whoever thinks that everybody is just copying off of each other, think about it: that's how some of the better innovations stay in the industry. They get widely accepted and viewed as what to shoot for when designing something similar, or something based off the original idea.

Gaming is for the future, driven by progression as determined by customer feed-back and good analysis of the customers you intend to serve, as well as of the market you intend to penetrate.

[treereet]

Where Sony got it so right is you can use any cheapo keyboard mouse with your PS3. I guess Microsoft got that so wrong?

Who cares if it's on the top? Who uses their freaking thumbs for the 360 one? Nobody. It's faster and easier to use your index finger.

Not to mention, I don't even thing the PS3 keypad needs to be plugged into the top of the controller, it's a standalone bluetooth device.

[DevastationEve]

360 has usb ports too, and supports keyboards for use with chats as well. But the mini one that attaches to the controller is a good idea. Now, all we need is some serious DJ Spidey fingers! Seriously, it's going to be silly one day.

Just use the mic headest to communicate, friggin hell people!

[treereet]

Huh, I didn't know you could use a usb keyboard. I guess I've never really tried it because I always heard you needed an adapter.

Just for the record I do think the chat pad attachments are stupid. Then again I don't play much online or chat much on consoles.

[JayD-1K]

using your index fingers instead of your thumbs make sense! how many people do you see hen pecking at a regular keyboard? (any body that doesn't know how to type using all of their fingers)

using this while i'm surfing the net on the PS3, would mean i wouldn't have to have a "bulky" K/M in my entertainment room!

[Knightofelemia]

I'd rather use a keyboard and mouse for the ps3 I mean that new chat pad is goofy looking, don't get me wrong its a nice concept and a good idea. But i would have redesigned it to plug via the mini usb port oin the controller to sit on the bottom by your hands. And there are ways to get around patents.

[DevastationEve]

THERE'S and idea! Have it connect through the mini USB port. Someone let Sony in on this!

@ below

I was think maybe more like a cable with enough slack that it can be spaced maybe a few inches to at MOST a foot. Or, even better build bluetooth into the controller itself (is it there already?) and have the device communicate that way.

The possibilities are friggin endless, they just need to launch off of the drawing board.

[ultimate920]

You then have to connect it through the USB, they might not have added the rechargable battery in the first place, more battery consumption

Besides you can just use it separate from the controller and then use it wirelessly, but it's just an option, remember that...

[DailyAddict]

seriously... ok, first off, the Mini USB being at the top or bottom of the controller has nothing to do with the design at all. For starters, notice that the PS3 keypad sits over the center portion of the controller entirely. I'm sure it wouldn't have been to reverse engineer the keybad to be placed at the bottom of the keypad and have the top part connect to the Mini USB. However, this was more of a design choice by Sony on purpose I'm sure so as not look like the 360 one.

Second of all, the PS3 now has 3 options for chatting with friends (do people even type of these consoles anyway) or inputting your name/details into all these games (I'm betting this is what most people use anyway since it makes more sense to just, I don't know, talk to your friends). These three options include a nice little PS3 attachment, a USB keyboard or a wireless Bluetooth keyboard.

So, wtf are you all crying about? At least for PS3 you're not forced into buying overly expensive attachments. Most of the crap that you can connect to your PC can be used on your PS3 and for MS EVERYTHING is an overpriced attachment ($100 wifi, $200 120gb HD, etc.).

So stfu please and learn to read between the lines.

[DevastationEve]

I bought a 360 Premium when it came out and sure having to look at those prices for an optional 120 gb makes ME want to punch a baby too. So, fvck it! I'm buying an Elite later on this year anyway. And besides, anyone with Media Center can trim the need for more space by keeping all of their media on a central pc that shares its media wired or wifi.

I actually have my 360 (LAN), my desktop(LAN), my notebook(Wifi), and my Zune 80(Wifi) sharing that network. PS3 owners can accomplish nearly the same thing with their consoles, so I'm sure that not everyone should really bother buying an upgrade for their HDDs. Just learn to network, make it WORK for you!

