| Are you a VoIP user? Are you a gadget hound as well? If so, then we've got the list for you. The following twenty-five VoIP gadgets for the VoIP fanatic cover the realm of phones, headsets, Web cams and more. But, they're not your ordinary phones, headsets and Web cams. Oh, no — they're designed for someone like you, because they're one-of-a-kind accessories that will heighten all your VoIP experiences. All but one of the gadgets listed below were introduced during 2007-2008, and a few won't hit the market until the end of this year. We read all the reviews as well, so you won't find any questionable products here. And, surprisingly, many products are within an average budget. Since you're going to save money with a VoIP service anyway, it's about time to treat yourself. We said so. Although the list below is numbered and listed in alphabetical order, this does not mean that we value any one product over another. - A4Tech Internet Phone Keyboard: Make free phone calls with this Internet phone attached to the right side of a 19.6″ x 8.2″ x .6″ high keyboard that weighs all total a mere 1.906 pounds. Experience simple plug-and-play (USB or PS/2) for any Windows user, but you may need to download the driver from the site. Enjoy a patented ergo A-shape layout that prevents Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) from your wrists and arms. Center "A-Type" keys match the ways your fingers naturally move and provide maximum comfort while typing. The slim style reduces typing noise, so your mom won't pick up that you're doing something else while you're talking with her on the VoIP line.
- ARIO Q-bean: The LTB ARIO Q-bean system creates a wireless link to personal computers. The built in microphone enables a user to take advantage of VoIP, speech recognition and speech-to-text features. The dedicated wireless technology uses a unique adaptive frequency system that virtually avoids conflicts with cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, WiFi routers and even Microwave ovens. The ARIO wireless technology is similar to Bluetooth in that it uses a secure pairing synchronization to secure the connection. From that point the Bluetooth similarities are over. The ARIO technology provides a robust digital non-compressed signal that has a range of up to 100 feet and can provide zero latency voice communication, some things Bluetooth has failed to do.
- BeyondTel's Skype Mouse: Forget speaking to the hand, especially when you can speak to the VM-01L Optical USB Skype Mouse with LCD. This product from BeyondTel looks like a 1.5m USB cable (USB 1.1) mouse, but when you want to send or receive calls, the cover flips open to reveal a fully functional keypad and monochrome 128×64 pixel LCD screen with backlight. Features include a contact list, call list, call history, time and caller ID display on the screen, and it's seamlessly integrated with Skype, VoipButser, VoipStunt, VoIPCheap, VoipDiscount, SparVoip, Internetcalls, poivY, WebCallDirect, VoipCheapCom, FreeCall and NetAppel. But, the VoIP phone technology isn't all you get - this mouse includes a high quality USB audio feature, so it also can be used as a mini computer hi-fi speaker to play music. All you need to make this mouse work for you is Microsoft Windows 98/2000/XP/NT, Pentium 400MHz above processor/128MB RAM/16MB free hard disk capacity, an available USB port and an ADSL, cable or dial-up Internet connection (we suggest cable or faster).
- Blue Microphones' Snowflake USB Microphone: This mic is so small you can stuff it in a shirt pocket. The case is the holder, so the design is clever, and it's a snap to use with plug-and-play functionality. This microphone is more than adequate for podcasts and other needs such as VoIP calls. If this gadget isn't up your alley, then check out award-winning family of hand-built microphones to see if you can live with some of their other posh designs.
- boynq Notone Hands-Free Phone [PDF]: The Notone by boynq is uber cool. It's the first PC speaker with a combined VoIP handset receiver and build-in microphone for hands-free calling. When the user prefers a private call he can use the integrated receiver. When picked up, the receiver overrides the main speaker and the external microphone. When left down the user can talk towards the front microphone while enjoying hands-free calling. For those who are disorganized, the Notone contains a paper and pen holder so you can take notes during your calls. The USB port extension on the side of the product allows you to connect your memory sticks, MP3 players, your mouse, etc. directly onto your computer.
- Brando USB Flexible Mini Webcam: Think about the original "War of the Worlds" movie and those aliens that had flexible eyeballs. That's what this web cam looks like, as the stand that connects to your computers USB port is more than flexible. You can rotate the lens to adjust the focus and it's compatible with ICQ, MSN, Skype and other chat and VOIP applications. This webcam is 100 percent plug and play and it doesn't require any drivers to be installed when used under Windows XP or Vista.
- CuPhone Echo-Free Adapter: Using a regular cordless phone with Skype or any VoIP application, you can make or receive both VoIP and PSTN calls on the same phone. Similar to fring (see above), but this product claims an "echo-free" environment and operates with Windows Vista, XP, 2000, ME, 98, MAC and Linux. Although optimized for Skype, users can employ this adapter with MSN, Slite, Delta3, Pet2Phone, VoIPBuster, Dialpad and more. You also can use CuPhone's PPG network overseas to Europe, Asia and South America. Plus, the person on the other end doesn't need to be on your same subscription service.
