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January 24, 2008

Magic Jack - Local and Long Distance Calling for $20 a Year

Recently I received a Magic Jack sample. It is a small - about 2.5 inches by 1.5 inches by .75 inch - box with a USB port on one end and a telephone jack on the other. Simply plug the USB into your computer, download a small software application from Magic Jack, plug an ordinary phone into the Magic Jack and start making calls.
magicjack.jpg

I was making calls within a couple of minutes. The calls were clear, at least equal to the Vonage service that I normally use. I did have a problem with one call, I was downloading a large document, during the download the call broke up a little, but returned to normal when the download was complete.

The Magic Jack features:
- three way calling
- caller ID
- call waiting
- call forwarding
- 911
- voice mail

The Magic Jack currently works with Microsoft Windows XP and Vista based computers, I tried it on a computer that has Vista Home Premium. There is a beta download for Macs but you have to download the update on a Windows based computer.

A few points to consider:
- your computer must be on to make or receive a call, but if your computer is turned off incoming calls can be forwarded or go to voice mail.
- you can not make calls to land lines and cell phones anywhere besides the US and Canada, but you can call anyone in the world if they are also using a Magic Jack (Magic Jack has announced that an international calling program is coming soon).
- It does not work with dial-up or satellite internet connections, you need to have cable or DSL broadband service.
- Magic Jack does not supports its use for faxing. According to Magic Jack's web site, it works 'sometimes'. I did not test the Magic Jacks faxing capabilities.
- There is an extensive list of area codes available, but not my local area code - Knoxville, Tennessee (865). The closest area code available was Nashville (615).
- You cannot port or transfer your current phone number. After picking an area code you will be assigned a new number. Magic Jack is planning on offering this feature soon.

The cost for the Magic Jack and one year of service is $39.95, service each year after the first is $19.95.

For more information go to Magic Jack.
What do you think? Have you tried it? There are some limitations, but $20 a year for local and long distance is a bargain.

Posted by Bob Gatton at January 24, 2008 1:28 PM

Comments

I just received my magic jack yesterday, and was a little disappointed that I could only use it with Windows XP, but fell in line none-the less... as I wanted to use it specifically for on the road faxing.... as I travel alot.

Anyway, I've just tested a loopback faxing capability through my home fax machine, through magic jack, over to an efax number... and am very happy to report it was a success on my fax machines "medium" transmission speed setting, with error correction turned off.. (the first test failed, w/on & fast settings)

Just wanted to share my test results with all interested.

Enjoy!

Posted by: New MagicJack user at January 31, 2008 6:31 PM

New MagicJack user-
I contacted the folks at MagicJack today and for faxes they confirm your findings. They suggest the following:

We do not officially support using faxing with MagicJack. Please try the following steps to use MagicJack with your fax (contact your fax vendor for details):

- turn off error correction on your fax machine or program

- set the fax machine or program to use the slowest speed available

- increase the speed, checking at each speed that faxes work

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 1, 2008 12:01 PM

I have used mine and would highly recommend it. My only problem has been that the internet will not boot up if MagicJack is plugged in. So I unplug MagicJack before starting the computer each morning and everything is fine.

Posted by: Sandra Steele at February 5, 2008 6:53 PM

I just had an online chat with magicJack, and the big drawback to this system is that if you live in one city and you have to have a phone number that is local to another city, it is a long distance phone call for your next door neighbor to call you. You can call the neighbor with neither of you incurring any charges, but they cannot call you without long distance charges on their phone.

Posted by: John Shelton at February 5, 2008 7:33 PM

Can you use more than 1 magic jack? Lets say I have a computer in almost every room of the house can I have a magic jack plugged into each computer so every room has a phone?

Posted by: Nancy at February 5, 2008 8:02 PM

Nancy,

If you use wireless phones and connect the main base station into the phone jack. You should be able to have multiple wireless phones around the house.

Posted by: VTVagabond at February 5, 2008 9:16 PM

don't you still have to have telephone service from a carrier to be able to use dsl?

Posted by: pauline m ward at February 5, 2008 10:23 PM

I use something very similar called Skype which works even if the computer is off! I can call any landline, cell phone, or other Skype phone for 29.95/year! And it's clearer than my landline or cell phone...