[GiantEnemyCrab]

You do know that the 360 will accept many different off the shelf USB keyboards don't you?

So all your crying about MS forcing you to buy an expensive peripheral is not applicable. The chatpad from MS is like $15 usd so I wouldn't call that gouging.

[Time_Is_On_My_Side]

He's refering to the whole picture not just the chatpad; like for example:

I can buy a 350Gb 2.1 SATA HD (Hard Drive) for the same price or less than the 120GB HD for the XBOX 360 ($199.99).

[Solid_Snake666]

really so your saying every xbox comes with Wifi HDMI and a hard drive? yea i think all that you have to buy seperate? even the wii has wi fi this is a joke

[DailyAddict]

In GENERAL, you're forced to buying overpriced accessories for the 360 and they limit you on the options for using your own. On that one guy's note, for $109.99 you can get a 320GB HDD for your PS3 and it's a Western Digital Raptor; pretty solid HDD. Or, for $199.99 I can get an overpriced 120GB HDD for my 360. It's ridiculous. And $99.99 for a Wi-Fi adapter? Are you freaking kidding me?

So, is this chatpad for the PS3 the greatest accessory? No, it's not. Will people get it? Yea, I'm sure they will. Sure, you can use a USB keyboard or Bluetooth keyboard with your PS3, but some people don't want to keep all those accessories around their couch. And the argument about having to move your hands up a few itches is a pretty lame one at that because most people will be using this just for sending messages and it won't matter that they have to move their hands up from the controller a bit since they aren't exactly playing a game at the same time.

This whole article is just taking a shot at something that doesn't even matter. I don't about you, but when I'm actually playing a game, I talk to people. When i'm not playing a game I might drop someone a message here or there and for that it doesn't matter that you have to move your hands up the controller to chat with people.

N4G is really sad nowadays because all it has become is just a cheap, free way for people to get fast traffic. Even if you look at the articles it's nothing but a giant console debate.

For example:
If I post a story today about how great PS3 is, someone 2 minutes later will have written an article about how crappy PS3.

If I say that Gears of War 2 rocks, 2 minutes later someone will write an article about why it's overhyped.

This site is really becoming a joke.

[Cajun Chicken]

If you type in enough while browsing the internet, naming game folders or IM'ing people.
You can type a sentence just by pressing the X button, just like that, no joke. The built in predicable text dictionary is far better than I have witnessed and used on any technology.

This really isn't needed unless people who already own a 360 and buying a PS3 are encountering nasty flashbacks whilst messaging during sessions.

[na2ru1]

the predictive msg is very handy

[air1]

hey, it almost looks like the 360 pad only on top. funny....

[GiantEnemyCrab]

Hrm.. At least if you are going to rip-off MS make it as nice and ergonomic as the 360 chatpad.

[ferdus-hutki-shira]

http://forums.n4g.com/fb.as...

so who copied who?

quick change your post before you make yourself look like a fool

[air1]

i know that thing looks weird.. it looks like it wraps around the front then goes under like a thong, lmfao..

i love when my girl wears thongs. so sexy

[Cajun Chicken]

Ripped off in this case, but I must point out that a controller for the PS2 was in built with a keyboard and sold in the UK...even though there was no real use for the keyboard back then. MS simply took inspiration and Sony followed suit seeing they did it previously anyway.
No, I don't get it either.
PS2 controller, keyboard, hardly any games that used keyboard, odd.

[Mr_Showtime1]

The picture has been edited to removed what was written at the bottom of the offcial Sony picture where it states:

"This is a prototype. Design and specifications are subject to change without notice."

And on the topic of copying Microsoft, I suppose you could look at it that way, or you could look at it like, before 2.4, there was no real need for a keypad to type messages quicker, now that you can send messages during games, your going to want to do it quicker, it reflects how MS didn't release thier chatpad until the update which brought the messenger along.