- EasyVoIP Recorder: Here you go, superspy - this gadget will record and store Skype, Gtalk (Google Talk), VoipCheap, VoipStunt, VoipBuster, VoipBuster Pro, 12Voip, Yahoo Messenger, X-LITE 3.0, MSN Live, Globe7, VoipWise, VoipRaider, VoipDiscount, Net2phone, JustVoip, Freecall, Nonoh, SipDiscount, InternetCalls, WebCalldirect, PoivY and LowRateVoip conversations. You can save voices in separate channels in WAV/OGG/MP3/SPEXX (Stereo/Mono) formats, convert those formats, and upload to a Web site to share with the world. This is a great tool for podcasting interviews.
- Epoq EGP-WP98B Watch Phone: Epoq has developed what is believed to be the first wristwatch running Windows Mobile 5. Its EGP-WP98B has Bluetooth connectivity, an OLED touch screen, 1.28GB of memory, Wi-Fi networking, WMV, AVI, 3GP,MP4,3GP/MP4 support, VoIP support, handwriting recognition, a 1.3 megapixel camera, a microSD memory card slot and a faux alligator wristband. You might go blind in your efforts to view a full Web screen on a 1.4-inch monitor, but this watch definitely will raise your James Bond grooviness a notch.
- fring: fring it on with a VoIP technology that enables users to make free calls using a SkypeOut/SkypeIn account or almost any Internet voice service (SIP) such as SIPNET, EuteliaVoIP, VoIPVoIP and VoIPTalk, even from non-SIP enabled handsets. But, why have a gadget that just makes phone calls when you also can use it to access and interact with your social networks on-the-go and live chat with all your fring, Skype, MSN Messenger, Google Talk, ICQ, SIP, Twitter, Yahoo! and AIM friends using your handset's Internet connection rather than costly cellular airtime minutes? Even more - fring is PC-independent and doesn't require dedicated hardware or airtime. All you need is a supported handset with Internet connectivity and an Internet data package or a WiFi account. Don't stop here, though - keep an eye on fring's fringcubator, as they're firing up developments faster than a cockroach can cross a kitchen.
- IGEL Elegance Monitor with VoIP: Love that 19″ Samsung LCD with a built-in powerful thin client, small desktop footprint and minimal wiring. Better yet, the latest Elegance models contain a premium set of digital services including Citrix ICA 10, Microsoft RDP 6, a Leostream VDI client for connecting to virtual PCs, terminal emulation, web browser, multi-media and more. The Linux model also includes a VoIP client enabling one device to be used for both application and voice access. The new 19-inch Elegance models support smart card readers and the Linux version also Cisco VPN for remote access. If you don't run Linux, the new IGEL Premium series delivers the broadest range of digital services on the market today, such as VoIP and Java, as well as server-based Windows access, video streaming and native access to SAP.
- iRiver Unit 2: Ok - where else can you find this audio, video, DVD player, DiVX player, CD player, FM Tuner, VoIP phone, VoIP Video Phone, SMS/MMS, Web browsing, Web mail, 30GB built-in hard drive, 2GB of NAND Flash and a minimalist design? How about later this year (2008) from iRiver? This product, called "Unit 2," sports a seven-inch touch screen interface and contains built-in stereo speakers to boot. This is the ultimate - and we mean totally all-encompassing - desktop audio system.
- Laser VoIP Station with 6 Port USB Hub: This product was introduced in 2006, but it still stands as a magnificent way to make long-distance calls at local rates. The Laser VoIP Station with six-port USB hub is handy as well (even if not sexy), with selectable dual audio outputs that instantly switch from speaker to headset and that allows conferencing through speaker and microphone. The USB functions can support a PC camera, MP3 player, pen drives, USB Bluetooth dongle and anything else you can devise that needs USB connectivity. Plug and play technology makes it easy to install and a headset, USB cable and driver CD are included.
- Lindy USB 2.0 to Audio Adapter: This USB adapter is the easiest and most affordable way to add sound capability to your notebook or desktop computers. It features connections for your microphone and stereo headphones and speakers. A simple little button allows the microphone input to be muted when you're not using the device. This adapter is ideal for any VoIP application, as it saves your computer speakers for the important stuff, like music. Works with both PC and Mac.
- Linksys Network Optimizer for Gaming and VoIP: If you want to streamline your home network for next-generation Internet applications, this tool is up your alley. This optimizer sits between your router and broadband cable or DSL modem and monitor data going through to determine what data is time-sensitive and what isn't, prioritizes delivery of that data to its destination, and ensures the best possible performance for the various data. By applying various Quality of Service (QoS) techniques to your network traffic, the Network Optimizer makes sure time-sensitive applications like online gaming and VoIP calls run smoothly. Games don't lag. Voice over IP phone calls sound cleaner. Outgoing streamed video from your Internet Video Camera runs smoother. All it takes is a simple installation and it goes to town, so you don't need to bother with user setup of QoS policies.
- Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless Headset: Now you can wash the car while you talk on the phone - as long as you remain within thirty-three feet of your computer. Logitech recently unveiled its first wireless steereo headset designed specifically for Internet calling with a PC. It offers 2.4 GHz wireless technology, simple setup and high performance that any user expects from this company. With the included USB transmitter,the headset effortlessly connects to a PC or Mac computer right out of the box - no software or pairing required. The best part? It contains an advanced algorithm that minimizes interference, even in the busiest wireless environments. This gadget supports PC games; movies; music; and common calling applications including Skype, Yahoo!, Windows Live, AIM and more.
- magicJack: Although this isn't a VoIP gadget - in fact, CNBC has called it a "Skype-killer" - we had to include it as this device cuts long-distance phone costs. And that's what it's all about, after all. Just plug magikJack into a USB port, plug a regular analog phone into the magicJack's RJ-11 port and start dialing for $20 US per year in the U.S. and Canada. Some users have needed to make a few tweaks from what we've read, but overall the experience with magicJack seems extraordinary. Users can enjoy free directory assistance, phone number, call waiting, voicemail and caller ID. All you need is a PC or Mac and an analog phone, so you can take this device with you on the road.
- Neiman Marcus Personal Video Phone: Want to see who you're talking with on your VoIP line? Neiman Marcus makes this a possibility with a totally posh gadget that allows you to add photos of people in your phonebook. It contains a state-of-the-art miniature camera, picture-based caller ID on a 16:9 ratio LCD screen, and sits with a removable handset that doubles as a cordless phone. You'll need to add the monthly service fee for video calls.
- Symbio Cordless DECT phone and Internet Radio: Symbio has produced a highly innovative concept with two key functionalities in the one device: a wireless DECT VoIP phone and an Internet radio. The phone is a futuristic beauty with Calling Line Identification Presentation (CLIP) (1) on color screen (128×128), hands-free facility, phonebook for up to 200 names and numbers and multi-line handling capability. You can play with SMS text messaging, RSS data management and hear it all through HD sound with G722 speech coding. The radio portion is portable with over six hours' listening time from a rechargeable Li-Ion battery. You'll love the DECT extended range and high quality reception, with none of the interference typical from FM.
- Tesco Stick Phone: You really can stick this phone in your shoe, if necessary. This USB stick phone contains a UK number and comes complete with earphones, microphone, 1GB of storage and some VoIP software. You can use it to make phone calls from any broadband-connected PC in the world. enables you to turn your computer into a low-cost phone and virtual office. Although the UK phone number is required, Tesco has stated it is set to open their first stores in California and Arizona by the end of 2008.
- Tux Droid: From dancing for e-mail alerts, acting as a remote control for your PC and even doubling as a wireless VOIP phone Tux does your bidding. But of course the real fun begins when you code your own applications for the Tux Droid. A plethora of interesting inputs and outputs are available for your programmatic pleasure. Tux can blink his eyes, light-up his eyes, swivel on his base, flap his wings, talk… and he can also hear, tell how dark it is, sense a push on his head, a push on either wing and accept commands from the included IR remote. It's everything you could want in a automatic wireless penguin based companion. For an encore, Tux plugs into your computer via a wireless USB link that looks like a small fish.
- Urban Tool perCushion: Ok. We recognize that this gadget doesn't fit the VoIP category; but it is wireless and it does support Bluetooth technology and it would make a great gift for that uptight significant other. Plus, it has to be the most relaxing way to talk with anyone via phone. The perCushion is a cotton velvet pillow filled with foam core and it's connected with your mobile wirelessly via Bluetooth. The integrated fabric interface includes an activating/standby button, a Bluetooth pairing button, a button for answering calls and indicating LEDs furthermore a microphone and loudspeakers. The lithium ionic battery can be charged with the enclosed charger. Take that next call while 'laxing on the sofa. When you're that relaxed, who knows what will happen with that next call?
- USB Ferris Wheel Phone Stand: This gadget would make a great gag gift - you can take the USB Ferris Wheel Phone Stand anywhere, because all you need is an Internet connection. After a plug-and-play installation, incoming phone calls will activate the rotation of the ferris wheel, LED lights begin to flash and it plays "Rock-a-Bye Baby." Thank heavens the device has an on/off/mute switch. The ferris wheel is powered by USB or by two AA batteries.
- VTech IS6110 Cordless Phone:VTech has created a new cordless home phone capable of signing into and messaging people using MSN Messenger, Windows Live Messenger, and AOL Instant Messenger. All you need to do is plug and play, as the phone connects to a computer's base station. This phone contains a full QWERTY keypad and it works with VoIP. You'll enjoy a large high-res LCD screen, caller ID, call waiting, recordable ring tones and more. Plus, the phone is Energy Star rated, RoHS Compliant, and come in 100 percent recyclable packaging. What more could you want from a home phone?
- Zoom Switch: If you're going to go cordless with your headset (or, if you simply have a computer and a phone with a handset), try adding a ZoomSwitch ZMS10 so you can switch between your computer and phone at the touch of a button. This switch adds USB functionality to any wired headset or handset connected to your phone's handset or headset port (RJ9).You can make VoIP, Skype, or video chats, listen to online Webinars, switch back to office phone calls, dictate into speech recognition software and more.
|
0 comments:
Post a Comment