Posted by: Charles Whatley at February 5, 2008 11:09 PM

Pauline,
It depends. Some phone companies offer what they call "Naked DSL". I'm not making up the name. It means DSL without phone service. I'm not sure if it's available in my area. Check with your local phone company to see if it's offered where you are.

Posted by: Brad M at February 5, 2008 11:36 PM

What is the answer to the question - do you still have to have telephone service from a carrier to be able to use dsl? How can locals get your phone number that Magic Jack gives you, if you are not in the local phone book?

Posted by: Ginger at February 5, 2008 11:43 PM

Not if you have Cable. Even if you have a phone line + DSL, long distance is extra. Usually way more expensive. Most people use cell phones though, most people have nationwide plans. I guess mj its good for some people. I received a defective unit and then returned it.

Posted by: Andre at February 6, 2008 1:05 AM

Are there any federal,state,local taxes & 911 fees etc.?

Posted by: Roger at February 6, 2008 1:05 AM

I ordered a MagicJack last weekend and received it on Tuesday. I am using it with a 7 year old 1.7 GHz XP pro machine, 2MB of RAM and 5M Charter PipeLine. It works great except when there is heavy processor use and then the voice quality is broken up. It is a very good deal for $39.95 the first year and $19.95 for each additional year. The only two things I did not like was you have to log in to your web account to add/remove/change call forwarding and there is no name shown or sent for caller ID service.

Posted by: James Ford at February 6, 2008 1:21 AM

I run a small business. Is it poss. to tag my 800 number to the new number I would get?

Posted by: Lou at February 6, 2008 6:40 AM

You can have dsl without a home phone. I just had my local and long distance turned off. I still have dsl, direct tv, and cell service.

Posted by: Shirley at February 6, 2008 7:23 AM

If you have to call overseas: Europe, China, Caribbean, etc. Is there a per minute fee?

Posted by: Roy at February 6, 2008 8:42 AM

If you only have cell phones do you need to get a phone and number to be able to get this service ?

Posted by: Lynn at February 6, 2008 9:11 AM

I use Skype which is both Mac and PC compatible. Computer to computer calls anywhere are free. For $29.95/year you can call any landline or cell phone in US/Canada. Service is excellent and doesn't require any extra equipment (i.e. UBS plug-in and phone handset).

Posted by: Ronnie at February 6, 2008 10:46 AM

I do not have phone service yet and I am getting basic cable. But in order for me to hook up my computer to use the internet I have to have phone service. Is this true?

Posted by: Njari at February 6, 2008 11:18 AM

I have 2 questions: 1) Why can't I use it with my security system? 2) If the area code closest to me is considered long distance, wouldn't ppl calling me be charged long distance fees?

Posted by: Angie at February 6, 2008 12:07 PM

"Can you use more than 1 magic jack? Lets say I have a computer in almost every room of the house can I have a magic jack plugged into each computer so every room has a phone?"


Yes,no problem


"Are there any federal,state,local taxes & 911 fees etc.?"

Not yet, give our government some time.

"I run a small business. Is it poss. to tag my 800 number to the new number I would get?"

Soon we will offer very low 800 rates.

"If you have to call overseas: Europe, China, Caribbean, etc. Is there a per minute fee?"

We have lower rates than Vonage and Skype per minute prepaid

"I use Skype which is both Mac and PC compatible. Computer to computer calls anywhere are free. For $29.95/year you can call any landline or cell phonein US/Canada. Service is excellent and doesn't require any extra equipment (i.e. UBS plug-in and phone handset)."

We work on all platforms too.Skype is not even in the same ballpark in voice quality. Night and Day.Jack to Jack is free.Skype cost $108 a year plus you must buy a special attachment. You forgot to include buying a number,taxes,etc. They do not have 911 either. The voice quality alone should be enough of a hindrance. We are only $19.95 a year. Your existing Phone works. We are 100 times easier to setup, with plug and play.The list is long.

"I do not have phone service yet and I am getting basic cable. But in order for me to hook up my computer to use the internet I have to have phone service. Is this true?"

This is not true, you just need High Speed, cable is fine.

"I have 2 questions: 1) Why can't I use it with my security system? 2) If the area code closest to me is considered long distance, wouldn't ppl calling me be charged long distance fees?"