[ErcsYou]

Im gettin one... why you ask? Well for one i'm a PS3 whore, i want everything for my PS3. I already have a keyboard so i don't need it but it might come in handy some day. I think it might make my controller a little to heavy but it will work wonders on my extra sixaxis. Its better then the one i saw at gamestop, i think it was made by mad catz or something.

I actually don't mind having to move my hand position to type unlike the author of this story. Its easier then setting down the controller and pulling out the keyboard drawer... A very weak argument.

[kenshin329]

am i the only one who is interested this keypad?

[poopsack]

nope, count me in. :D

[juuken]

Me too.

[zer0man1]

totally

[kewlkat007]

Accept it..

Bring it on Sony, though I would rather have that pad at the bottom. That way you can game and type without interference.

Maybe one day MS will have a mouse and keyboard...

Why make a big deal about a chatpad? Would of been nice if Sony included headsets.

[themyk]

why would the 360 need a mouse pad. you can't surf the web with it.

[mgbass13]

It's just another optional attachment for those who might want one. This article is pure flamebait in disguise. I mean really...criticizing an attachable chat pad? How ergonomic and feature packed do you want it? IT'S A F%$CKING CHAT PAD!

[kspraydad]

...which these guys have not...they should stfu imo.

Do a proper evaluation when it comes out.

[Time_Is_On_My_Side]

I see the PlayStation 3 key-pad being used more than the XBOX 360 key-pad because simply the support. In almost every game on the PlayStation 3 supports an on-screen keyboard; how often is this allowed in XBOX 360 games?

With the article it makes sense to think that way but I'll be waiting until everything is official/released. Sony usually makes better business decisions than Microsoft in my opinion. Plus I usually have a mic to communicate and just used my PC mic. What I'm really waiting for is the SOCOM: Confrontation Sony official headset that will be bundled/sold separately is my main concern.

[GiantEnemyCrab]

You can bring up a keypad on the 360 in anything that requires a text input.

Off topic:

http://www.joystiq.com/2007...

Isn't this basically the same thing except it uses a USB dongle?

[Time_Is_On_My_Side]

I'm talking about in-game text chat like in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. You can text chat to your whole team or to everyone and appears at the bottom of the screen.

The link you have is tha same thing the only difference is that this is a first party product made by the people who made the PlayStation 3.

[JD_Shadow]

Do you seriously try to find ANY counterargument you can to make the 360 look like it's on top when you post, or do you just hope that something sticks to the wall?

Seriously, I've yet to see you make an unbiased argument about ANYTHING unless you can somehow make it look like the 360 never has any faults!

[Solid_Snake666]

he talks so much trash because hes got too much time in his hands..well what is someone to do when the xbox is getting repeaired

[air1]

lmfao at the link.. are you for real? would you like for sony to come out with a pad like that?

when are you ppl gana realize it's not who makes it first now a day's it's, who makes it better.

get real....

@cajun

you do know sony didn't actualy make that right? maybe that's why it sais samy and not sony?

[zo6_lover27]

What about this one? Its not made by Sony but it was an official controller.

Sony didn't copy M$, M$ didn't copy Sony, the whole argument is stupid.

EDIT

Its not showing up

Now it is

http://ecx.images-amazon.co...

And there's also this.
http://img.inkfrog.com/pix/...

[PeterGriffinSays]

I can't front, I love the PS3, but man, the article made a lot of good points that I didn't realize.

[rosebowl23]

This article sucks and barely makes a point. It is a small accessory which you don't need at all, but some people might like to buy. So how exactly is it a gimmick? That's like saying a headset is a gimmick, or the Remote control for video playback is a gimmick. It doesn't make sense. Some people might like to have it, and that's all.

The one good point he makes is that the 360's is easier to use because you just have to slip your thumb off the analog stick to type. But that's it. The PS3's has more features and is just as comfortable to hold and type because you will be able to grip the top half of the controller+accessory with both hands. You will not need to hold the controller with one hand and type with the other like he says in the article. The guy is mentally disabled if he thinks this.

In the end, the 360s keypad is a bit more convenient, but honestly how much typing do you need to do in games that you need to have instant access to the keypad at all times?

