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Unlimited long distance for $19.95 a year? It sounds more like a Ron Popeil commercial than a business plan.
The magicJack device costs $40 for the first year and includes a year of unlimited long distance calls anywhere in the United States. Plug one end of the over-sized thumb-drive device into a USB port, plug a phone into the other end of the device, dial away. The startup has sold more than 400,000 devices six months after launch and is now selling them at a clip of 7,000 per day, adding twice as many new accounts over the period as Vonage.
According to a variety of media pundits, the magicJack gizmo is easy to install and delivers consistently good sound quality on phone calls. Is it a threat to phone companies? You can't bundle TV and broadband with it. And consumer VoIP has been notoriously difficult to make profitable (See Vonage, SunRocket).
However, magicJack isn't perfect. There have been problems with delivering quality tones to menu-driven services and quality of service over cell phone broadband. Customer service--the Achilles heel of many businesses today--is only available through online chats. And you only can make and receive phone calls as long as your computer is on, so media pundits seem to be mixing and matching magicJack's functionality and convenience between Skype and Vonage.
Making money will be done through selling ads, displayed as a part of the software client that runs as magicJack is operational. The company also reserves the right to monitor the numbers dialed to in order to tailor ads, so users are going to give up some privacy in the process.
For more:
- U.S. News and World Reports gushes praise
on magicJack
Related articles:
SPOTLIGHT: MagicJack
voice-via-USB gains steam
Telecom's
voice is changing
Comments
Posted by Al Pope | June 8, 2008 - 8:51pm
I have had Magic Jack for about 6 months and it is great my computer is on all the time anyway and Time Warner wants $40 a month the only time I lost the phone was when TW lost connection
Posted by Anonymous | June 9, 2008 - 2:07am
i know lots of magicjack users. they have all found ways to hack out the SIP credentials and use it as an extremely cheap outbound SIP trunk with an IP PBX or ATA hardware device. none of them use it as intended. while magicjack may be able to sell potential ads to these users; none will ever actually see them since they are not using the magicjack software/device.
Posted by TK | June 9, 2008 - 8:24am
I've never understood the allure of bundling services. Generally it's cheaper to put together services from separate companies and as far as the argument that it's easier to write one check every month? I don't write checks. It takes me an extra 3 seconds to authorize and send a payment via online banking. Not worth the irritation of being at the mercy of my bundler.
Posted by Anonymous | June 10, 2008 - 8:56am
I love Magicjack. I was up and calling in less than 2 minutes and I have saved hundreds of dollars of long distance calls. Voice clarity is great!
Posted by Bill stanton | June 11, 2008 - 7:10pm
uhhh, folks...
Unfortunately, as far as MagicJack is concerned. It simply doesn't work.
I did the 30 day trail. I've kept the MagicJack in the hopes they will "figure it out" (the advantage of the cheap cost to try it out). Vonage had its fair share of problems, but now it works flawlessly, and the quality it excellent. Even with different service providers (DSL or Cable).
Don't even think about tech support. I accused the "person" (personally I think their name is HAL), of being a computer. The responses we just too canned. Definitely smelt like AI.
Anyway, MagicJack was a cool toy for nerds like myself who just can't resist playing with new gadgets. But it is definitely a toy, and I was only entertained for about a day. We are back to using our cell phones for a second line.
Sorry Dan, but all the networks you build will not get me QoS from my house to your network, so having a wonderful backbone is worthless.
Posted by Joseph | July 24, 2008 - 7:43pm
Boy are you wrong. The MagicJack has worked well consistently for me! One thing that amazes me is that you expect live customer service which you can speak with 24x7. That doesn't fit the model. I work in an call center and can tell you that a normal call call (about 6 minutes) cost us about $15 each, which goes towards salary and benefits, equipment charges, utility charges, support functions and personal, parking, etc. Unless you are willing to let Dan know you will pay for the kind of service you want , there is no way he would stay afloat.
As for the "AI", sorry but that is just plain offshore support. It is going to take some time before the companies supporting us in India - or other countries will understand customer service and learn to think outside the box
I think you also forget that there are going to be problems stemming from hardware which has problems (think Fryes Electronics) and software which competes with some of the same hardware and software memory space.
My bet is that if you took your Magic Jack with you to another computer you would probably find it works very well.
And then you may also be the jack shouldn't be connected in wirelessly - there is a lot of interference that my interfere.
So be realistic, try to figure out the problem - I can almost bet it has nothing to with the Magic Jack.
If you are innovative, I bet you could think of a way to help out people who may be having difficulties and make some money yourself. However what kind of support would you give for perhaps $5 a year?
