You're right about MMO devs never having bundled console or PC versions with input devices like keyboards and such, but Square-Enix DID bundle the PS2 version of FFXI with the HDD required to play on said console. In fact I'm not sure, but I think that WAS the only way to actually get the HDD back then(someone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong). They could be the first to bundle that stuff in, though. From what I've heard from different sources, the PS3 chatpad isn't particularly convenient, but any solution is better than no solution in my book.

I really don't mind when players don't speak when they actually know what they're doing and can listen, but when it's the other way around, I really hate being that guy, but it's nigh impossible to play with a group under those circumstances.