[PeterGriffinSays]

That doesn't change the fact that 360's Messenger pad is placed in a better, more natural spot for the fingers to type with ease.

[u are my game slaves]

if this is a gimmick what is the 360 version of singstar and there version of wii avatar called -_-

[rosebowl23]

a tiny accessary that isnt necessary which some people might like to buy WHAT A GIMICK AM I RITE GUYZ?

WIFI ADAPTER FOR 360, A GIMICK RIGHT? VOICE HEADSET A GIMMICK RIGHT GUYS? REMOTE CONTROL FOR VIDEO PLAY BACK!?!?!? A GIMMICK!?!?!?

stop with the sensational headlines you dont even make sense.

[nifty_baby]

100% agree with you

[air1]

i agree.. but the 360's still looks better and it came out first i know that if it was the other way around sony fanatics would cry how micro isn't inovative.

@ ffx

hell yea it's good. keyboard you gata put the controler down to type this pad you dont i just think it would be better in the bottom but hey i never tried it on top so who knows

[Cajun Chicken]

Net Yaroze
Microsoft XNA

Everyone happy?

[zo6_lover27]

IMO Its better at the top, but I have large hands so its MUCH easier for me to get to the top of the controller than the bottom

[Expy]

This design is ergonomically correct, the way the thumbs are positioned on the gamepad (controller) they are pointing upwards. If you simulate trying to type with your thumbs downwards versus upwards you'll find you have a more difficult time doing so.

Also, the top of the controller is angled straight versus the bottom which is angled downwards which would've rendered a downward keyboard pretty uncomfortable and unusable.

Personally, I would prefer the keyboard/pointing device to be on the top of the controller versus the bottom, it seems more correct than if it were at the bottom. On top of that, it is detachable and always an option.

[kewlkat007]

Unless your talking about your preference....but we all tend to type downwards.

90% of Mobile Chat Devices proves that.

Expy - "This design is ergonomically correct, the way the thumbs are positioned on the gamepad (controller) they are pointing upwards. If you simulate trying to type with your thumbs downwards versus upwards you'll find you have a more difficult time doing so."

You can't a hardly type and game at the same type with this chatpad unless u have super long thumbs.

[Expy]

Because the screen you're viewing is ON TOP. On top of that, your hand is directly behind the keypad on a cellphone, thus your thumbs are more or less level with the keypad, and the most comfortable keys to press are the ones in the middle and at the top, the bottom ones are least comfortable to press; imagine having the OK and CANCEL buttons at the bottom. Who the hell games and types AT THE SAME TIME, I can see someone quick messaging during gameplay, but typing and playing? Come on now.

[kenshin22up]

lol kewlkat self owned himself..telling others to do research when citing personal opinion ftl, and what expy said makes way more sense than you

[JD_Shadow]

You...DO realize that most cell phones with that feature (besides Blackberrys) have a keypad that comes out of the SIDE of the phone and is SIDEWAYS, right? This means that in order to use it, you would have to turn your phone sideways and then hold the phone by the pad,...WITH THE THUMBS POINTING UPWARD!!

Thought I'd let you in on that.

[Oner]

Grab a PS3 controller and motion how the keyboard attachment would work...when I first saw it I thought "why didn't they put it on the bottom of the controller" until I grabbed my DS3 and tried it out. Surprisingly it feels better and falls in line with what Expy states. Try it out and see, though it ends up being about preference anyway.

[kewlkat007]

when you do open up the phone and hold it, it's very similar when you actually hold a controller and having the keypad at the bottom. That was my point.

Yes because of the screen you would never see the keypad at the top. That is just not natural. Try holding a PDA type phone that is held in the wide position. Canybar type phones are slim, so your whole hand does not really wrap around it as it would to a Keyboard sliders your talking about. When the keys slide out to the side, like you state, the orientation of the phone changes and is held like I stated.

Anyhow some will say there is a lot of preference to it but we have always seen keys towards the bottom, which seems to make sense looking at most devices.