Posted by Anonymous | October 11, 2008 - 8:57pm
You are wrong. It works very well right out of the box.
Posted by Magic John | March 9, 2009 - 7:31pm
I've only had mine for about a week and its alraedy saved me about a hundred smackeroos! Kudos to the folks at Magic Jack!!
Posted by James Ford | April 11, 2009 - 11:25am
Bill- MJ works great. The tech support is also excellent. For unlimited calls, $ 40/yr is the best value on the planet. You must have done something wrong.
Posted by Oggie | June 15, 2008 - 3:21pm
MagicJack USB enables you to make free calls w/i the U.S. and Canada for less than $20 per year as opposed to most providers who charge steep monthly payments. This is a blessing
I am very pleased with this product.
This gadget connects to your pc or laptop via USB port and requires the use of a headset (even bluetooth) or any telephone. It offers many features including:
Free telephone number
Free local and long distance calls
Free Caller ID
Free call forwarding
Free directory assistance
Free call waiting
Free voicemail
Free 911
Free faxing
Free 3-way calling
My personal review:
Pros: Speedy shipping. Gadget is small in size. Does not require software to be downloaded to your pc. Portability. Inexpensive. Excellent audio clarity. Ability to continue free usage when out of the country and calling to US or Canada. Family packages. Choose your own area code. Can be used for business as well as personal use. Ability to fax. Option to change telephone number (free first time, after that $10). etc.
Cons: Initially (first couple of days) the audio was garbled. An update and changing the connected phone resolved the problem. Customer Service is via e-chat (not telephone); however, my experience proved customer service to be swift and satisfactory. The 30-day free trial estimates to actually be a 14-21 day trial--which is rather misleading.
Note: It is not necessary to connect a telephone if you use a headset. Experiment to see which phone works better with your system.
I THINK THIS PRODUCT WILL IMPROVE AND ELIMINATE THE CURRENT COMPETITOR'S SERVICES (SKYPE, VONAGE, LINGO). That said, expect to see many negative reviews due to threat. LOL
Do not take only my word or the words of others. I suggest you try it for free. If you are not satisfied, you can always return it. I'm a lover of great inventions. I'm excited to see where this leads to w/i the next year or so.
Posted by Anonymous | December 28, 2008 - 3:03am
I ordered the device, haven't gotten it yet, even with the express mail, but I was charged $3.95 which is the standard mailing charge...I contaced customer support, is being turned over to another dept to be 'investigated'...and since then I have been unable to do live support..in the event that they actually do send the device I will not even open it, will just send it back..what a rip off!
Posted by Anonymous | January 22, 2009 - 1:31am
Are you sure you're not shilling for MagicJack? Your post reads like astroturf.
Posted by Anonymous | April 5, 2009 - 6:08pm
What do you mean by free faxing? I can't get my fax machine to work plugged into MJ. It works fine plugged into wall phone outlet but not into MJ. Also I am having issues with my computer that I beleive are MJ related. Lately,(I am now 6 months into MJ) my computer is shutting down all by itself, then rebooting. I keep getting a window popping up that shows: nv4_disp display driver has stopped working normally / and I also get sprtcmd. <--- not responding. Do you know what any of this means and could it be MJ related? My computer was working just fine until a couple months into MJ ownership.
Posted by BigSuma | May 17, 2009 - 1:11pm
the nv4_display is your NVIDIA Video card .. try updating the drivers for that card or if your video is integrated you may need a Nforce Update.
The SPRTCMD is Dell's lovely support application crashing. "C:\Program Files\Dell Support Center\bin\sprtcmd.exe" /P DellSupportCenter
either remove or reinstall Dell's Support Center.
Its definitely not the MJ
Posted by Anonymous | June 16, 2008 - 10:14am
the popularity of magicjack is about one thing only. price. it is very misleading that they tout all the different 'features' and 'functionality' or talk about quality. the success is about pricing. end of story.
Posted by Bill | June 24, 2008 - 4:18pm
I highly disagree with Bill Stanton. I have been using mine for over a month now and have had no issues at all. To say "it simply doesn't work" is absolutely wrong. I have recommended it to friends and family and none of them have reported any issues. All I can say is try it for yourself. I did and do not regret it.
Posted by TXUSA | June 25, 2008 - 3:39pm
I've used MagicJack for 10 months and it has worked flawlessly. I'll soon be paying $19.95 for another full year of unlimited domestic local and long distance calls. It can't be beat. At least not yet.
Posted by Anonymous | April 22, 2009 - 7:21pm
It truly depends on your location and the trunks you connect to. My friend works as a tech for the company that puts out the MJ. Mine works flawlessly - as long as Comcast is working (cross your fingers on that one).
