PS3 Keypad, USB Charger Shipping

Sony is shipping two new accessories aimed at the PlayStation gamer. The wireless keypad accessory for the PlayStation 3 should be hitting store shelves sometime next week for $49.99.

While the PlayStation 3 will work with USB and Bluetooth keyboards, sometimes a full 101-key setup isn’t the best for gaming on the couch. Enter Sony’s wireless keypad accessory that latches onto the Sixaxis or DualShock 3 controllers for QWERTY text entry.

Unlike the Xbox 360’s keypad, the one for PS3 sits on top of the controller rather than under it. Sony’s device also includes a touch-sensitive feature that will sense your finger gliding over the keys, making it act like a touchpad for web browsing.

In response to aftermarket USB controller chargers, Sony is also releasing a charging kit of its own. The $24.99 AC adaptor hardware provides two USB ports for charging purposes without requiring the PS3 to be powered on. The AC Adaptor can simultaneously charge two compatible hardware devices, such as PS3 controllers, the wireless keypad, Bluetooth headset, and even the PSP-2000 and PSP-3000.