Expy - "Who the hell games and types AT THE SAME TIME"

Don't take it so literal, seems like they are introducing a lot more MMOs and RTS's on consoles these days and I'm pretty sure these keypads will be used for commands, similar to a PC with these games, so that's what I mean.

[thehitman]

There was already a 3rd party version of this out for more than a YEAR!!!. Now Sony makes their own and they copying. Grow up people its a keypad.

[FFXI101]

Is it easier to use or not? I don't know, cause I have a USB keyboard and a bluetooth keyboard, so I probably won't get it. But if you ask me how it looks...it looks 10times better than the 360(all 360 accessories, systems have cheap plastic looking and tend to break a lot)

[zo6_lover27]

It might be easier to use, you don't have to hold the controller and have a keyboard in your lap at the same time.

[Isaac]

After all, it is the only selling point of this article.

[juuken]

Um...if you don't want to use it, you don't have to buy it?
I wouldn't go so far as to call this a gimmick when...I don't know it was just introduced?

[Knightofelemia]

The microsoft chat pad is friggin useless, people only use it if they chat with friends or msn via xbox live. The sony pad would be used more cause sony has the web surfing capability like a pc as with xbox you do not. Sony should sit down actually see how messed up this design is. I am sure with new dual shock 3 controllers coming out there batteries can handle a redesigned chat pad that plugs in via the mini usb port ontop of the remote and bring it so it clips to the bottom of the controller by your hands. If anything all sony has to do is relase more firmware to correct the mistake like they always do. The microsoft chatpad drains battery life to when u have it plugged in via the headphone jack on the conrtoller. Like some people say you do have the option of buying a usb keyboard and mouse. This thing is a nice idea but it has been braught out to late when they things hit the shelves people will buy them cause it is a new toy. But when people buy them and a new shipment comes in howlong will these things sit on store shelves before they sell down again a month or half a year. If sony does make these things I am not buying it save the cash and use a keyboard and a mouse. My chatpad for my 360 sits more than it used to me that was a waste of money.

[GameDev]

IM NOT FORCED TO BUY SONYS PRODUCT

I have a dozen USB keyboards around the house i can plug in and use RIGHT AWAY.

MS and their xbutts get OWNED everytime.

[zo6_lover27]

I was going to say your not forced to buy M$ product either but I get what your saying.

With the ps3, you can get keyboards from all sorts of different companies, plus, they're all also compatible with your computer.

But with the 360,you can only get it from M$, this means zero competition which in turn means M$ can charge virtually whatever they want, and, its proprietary, you can't use it with anything but the 360(this is true of all 360 accessories, save a few)

[firebat]

the guy at the press conference didn't even know how to put on that horrendous object

[Crazyglues]

I don't know what they where thinking, it's not even good to use like that...

It would have just been better if they put it below like Microsoft's... what a big mistake...

They can count me out on buying that thing.

[tangerine]

That's because you don't own a ps3 and you don't have the option on your pile of sh1t 360 to get any other device than a crappy M$ proprietary model.
Keep up you fifty dupe accounts loser so as to keep those bubbles.

[Old Snake]

IT IS THE SAME DAMN THING AS THE 360 PAD!!!! YET NO ONE CALLED THAT A GIMMICK! BULLSH!T PRESS, IT IS SOMETHING THAT THE PS3 NEEDED HOW IS THIS A GIMMICK??

[juuken]

It's just another anti-PS3 article yet again. I think the keypad looks interesting.

[mirroredderorrim]

I like the design because it is "REMOVABLE". Kiss my ass if you don't like my opinion. Also, PM me if you don't like my opinion, so I can know to let the hair on my ass grow long before kissing it. :D

[God of Gaming]

Are you saying the 360 chat pad can not be removed? If so then your wrong.... and the 360 chat pad comes with a new mic in every package.

Anyways.. not sure what your point is. I remove my 360 one all the time during certain games.

[DFresh]

Looks really sweet but I'm fine typing and clicking the letters to get my point across.
None the less a good option to add if you want to.