Posted by Lyoness | June 26, 2008 - 2:54pm
I've also used MagicJack from here in Toronto and it works wonderfully, on a Mac no less. I can't wait until they have local Toronto numbers. I love magicjack. :P I bought one for my hubby too.
Posted by Anonymous | July 5, 2008 - 11:16am
Magic Jack is a customization of the SJ Labs softphone, with the TigerJet USB-attached RJ-11 phone jack, and a USB-attached flash drive. The software is customized, configured, and placed onto the flash drive, and the whole shebang is condensed into a single usb device. The drive has a windows-based autorun, so it does not work on MACs (any MAC not Intel-based).
They do not support anything on the PowerPC chipset, at least today. You can get those versions to work (not officially of course), by determining your SIP ID and the address of your provider, and plugging that info into a third party soft phone of your choosing. There are a couple additional adjustments to your DNS Hosts file to bypass the lookup for the server address, but it can be done.
The "real" SJ softphone works, and has a handful of "skins" available for use. MJ appears to be working on versions for those systems, so I would view this as a short-term fix only. The software will get better over time, and if the integration is anything like it is on the PC, it will be very good on the MAC too, if not today.
The SIP ID method will allow you to get the jack "working" on an old MAC, although obviously not as straight forward as it is for PC users, with your autoruns, and auto-updates, and what-not.
Devices not USB 2.0 might be a bit spotty.
If you don't have USB 2.0 already get it.
Your life will be better all around...
Other Potential Gotchas:
The device also requires ports 5600 and 5700 open for TCP traffic, which is not open by default on some newer computer model computers, VISTA, or XP with service packs 2 or 3 installed. Installing those service packs might cause problems, if those ports are not already open. Those same ports can also be blocked at your local hotspot, so your mileage may vary there too.
If you have a security program installed that blocks autoruns (you should) you need to turn it off, or allow this device access.
In short, for anybody that wants an inexpensive (and usually simple) connection to make a phone call, Magic Jack really is awesome. I can handle a couple ads in exchange for a few cheap phone calls.
It IS a little oversold, but I'm not sure how much that is marketing, and how much that is the morons they put in front of the camera. IT IS NOT A SILVER BULLET. There are flaws.
I like the device. Can't bitch too much for $20/yr.
Posted by Anonymous | July 5, 2008 - 11:16am
Magic Jack is a customization of the SJ Labs softphone, with the TigerJet USB-attached RJ-11 phone jack, and a USB-attached flash drive. The software is customized, configured, and placed onto the flash drive, and the whole shebang is condensed into a single usb device. The drive has a windows-based autorun, so it does not work on MACs (any MAC not Intel-based).
They do not support anything on the PowerPC chipset, at least today. You can get those versions to work (not officially of course), by determining your SIP ID and the address of your provider, and plugging that info into a third party soft phone of your choosing. There are a couple additional adjustments to your DNS Hosts file to bypass the lookup for the server address, but it can be done.
The "real" SJ softphone works, and has a handful of "skins" available for use. MJ appears to be working on versions for those systems, so I would view this as a short-term fix only. The software will get better over time, and if the integration is anything like it is on the PC, it will be very good on the MAC too, if not today.
The SIP ID method will allow you to get the jack "working" on an old MAC, although obviously not as straight forward as it is for PC users, with your autoruns, and auto-updates, and what-not.
Devices not USB 2.0 might be a bit spotty.
If you don't have USB 2.0 already get it.
Your life will be better all around...
Other Potential Gotchas:
The device also requires ports 5600 and 5700 open for TCP traffic, which is not open by default on some newer computer model computers, VISTA, or XP with service packs 2 or 3 installed. Installing those service packs might cause problems, if those ports are not already open. Those same ports can also be blocked at your local hotspot, so your mileage may vary there too.
If you have a security program installed that blocks autoruns (you should) you need to turn it off, or allow this device access.
In short, for anybody that wants an inexpensive (and usually simple) connection to make a phone call, Magic Jack really is awesome. I can handle a couple ads in exchange for a few cheap phone calls.
It IS a little oversold, but I'm not sure how much that is marketing, and how much that is the morons they put in front of the camera. IT IS NOT A SILVER BULLET. There are flaws.
I like the device. Can't bitch too much for $20/yr.
Posted by Anonymous | November 8, 2008 - 2:08am
Why are you being so negative and using all this technical jargon? I rally think that was inappropriate. Unless you can explain to laypeople what you are saying and it is important/significant for us to know for our safety of something. From what you go on to say it works well so what's the point?
