The Magic Jack device is deceptively simple, with every features one could want in a VOIP solution. And, for just $20 per year in service, you get everything, unlimited calls to the US and Canada, call forwarding to three simultaneous numbers, call conferencing, an local inbound phone number, advanced caller ID, voice mail, and even a connection to Outlook
The size of a matchbox, this device installs automatically on any computer you connect it to, and it announces your presence at that computer to the network so that phone calls are immediately routed to that computer. Using either the computer microphone and speaker or any phone plugged into the Magic Jack, you can immediately begin making calls just by dialing the number... even if you are in Europe or Asia, and all calls to the US are free, and calls overseas are just 2 cents, and inbound calls are free.
For a small "virtual" business, the Magic Jack gives you a phone number that rings at a reception desk for just $20 per year, plus it rings up to three other numbers simultaneously (home, office, cell, etc). The first to answer their phone (or computer) captures the call.
For Microsoft Outlook users, the magicJack includes free software which makes a call to any outlook contact just a click away.
For small business travelers, the ability to make free phone calls without burning off valuable cell minutes or using hotel phones at a buck a minute, this is an invaluable tool.
As a result of cellular plans, and Vonage and Skype, today, many homes across America have no traditional wired phone lines in their homes. And, with cordless phones coming in sets of two or four (or more) that require only one phone jack, the magic Jack is the solution that more than likely will tip the scales against the major wired carriers, leading to adoption of VOIP by millions of homes for whom Vonage is too expensive, and Skype is too computer-oriented. The only remaining piece of the puzzle that would allow almost any computer-connected home to get away from Ma Bell is number portability. Currently, magicJack does not allow you to request vanity numbers or to transfer your own phone number to their service, but we are told that this is coming soon. When that happens, the floodgates will open up.