[JD_Shadow]

...is VERY, VERY anti-PS3, pro-Microsoft, and, like GameDaily, they seem to be really not be in a hurry to hide that point.

I hope that tells you about a possible agenda behind this article. If MS put theirs on the top like this or made it small (which it is), do you think Binge Gamer would be b!tching?

[LossTheEarthbreaker]

Binge or brutal?

I'm confused.

I'm willing to take your word for both of them. :p

[JD_Shadow]

Oops...BrutalGamer...Didn't see that.

Same abbreviation, same starting letter, similar number of letters....wow, I can see where I got confused. ><

[Adamalicious]

This article Fails. The writer hasn't used the keyboard so how does he know how good or lame it is? Just flame bait trying to drum up some traffic.

[dcypha]

both systems chatpads suck until they are used for games. That is why pc gamers are always talking shiznit. They can use keyboards as well as controllers in their games why can't console gamers. The chatpads on either system serve no real purpose, if you have money to buy a chatpad, then you can buy a headset! these types of add-ons defeat their own purpose. it is kinda like the idiots that text on phones for hours for something they could've said to someone in a 2 minute phone call.

[LossTheEarthbreaker]

I f'ing hate text messages for that very reason.

At least the PS3 pad can be used to surf the net, unlike 360, but that doesn't change the fact that I'd pref a keyboard and a mouse for both. If I ever even have an urge to use either. Maybe if I'm on some trip with only my PS3...

[Makidian]

I've gotten pretty fast with just my controller but I don't see the porblem with this attachment. My thumbs are long enough to reach the keypad without shifting my hands, why that would even matter is beyond me because you have stop playing to send a message.

[ThaTeflonDon]

I'll just stick to my MediaBoard by Logitech ...found it at Walmart on clearance for $25

http://reviews.cnet.com/key...

[Pika-pie]

Yeah the 360 one is more convenient, but I dont care, I dont own one for my 360 because I dont use messenger on it (why would i when i have a pc) and I dont online game on the 360 (free on PS3) :)

We get some form of it on the PS3 and it will be extremly useful. I will deffinatly be getting it for browsing, & writing quick e-mails. Online gaming I normally use a headset.

[xxBATTLECATxx]

ill show you a gimmick

did everyone forget about the motion controller newton already?

[InMyOpinion]

Lots of lame excuses + blatant lying going on in here =)

[themyk]

who needs to use it while they are playing games. anyways. i'm sure it's going to be mainly used for web surfing and sending messages through the e mail system. so who cares if it's on the top or bottom.

i'm not going to start text chatting with somebody in the middle of my gaming. so who cares how close to the sticks it is.

so even though this one offers way more functionality than the 360s it fails because it's on the top of the controller........... uh yeah.

[Egzekutor]

Chexd its your opinion and i got no problem with that.
But dont forget that PS3 pad is much smaller than the 360 controller and it will not be a problem reaching to the chat pad.

People these days are upset with everything.. this small keyboard isnt even released yet, no one has tried it and he says its a fuking gimmick.

SONY isnt MS that it will copy everything from their competitors..

[ReBurn]

The stuff that fanboys argue over. Nobody copied anyone with this idea. Qwerty keyboard addons have been around for a long time. It's not like either Microsoft or Sony invented them.

[Karum]

I have a keypad such as this for my PS3 controller. It's almost a year or so old now, perhaps more I'm not exactly sure (can't be bothered to check my order history on play.com) and is made by MadCatz I believe. It attaches on the top of the PS3 controller just like Sony's upcoming device. What I can tell you is that the positioning of it is just fine. It's not uncomfortable or a stretch to use it and it won't bother you at all unless you are incredibly and unreasonably fussy.

Sony's device looks to be an improvement on the device I have had for seemingly so long now and depending on the price when released I will definitely consider getting the Sony one simply because it is Bluetooth where as the MadCatz one is not and the Sony one is rechatgeable whereas the MadCatz one is not.

