May 23, 2011

The PS3 Remotext by Hyperkin

by yogesh

After the PlayStation Network outage fiasco, Sony needs all the help they can get, in order gain back customer interest. So is the PS3 Remotext what the doctor ordered? This hybrid controller dubbed the “Remotext” by Hyperkin, is a alternative to the wireless keypad attachment offered by Sony since late 2008. In addition to the PS3 controller and the QWERTY keypad, it features a dedicated DVD/Blu-ray remote to control the playback of DVD/Blu-ray movies on a PS3 console. The design looks similar to the PSP with the screen replaced by a full QWERTY keypad and the slide-out remote control.

The Remotext also comes with a rechargeable battery, which can be charged via the USB cable and a receiving dongle for wireless control. The keypad layout is ergonomically better than the wireless keypad offered by Sony. However, the Remotext lacks rear triggers and bluetooth connectivity which could prove its Achilles heel. Hyperkin is certainly headed in the right direction when it comes to making a good hybrid controller, but they are no quite there yet. Rear control triggers and a bluetooth connectivity would make the Remotext a certain win for a PS3 aficionado. There is no word on pricing or availability and the Remotext will be showcased at E3. Hopefully by then, Hyperkin can add the missing features to make the Remotext a formidable opponent to the DualShock 3.
[Engadget]