Posted by Anonymous | November 19, 2009 - 2:17am
You're an an idiot; "I rally think that"! The above post is awesome for someone who wants to understand the tech behind the device. I'm interested in running the device on a non-intel mac and skinning the software so I don't have to look at a bunch of ads. The poster knows his stuff, you do not. Let's dumb down everything so the "laypeople" can understand it. Screw that, let the smart people be smart, and the dumb stay in the dark until they find an ounce of ambition! Again, you're and idiot, "I rally think that"!
Posted by Anonymous | July 8, 2008 - 11:48am
I have a Magic Jack, and it worked fine until I downloaded Mozilla Firefox. After that download, I have had trouble with the Magic Jack since. I uninstalled the Mozilla Firefox and had only Internet Explorer on my computer again. Once Firefox was uninstalled, I reinstalled the Magic Jack and it worked fine again.
If you use Firefox with your Magic Jack, you will not be able to use the Magic Jack. Check it out.
JA
Posted by Anonymous | February 14, 2009 - 7:45pm
Thats completely wrong.
I'm using Magicjack with no issues.
Browsers won't interfere with this software as its not browser related at all.
I've actually got the plugin for Outlook as well, and I'm looking for a magicjack plugin for firefox to be able to make calls directly thru firefox similar to the skype plugin.
Firefox + Magicjack is fine. You just have problems with software, obviously.
Posted by Coot90 | July 8, 2008 - 4:49pm
I have no complaints with MJ. Once I played with it a bit, I figured it out. It's saving me about 40 bucks a month from my previous VOIP provider.
I'm not a big phone talker, so the MJ covers my needs at what I consider a big savings.
As for it not working when your PC is off, mine takes voicemail messages.
One problem I did have. If I tried to pay a bill, transfer bank funds, enter account numbers, etc. it wouldn't work if I used my hand-held phone.
Once I started using the soft-pad on my PC screen it was able to complete these transfers.
Is the MJ perfect? No. Is it a rip-off? Again no.Just depends on your needs.
Posted by Gary | July 13, 2008 - 3:23pm
I've been using Magic Jack as my only phone service for about three months, now. I've had no problems, other than that, when the computer is off, anyone calling in experiences a long silence before my voice mail system finally kicks in. But, the only folks calling me at home during the day when I'm at work are usually telephone solicitors, so who cares? Actually, I think they're probably not even calling anymore since I dropped my Cox digital phone service.
Posted by Gary | July 13, 2008 - 3:26pm
Ummm...the guy above who says you can't use Magic Jack with Firefox doesn't know what he's talking about. I use both and have no problems at all. Your browser doesn't have a thing to do with your VOIP service and doesn't interfere in any way with Magic Jack.
Posted by jeff | July 15, 2008 - 9:49am
I've been using magicJack for a few months and it's works out for my needs.
The only thing that bothered me was the user interface. It has an annoying pop-up window that comes up every time someone in the house picks up the phone.
So, being a programmer, I made a small utility to block the pop-up window - but still allow magicJack to function normally.
The utility is available on Download.com, search "magicBlock".
All the best,
Jeff
Posted by J-A-Y | January 14, 2010 - 2:47pm
Jeff, sure would like to see you write something that would stop MagicJack from linking or whatever it does to my Favorites and or my Contacts. I would just like to select or enter whatever contacts I want associated with using my MagicJack. This might be a waste of time since it may be that no one else feels like I do about this. Just an idea. Thanks. P.S.-- your magicBlock works like a charm!
Posted by Sheri Oclassen | July 21, 2008 - 2:46pm
I too disagree with Bill Stanton. I have had no problems with the magic jack. Including faxing. I was so happy I gave one to each of my daughters and my son. Now we are all MJ happy.
I think it depends on your hardware and settings. Not to mention how good your internet connection is. That too plays a big part. Questions? I might be able to help eMail me at Tinypackages@juno.com
Posted by Jacking My Magic | July 24, 2008 - 6:32pm
I have to say, I've had darn good luck with the MagicJack. After the first plug-in and setup, it's been working like a champ. And it was nice having another phone line with my other VOIP service puked and needed an adapter reset. The MJ kept chugging along. The call quality, to me, is very good (I'm running a cable modem with plenty of bandwidth). For $20 a year, it's the bargain of the decade; about 5 cents a day for unlimited North American calling. Additional recommendation - use a DECT 6.0 wireless phone - they are crystal clear compared to the 900mhz, 2.4ghz and 5.8ghz phones.
Posted by Dave | July 30, 2008 - 5:23pm
Jeff,that MJ pop-up had me pulling my hair out.
I will gladly donate a few bucks your way when I can.
Thank you!