You people complaining and commenting about it's positioning, unless you have actually tried the device really don't know what you're talking about or are just so incredibly fussy you probably suffer from some degree of OCD. I have a device like this as do a few friends, no complaints whatsoever on how it is positioned.

Oh and one more point, the MadCatz version of this device I have is very light, it doesn't make the controller top heavy by any means. I'd imagine Sony will have achieved a similar weight as it in order to achieve a balanced feel when it is attached.

[killcycle]

my madcatz one charger via usb

[tangerine]

I think it looks good. I'm getting one.

[ScottEFresh]

Wireless keyboard. That's all I'm going to say.

[Citizen Cook]

SONY crack me up! When are they gonna learn and realize that a 3 gen old pad just doesn't cut it anymore. I complete redesign is required in order to fix basic issues with analogue placement and now chatpad orientation.

[Solid_Snake666]

STFU go make more accounts

[TheDeadMetalhead]

We'll just have to see, now won't we?

[NiteWarrior]

oh come on stop hating. The whole purpose of this is to text quicker which is clearly faster then using the sixaxis and the in-game keyboard.

Also the fact that you need to move your hand up to type insted of just moving your thumbs is a ridiculous arguement. I think its safe to say that you are not going to be using ur keyboard in the middle of an FPS battle agianst 3 other guys. "Oh they are rushing at me!, wait let me send a quick text to my buddy telling him im too busy to join his game." So the amount of time it takes to move your hand upwards insted of moving ur thumbs downward wont make a difference b/c you will be texting when you are free from any intense gameplay. I think it looks awesome and i want one.

[Cynical-Gamerzus]

Lets just stick to the BLue tooth Keyboard folks!!!!

This pad Idea is not cool it never will be !!!
Chatting is for homos so lets play games and that that!!

[GUNS N SWORDS]

"hmph" very comfortable, lol.

i think they should just stick to a usb setup, it isn't portable but if you want to type you can do it without hurting your thumbs.

[Rusted]

Jesus "#%/@ Christ just move a LITTLE more up your hand and you can type in the freaking keypad:

"this keypad will destroy our hands! boo hoo!!"

bunch of lazy pansies, no wonder why so many fat people around.

[God of Gaming]

Im glad its getting one.. I use my 360 one all the time. BUT.. do any of you use the MSN features of the chat pad on the 360? You can have multiple IM conversations going on at any time.. it pops up quickly this little gray box, you can type and hit enter in a split second. This is how my friends and I communicate.. you do not have to bring up the blade. So anyone that has not seen this and say its not practical in game needs to check it out. That feature along with backlight are key.. and it does not sound like the sony version will have back lit buttons.

[killcycle]

I have the madcatz thumb pad and the xbox one dont come close!!!!!!!!

seriously guys i aint just talking crap its so much better having it at the top and heres why!

putting it at the bottom alters how you hold your pad.
alot of people hold their pads different
(my bro holds it in an insane way) but i need to have the end of my fingers right underneath going around the two side holders of the controller.

Its simple moving your hand to the top and is very easy plus it never gets in the way.

I personally think that this pad looks like **** thanks to the sides going too close to the dpad and x buttons but i've had my matcatz one for ages and it lasts over a month without charging (via usb).

Having the Thumb pad on top is alot better then the bottom and you'll know what i mean if you have both.

[RAM MAGNUMS]

I'm getting it.
I don't care if its hard to use which I doubt that it is but I've been
Waiting on this for a while.
next, I would like some official chat headphones with 7.1 true Dolby sound.
turtle beach I'm looking at you!

[Blackcanary]

Sony made this Keypad or Chatpad what ever u wanna call it to be used with Home. Because in home u will be talking alot when ur not playing ur games and u just wanna chill in ur Summer House with ur friends on the PSN. This has already been done way before MS did one it was done for the PS2.

[MIAMIFROST]

No but seriously. I think the keypad on top makes more sense. You dont type more than you game. So why would you want it in the way of your analog controls. ..IDK, whatever, Ijust got back from 2 for 1's at Chilis and I really dont care.

