I'm not usually one to pay attention to infomercials or other ads on tv, but one in particular did happen to grab my attention. It was for a product called, "Magic Jack". It is, basically, like VOIP, but easier to use than most services, and much, much less expensive.
The Magic Jack is a little device that plugs into the usb port on your computer, and your regular phone line plugs directly into the jack. The entire device is smaller than my hand. You simply plug the jack into your computer, and it loads the program automatically. You set it up, select your new phone number, and there you have it... a home phone, with all of the bonus features... voicemail, caller id, call waiting, etc. You also get unlimited local AND long distance calling. The best part, however, is you don't get your regular monthly phone bill! No automatic bank draft coming out every month!
You pay a one time fee of $39.95, which covers your Magic Jack, as well as the cost of them shipping it out to you... AND a full year of service, with all the above mentioned features! After the first year, it's only $19.99 per year! That is less than the monthly price of, even most VOIP services.
I first saw the commercial Thursday, and I received my Magic Jack today (Saturday). I installed it, with no problems, and made a few free long distance calls to try it out... no problems! I'll let ya know how it goes over the coming weeks, but so far, it seems like a fabulous deal!
I have only discovered one downside thus far, and that is that there are no local numbers for my area, in Oklahoma. It did, however, look like most of the other states were listed. It's worth it to me, though, to have a long distance number, since all of my calling will be covered.
If anyone is interested in checking it out, the website is http://www.magicjack.com/1/index.asp .
I just thought it was a really cool product, and thought some of you may be interested in hearing about it.
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Comments: 15
I also ordered a magicJack as well, and my call quality is horrible. I already have Vonage, which works just fine, but have not been able to figure out what the trouble is with magicJack despite contacting support a number of times. The only reason I thought that I would bring this up is to let others know not to cancel their current service until they have tried it out. I do have a friend who also uses magicJack without any problems.
As you mentioned in your article, one other thing to keep in mind is that magicJack plugs directly into your computer's USB port, which then plugs into your phone via a traditional phone jack. Therefore, if you have a laptop that you like to have portable, this may not be the best choice.
Thanks for the article - I am glad to see that word is spreading, and would still encourage others to try it out. Just keep in mind that your mileage may vary :)
My question is once you have established an account and were assigned a phone number, can you transfer the device from one location to another and be able to use your phone?