A noted feature after the PS3 upgrade to v1.5 a the credit card reader.  It requires a hardware add-on and connects via a USB port.  Normally I don't defend the PS3 but in this case I think there's a few potential uses that are being overlooked.  A credit card can be used for quick login.  Given that the PS3 runs Linux you could now create a POS system and perhaps expand the PS3 market by perhaps 10 or 20 people!  Such record gains are sure to give Sony Entertainment Marketing a reason to celebrate and PR will tout the astronomical growth of the product.

Shrewd move Sony, I'm onto you.