If everybody had a magicJack like they should,you would not ask these questions anymore....Security we do not want to say it works, in case it does not. To hairy.

Sincerely,

Dan Borislow - Inventor of the magicJack

Posted by: Dan Borislow at February 6, 2008 3:02 PM

Does MagicJack work with a wifi hookup ?

Posted by: Thom at February 6, 2008 6:13 PM

Thom:
I tried it on a notebook (Dell 710M w/ 802.11g - XP Home) connected to my wireless network in my home. It worked just as well as it did with my desktop computer that is hardwired to the network.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 6, 2008 6:38 PM

I have the other guy powering every phone in the house. 6 of them. Can I use this service to connect all of the phones in the house as I am currently doing? Forty a year is a whole lot better than Thirty a month.

Posted by: Earl at February 6, 2008 7:58 PM

Looks like you are about to put the phone company out of business, Dan.... its about time somebody did. Congrats!

Posted by: michelle at February 6, 2008 10:49 PM

I WORK FOR BRINK'S HOME SECURITY DEALER & YOU MUST HAVE THE RIGHT PROTOCOL FOR THE ALARM SYSTEM TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE MONITORING CENTER. ONLY BRINKS CAN HANDLE VOIP SERVICE & EVEN THEN VONAGE, MOST CABLE COMPANY PROVIDED PHONE SERVICE & OF COURSE AT&T. NO OTHER COMPANY CAN DEAL WITH THE VOIP SERVICES AND IF THEY TELL YOU THEY CAN...THEY ARE USE SOMETHING OTHER THAN YOUR VOIP SERVICE!!!!!! MAYBE A CELL SERVICE OR SOMETHING SIMILAR. SKYPE, ROCKET8, ETC. VOIP IS NOT A COMPATIBLE PHONE EVEN FOR BRINKS HOME SECURITY. HOPE THIS INFO HELPS!!!!

Posted by: 775-287-8421 at February 7, 2008 12:14 AM

Does Magic Jack work with Vista?

Posted by: Shirl at February 7, 2008 8:48 AM

Shirl:
Yes, it works with Vista.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 7, 2008 5:44 PM

I've had the MJ for a week or so. I have it hooked up to my laptop which is connected wirelessly to the cable internet. It's been my experience that my voice mail doesn't pick up sometimes & the caller ID sometimes doesn't work. The voice sounds great. I like the fact that I can use the MJ software with my built in mic as well. My single major GRIPE is : I Live in Oklahoma. When do we get local area codes in our areas so everyone that chooses to call us on this number from their local land line doesn't have to pay for long distance services. I think it's about time that someone finds us all an economical way to talk nationally. The telephone companies have been STICKING it to US for years. Retirees that are on fixed incomes..etc....need all the assistance they can get...with just the basic needs..anymore. Thanks Dan for this remarkable invention. YOU'RE GOING TO GET RICH DAN !! I think it's amazing that One man..Invents this amazingly simple tool that can save us all lots of cashola....Shows us how greedy the Big Boys..really are doesn't. We all love seeing the Big Bully get a black eye...and send him home crying to mama... Send em home to Mama Dan...

Posted by: Terry at February 7, 2008 6:40 PM

Dan-
I just got off the phone with your live chat and am confused.
Right now I have comcast Cable Modem. Out of the back of their modem- the phone line runs back to a wall outlet that I have a two line jack/splitter plugged in.
That way I have a land line plugged in and sitting next to my monitor AND the signal is also transmitted through the wall outlets to the rest of the phones in the house.
Why would this NOT work with your Jack as I was told ?

Alternatively- If I plug a wireless phone system base unit into the Magic Jack- will that signal be shared to the other free standing hand sets ?

Thank You

Posted by: Tony Brown at February 8, 2008 10:01 AM

when will this service be available for mac users?

Posted by: susan at February 8, 2008 3:11 PM

Susan, according to magicjack.com, Mac compatibility will be available 'soon'.

Tony,
"Alternatively- If I plug a wireless phone system base unit into the Magic Jack- will that signal be shared to the other free standing hand sets?"
This is my set up in my home, the Magic Jack is connected to base unit, the other two freestanding cordless phones work perfectly.