PS3 FTW !!!

oops, this was meant for the OPEN ZONE. N4G please don't put your g@y little restritions. Im copying the comment to OPEN ZONE right now.

[MIAMIFROST]

2 for 1 !!!

[Weed]

Damn that thing is ugly... I would just get a keyboard. =/

[PS3Freak]

my question is how will you use the TriggerS?

[BrotherNick]

Gimmick is one of those words that are tossed around a lot...It's good that maybe you don't want to talk but type, or you're a mute.

[Horny Melon]

Sony should just have included it in the dual shock 3.

[Voiceofreason]

Oh well another useless add on that Sony copied and will force others to buy it. Hey if you fanboys can add every Wii accessory up as must buy then why cant others do the same? I mean you guys already were forced to pay 130.00 for controllers for the PS3. 60 for Sixaxis then another 60 for DS. All it added was rumble but cost you the price of a whole new controller.
Oh no another negative Sony comment.. I'm sure the Sony fanboys that mod here will be laong any second to make sure its deleted. This site is such BS. Anything negative to Sony =ban but anything negative to Nintendo or MS is welcome in the gamer zone..

[Blackcanary]

Sony ant forcing u to buy anything to the point where u can use a Blue Tooth Keyboard or a USB Keyboard second thing is before MS made a Stupid keypad there was one all ready out for the PS2.
Get ur facts right. Like I've said before people take idea and improve on them and make them batter its how the game is played.

and this part isn't aimed at you Voice

You people are so damn the way u on with this fan boy crap is like ur best friends with MS if one of ur guys died MS wouldn't even know or care they just see it as one less fan baby talking crap.

You stupid Loyalty makes me laugh

[DoctorXpro]

Horny Melon

32 - That thing is horrendous.
Sony should just have included it in the dual shock 3.

I agree, looks sh1t.

[pain777pas]

Do these journalist not realise that noone cares about such trivial matters! Really WHO CARES WHERE THE PAD IS PLACED! IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT DON'T BUY IT! SERIOUSLY!

[btkadams]

obviously it would be a bit easier to use on the bottom of the controller, but its not a big deal for it to be at the top... thats the only place they could put it anyways because the usb port is up there. top or bottom, it doesnt change the fact that a full keyboard is better. i dont think id buy it either way, unless the price is really low.

[agentace]

..i like the idea of having on top then i can just use the fingers i would use to type on a ormal keyboard.......but anyway i would just get a real mouse and keyboard in the 1st place lol

[PimplePopperMD]

shouldve been UNDER the controller.

what a dumb idea. if you wanna message, use a messaging program.

[vigeoman]

how would you stand playing with that hunk of crap

[vigeoman]

they should have just made a keyboard attach ment through a usb port

[Matpan]

Yup, kinda sucks compared to MS´s approach to the same concept. You gotta give it to MS here.

[Knightofelemia]

For sony to make this thing is a loss of money this little add on probably cost more than a keyboard and a mouse. Cost of materials cost of labor and shipment, and for it to sit on store shelves. When a cutomers goes into a store to try and find an easy add on they look at this goofy thing see the price and go holy s**t i am paying this price for this then he walks down the computer isle and what does he see a keyboard and a mouse for half the price who wins the customer cause of sonys price for the goofiest add on every. This add on is nothing more but a over priced paper wieght with the words sony on it .

[na2ru1]

is the best out there. it suggests the next possible few words after you typed a word. it remembers every slang you type in and it auto spaces if you use predictive.

360 on the other hand forces u to use analoge or spend money. d pad REALLLLLYYYY fustrating. Left is the worst d

[enjoi187]

it obviously sucks...let alone just use chat instead of text...its faster...anyways this keypad still sucks

[mcm]

the xmb was developed before Windows Media Center. Sorry dude.

[dirtrider]

this thing looks stupid, and isnt needed since ps3 supports keyboards. am i the only one that doesnt mind typin with the onscreen keyboard?

[Arkem]

Wow, that sure is an abomination! Lots of really small buttons over the controller itself.. :| Well I don't want to mock it but it just isn't for me.