MagicJack?

[Alan McCloskey]

I saw on late-night network shopping television this little device called the MagicJack. It is a little USB device that you plug your phone line into which gives you unlimited VOIP for $20 a YEAR.

This sounds too good to be true, so before I ordered one I did a quick search on the internet... and there are lots and lots and lots of negative reviews. Most of them talk about dropped calls and typically unreliable service.

The device has embedded software that only runs on a Windows-based PC. From what I've read, it installs 9 different spyware programs... apparently magicJack is augmenting their cheap service with advertising.

If I were even going to entertain using this, I would put it on a dedicated server machine that I wasn't using anyway (since your PC has to be on for the device to run). Most consumers won't be thrilled with having their PC on 24-7 because of increasing energy costs, but if you already have a server computer, why not throw it on there?

Who knows how long the service will be around, either? There have been several other VOIP networks that have gone belly up without any warning.

Like most VOIP, it shouldn't be your primary communication device. It is meant to augment cell phone service. It is unclear how 911 service works, and since none is mentioned on any review, I assume that there is no 911 service (else there would be monthly FCC charges associated with the device).

From what I've read, it appears to be more trouble than it's worth... anyone have experience with this device?

[Alan McCloskey]

I found this interesting tidbit on the magicJack's terms of use:

11. Advertisements
You also understand and agree that use of the magicJackTM device and Software will include advertisements and that these advertisements are necessary for the magicJackTM device to work and for the service to be free in the first year of the agreement (and subsequent licenses to be at minimal cost). Advertisements will be served through the magicPageTM Software. magicPageTM Software attempts to serve local advertisements and classifieds using a completely automated process that enables us to effectively target dynamically changing content. Our computers may analyze the phone numbers you call in order to improve the relevance of the ads. We do not provide any personal information to our advertisers or third parties. magicJack has a policy of restricting advertisers that it believes are inappropriate, but it does not guarantee the accuracy or integrity of any advertisers and does not endorse any of the advertisements that may appear in connection with use of the magicJackTM device. You also understand and agree that use of the magicJackTM device and Software may include certain communications, such as service announcements, administrative messages and newsletters, and you will not be able to opt out of receiving them.

Blatant spyware... and they actively analyze your calling habits for marketing purposes. Most tech enthusiasts aren't too keen on Big Brother over their shoulder.

[camaroguy1998]

I saw this a couple months ago and ALMOST bought one. Like the old saying goes "if it seems to good to be true it probably is"! The blatant adware is what turned me off so I never did order one! I hate adware and spyware! Reading privacy policies pays off once in a while!

[Trisha Oliver]

Dennis is all over it, but now I'm not so sure I am!

I almost got one last month when they were giving them out for free. The reason I didn't get one, though, is because you can't RECEIVE calls. I also have no clue what phone number would show up on a caller ID, so who would answer the calls not recognizing the number?

I dunno....

[camaroguy1998]

Originally Posted by Trisha Oliver

Dennis is all over it, but now I'm not so sure I am!

I almost got one last month when they were giving them out for free. The reason I didn't get one, though, is because you can't RECEIVE calls. I also have no clue what phone number would show up on a caller ID, so who would answer the calls not recognizing the number?

I dunno....

It said you can make and receive calls and a number from your local area code would be assigned. You just didnt have a choice on what it would be.

[Trisha Oliver]

Oh! I see..... I still don't like it though.

[John-Erik Christensen]

Yeah, seriously? Just use Skype - it even runs on my WM phone so I can use it instead of minutes.

[Trisha Oliver]

Totally....I love Skype. Alan and I used to talk on it, before my stupid ex-husband stole my webcam and took pictures of his wanker to put on craigslist for cheap s*x. That's right, I said it!

[Daniel Pielage]

Whats your skype addy add me resetter83
=]

Im sure Alan can hook you up with an xbox360 webcam those things rock.