Posted by bayfield2008 | August 15, 2008 - 12:50pm
I have an IMac and a PC linked together with a Linksys router. Use Qwest DSL now with MSN. Can I make a hassle free change to MagicJac and have everything up and working easily??
Posted by Ken Reynolds | September 17, 2008 - 3:33pm
I am far enough away from the AT&T server that my internet service is at 768K BPS. My magicjack cuts in and out making it practically unuseable. Is this because of the slow internet or is there some other cause? I was considering returning it within the 30 day warranty but do not have any return address, or any other contact information.
Posted by marsma90 | October 17, 2008 - 4:59pm
I was thrilled years ago when I connected to Vonage and gave up huge phone bills. I was excited to learn about Magicjack. I have had it for 3 months now (the first month I kept Vonage to be sure I did not have problems), and I am now thrilled with Magicjack and have given up Vonage. I had a problem getting my voicemail, contacted customer service, and was given the help I needed to fix the problem. I think it is a great product and tell everyone about it. It works great!!
Posted by Anonymous | October 22, 2008 - 12:20pm
will magic jack work with hughes net satellite internet?
Posted by Anonymous | October 25, 2008 - 10:07am
I've had magicjack for about 5 months now. I had an initial problem installing it, but it turned out to be a firewall problem. Resolving that issue took me about 5 extra minutes, so all in all, I spent maybe 8 minutes getting it to work. Since that time, it's been flawless. Superb sound quality, excellent features, etc. I had been paying Verizon nearly $70/month for my service, which included long distance. I've saved over $300 already. Great product and I recommend it to everyone.
I too leave my computer on all the time anyway, so this wasn't a big deal for me. Especially since it's saved me so much
Posted by ANGELIC | October 30, 2008 - 8:22pm
when are Toronto area codes available? I'm told November 28. Is that true?
Posted by ron | November 13, 2008 - 4:43pm
can you keep your existing phone number? and do you have to buy a mj for each computer?
Posted by Anonymous | November 20, 2008 - 4:20am
I love MJ and it works great for me. The only problem I have (it is not a MJ issue) is when I use Mozilla Firefox. If using (or have used Mozilla Firefox) between phone calls, afterwards I do not get a dial tone. Not sure why that happens...but I stopped using it and use Explorer to avoid this problem. I love saving $$ so I'm happy!
Posted by Anonymous | July 15, 2009 - 3:11pm
The SAME thing happened to me. I did not know why but after reading this I am going to try NOT using it and just my Internet Explorer. Can I have still have it installed on my computer?? It has a virus protection so I want to keep keep.
Posted by Anonymous | July 15, 2009 - 3:12pm
The SAME thing happened to me. I did not know why but after reading this I am going to try NOT using it and just my Internet Explorer. Can I have still have it installed on my computer?? It has a virus protection so I want to keep keep.
Posted by Anonymous | December 1, 2008 - 5:26pm
I want to switch from Cox phone service, but I have one issue I am hesitating on - the electricity cost for my computer.
The computer that I would use Magicjack on is not kept on all day; in fact, it is only used about 4 hours per day. So to keep it on, it would run another 20 hours per day (or about 600 hours per month). Here in Southern California we pay about $.24 per kilowatt hour. I think the average computer consumes about 100 watts of power, so when all that is calculated out, it would cost me about $15 per month and that would not include the $20 fee per year - more than I pay for my Cox phone service currently.
As for long distance, I just use my cell phone. I suppose I could just reduce my cell plan, but it is already fairly bare bones and I have free weekend and carry-over minutes, too.
Is there any type of wirelss router that could be used instead of the computer? I keep my router on all the time.
Posted by Anonymous | May 18, 2009 - 2:10pm
I, too, live in California. My PC stays on anyway...but there is an alternative that COULD save power... A Thin Client running Windows XP embedded. You can buy a used Wyse or HP or similar Thin Client with perhaps 800 MHz CPU, etc., and it uses only about 8 ~ 10 watts of power, compared to 100 watts for the PC you mentioned. The price? About $100, one time. Another little 'bonus' - the thin client is fanless, meaning it would be quieter that a PC. You can find several thin clients on the 'popular' online auction sites...
Posted by TOPSIDER | December 6, 2008 - 12:26pm
Have been using MJ for 2 months on a 4 year old Dell Dimension with WinXP + Firefox + Thunderbird.
I live in Eastern Canada. Have called across Canada, across the US, England, New Zealand, and Australia. NOT ONE PROBLEM.
Where else can I get a private, second line and free, Can-USA L-D for $20 a year.
MJ is a "no-brainer" and the best "gizmo" I've bought in the last 50 years.
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