I will contact Dan on Monday and ask him to address yours and Susan's questions.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 9, 2008 6:50 PM

Let's see if I have this right? If my phone co.(AT&T) provide Naked dsl,I could cancel my local and long distance service and I could still use all the services I pay for now(3-way, voice mail,911 etc) FOR 29.95/YR plus a per minute fee for international calls???? this sounds too good to be true....

Posted by: Maggie Henton at February 10, 2008 6:05 PM

Maggie,
It is only $20 bucks a year. On international calls, (from magicjack.com)

"Call any person on their magicJack number in any country and the call is free.

Call back to the US from another country with your magicJack and it's free.

International Services are not available during our Beta test, but will be "soon"

I know that it sounds too good to be true, if I read this on a blog I would have my doubts. But I have been using mine for a couple of weeks. I have made and received at least 100 calls (I work from my home). So far, it is working very well.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 10, 2008 6:37 PM

I am one of those people who are very skeptical at offers that sound to good to be true and I don't like putting anything in my computer that might cause me headaches. Magic Jack is a dream I found. Easy to install on my XP system and works great. I never pay for any long distance calls now. Sound is great. I plan to drop my greedy Verizon and AT&T services soon as I am tired of paying all my money to those monopoly beasts. I love Magic Jack service and hope they are here to stay. Long live Magic Jack!!!

Posted by: Glenn T at February 15, 2008 11:54 AM

The Magic Jack needs to remain low cost to be kicking the phone co to the curb but then will they raise thier rates and become just like the phone co? as long as other companys can do what the magic jack did then magic jack will have good reason to keep thier rates low, Jason Davis CEO NutriXtractor Inc.

Posted by: Jason at February 15, 2008 3:45 PM

I'm still having trouble with incoming calls----They all go directly to voice mail...If any one has this problem please HELP>>>>> Otherwise it's fine

Posted by: sandie m. at February 16, 2008 4:14 AM

I received my MJ last week. Works great and when my pc is off i forward call to my cell which has free incoming calls. I don't have DSL or Cable I have high speed microwave and it works fine.

I did refer one to my friend they got theirs and only had one complaint. After talking to someone on a cell phone from their home phone they keep hearing a beeping noise like someone is trying to dail a number. This only happens when they call someone with a cell #. I haven't notice this on my calls.

I am turning off my vonage as of this month.

Thanks MJ

Posted by: Pat Bratcher at February 18, 2008 9:59 PM

I have a Majic Jack running on MacOS 10.5.2. Everything works well EXCEPT for caller ID. The Jack isn't passing along the Caller ID info to the phone or my Directv receiver that is connected to the jack. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Posted by: Jason at February 23, 2008 4:57 PM

I use my laptop while traveling in my RV. Can I use Magic Jack to make phone calls without any WI FI connection? If not, do you have to be in an area where MJ service is available?

Thanks for any help.

Posted by: William Slaughter at February 24, 2008 12:58 PM

William,

Sorry, but MagicJack only works when
a) your computer turned on, with
b) a broadband internet connection.
This broadband connection can be cable or DSL and the computer can be connected to this broadband internet connection directly from the modem, through a router or from WiFi.
If you don't have an internet connection, the MagicJack will not work.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at February 24, 2008 2:43 PM

I have so called "Broadband" internet through my cell phone which connects to the computer through a USB cable and I get anywhere from 115kps to 230kps. Can I use the MagicJack with this setup?

Posted by: LANCE at March 3, 2008 4:07 PM

Lance,
According to MagicJack.com's frequently asked questions, "magicJack requires approximately 80 kpbs of bandwidth."

With your broadband speed of 115 to 230, it should work.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 3, 2008 4:48 PM

I seen the 80kps statement, but was unsure because they said "dial up" wouldn't work (which could be attributed to the slow speed). However, they also say it will not work with a dish even though a dish is much faster than my connection. I wanted to ask them about this, but I didn't see a way to contact them on their web site.

Posted by: LANCE at March 4, 2008 1:13 AM

Has anyone tried to disconnect their local phone service from outside their house and plug the magic jack in one of the outlets to enable every outlet using the magic jack??? I have read that this works with normal voip services.
How about it Mr. Gatton...think it would work?

