Chatpad impressions

I had a little bit of time to mess around with the Chatpad. First I have to say that this must have been planned from the beginning because it fits so well. At first, it looks like it isn't going to fit, but when you push a little bit harder it snaps right in place. There is a pass-through for the headset and it comes with a new headset that has a clip-on control for volume. The pad itself is nicely spaced and well thought out. It is pretty easy to type with your thumbs. It's also backlit which is VERY nice. The light goes off after a few seconds of not being used to preserve battery life. I don't see a huge amount of application for the device yet. It will be nice for things like naming items in Oblivion or any other time you want to add text. It also gives the controller a nice weight and feel. I think I will keep it attached all the time. Hopefully there will be more games that come out that take advantage of it, like MMOs. I guess we will have to wait and see.

New Chatpad available.

I picked up one of these bad boys today. I will put up some impressions this weekend when I have a chance to try it out. Here is a blurb about it and some features:

Chatting with friends and family on Xbox LIVE® and Windows-based PCs is easy using the Xbox 360 Messenger Kit. This device easily connects to any Xbox 360 controller and provides easy to use chat capabilities while maintaining gameplay functionality in one easy-to-hold device. The Messenger Kit includes a Chatpad and Xbox 360 Headset.

Features

• Chat on Xbox LIVE with ease featuring dedicated keys to letters and characters.
• Don't hamper your style—the Xbox 360 Chatpad attaches seamlessly to your Xbox 360 Controller.
• Backlit buttons allow you to accurately type words even in dimly lit environments.
• Messenger Kit includes the Xbox 360 Wired Headset for the ultimate communication bundle.