Convergence is still a major buzzword in the technology world, and even input devices can't escape its touch as evidenced by Sony's new VAIO Mouse Talk combination mouse and VoIP (voice over internet protocol) phone.

The Mouse Talk features a rather ingenious design, serving as a typical input device by day and a flip-open phone by night (or whenever you receive or need to make a call). Even with this double life, the Mouse Talk is a fairly compact unit that works especially well with portable computers.

As an input device, the Mouse Talk features 800-dpi responsiveness. This isn't great for gaming, but it works well for browsing the internet and typical computing tasks. The Mouse Talk feels comfortable in either hand, and the scroll wheel provides healthy clicking feedback and serves as a third button when depressed.

By flipping open the clamshell input device, everything changes. The optical sensor turns off so you're not shiny laser light around during your phone call. The scroll wheel, which is now in reach of your index finger, controls the volume and can mute a call easily.

The Mouse Talk works with Skype, one of the more popular internet telephony services, and it features a blue LED light that flashes when you're receiving an incoming call. Calls were as crisp as any we've made with a headset on Skype, and it was much handier to pick up a call on our Mouse Talk than to grab our headset and struggle to get it on with the "phone" ringing. The input device can also serve as a speakerphone, so you leave it unopened on your desk for a hands-free call.

The Mouse Talk connects via USB 2.0 and is compatible with Windows XP operating systems. Installation is easy, as Windows recognizes it as an optical mouse when you plug it in. You also need to install a small software program that interfaces between the Mouse Talk and Skype.

We tested the white Mouse Talk (model number VN-CX1/W) and it is also available in black (VN-CX1/B) and blue (VN-CX1/L), so you can match it to your Sony VAIO or other PC. The Mouse Talk is pretty expensive for just an input device. However, if you're a heavy Skype user looking for an easier way to make phone calls, the Sony VAIO Mouse Talk is the perfect input device for you.


Pros: Two-in-one design, works well as a phone
Cons: Fairly expensive

Warranty
1 year, limited