Posted by: Cheap T at March 4, 2008 12:30 PM

Bob,

I just got off from the live chat with MagicJack and they seem to insist that it dose not work with dial up... Period. Even though I told him my "Dial Up" easily exceeds the 80kps need both way's. I thought I would pass this along for others thinking of doing through their cell carrier. The guy on the other end did not seem to be to technical so maybe it was just him. Maybe someone that has their phone number can call and talk to somebody more knowledgeable at the company.

Posted by: LANCE at March 4, 2008 6:24 PM

"Has anyone tried to disconnect their local phone service from outside their house and plug the magic jack in one of the outlets to enable every outlet using the magic jack??? I have read that this works with normal voip services.
How about it Mr. Gatton...think it would work?"


I'd like to know if this works as well? Also will this work with my house alarm monitoring service?

Posted by: Russ at March 6, 2008 4:58 AM

Cheap T and Russ
I don't know if you can plug the MagicJack into one telephone outlet in your home and then access phone service from other outlets. I sent Dan at MagicJack an email asking that he answer this question.

Russ
From MagicJacks web site:
Can I have an alarm system hooked up?
No. We do not recommend using magicJack with your alarm system.
http://help.magicjack.com/SupportFaq/SearchResults.aspx?Term=security%20systems

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 6, 2008 7:37 AM

Can anyone tell me if they have a phone where I can reach them, Maic Jack because I am very dissapointed because I asked for one to be send to me and I was not supposed to be charged as it says clearly on the Website and I have been charged now and double as if I ordered 2 of them when it was only one.
I am hoping this is not a fraud but they have charged me $46.90 twice when I purchased this on Sunday, March 9th. Please somebody let me know if there is an 800 # where I can contact them on the phone.

Posted by: Belkis at March 11, 2008 9:33 AM

Hi,

It has been my experience that if you want to talk to someone at magicJack. Be it Technical or Billing questions their tech chat help you out. Bob, I am sure that if you use this tech chat service they can help you with your billing issue as well. To get to magicJack tech chat, just use this link: http://www.magicjacktv.com/4/magicfix.asp
and then scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on tech chat.

Posted by: Tom at March 11, 2008 2:18 PM

I sent Dan, the inventor of the Magic Jack, an email asking that he answer the unanswered questions in this thread.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 11, 2008 2:35 PM

I run an appliance repair business from home. We cover a 3 county area and have 3 different local phone numbers(for different areas), plus a toll free number all of which are call forwarded to my home phone number. I have an office cell phone that my inside help uses to call customers which would be long distance calls from the home phone. I would love to reduce my phone costs and am wondering if Magic Jack can help me do this while allowing me to retain my current local phone numbers and my toll free number?

Posted by: Jeff at March 22, 2008 1:17 PM

Jeff,
"You cannot port or transfer your current phone number. After picking an area code you will be assigned a new number. Magic Jack is planning on offering this feature soon."
You can't keep your existing telephone numbers. Sorry. But Magic Jack is adding features all the time. You might want to check there web site every few weeks. They might start offering the ability to keep your current telephone number.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 22, 2008 3:15 PM

Very happy to hear about this product. Since jack to jack is free does that mean I can use a jack in the states and send a second jack over seas with a USA number? Would this allow me to call international and have it be fee free?

Posted by: Verizon Bluez at March 24, 2008 2:43 AM

Does anyone know if you can recieve collect call on the magic jack. And by the way none of your tech links for these guys seem to be working. Is there anywhere you can go buy one of these in person?

Posted by: Robin at March 24, 2008 7:48 PM

Will magicjack be available for PowerPC G4 Mac running 10.4.11?

Posted by: linda at March 25, 2008 2:07 PM

Hi
I am interested in purchasing this magic jack but I dont see my or any canadian area codes available....Im in quebec...is it availble here...will it be...
thanks
C

Posted by: cathy at March 26, 2008 9:37 AM

don't expect much for 20$/yr, move on


do better things in life

Posted by: ugetwhatupaidfor at March 26, 2008 2:55 PM

Can I receive collect calls with magicjack?

Posted by: Linda at March 26, 2008 8:41 PM

Robin,
Thanks for the heads up on the links. They worked when I first posted this entry, but Magic Jack has changed their site. I fixed one link and deleted the other.

Robin and Linda,
Collect Calls, I did some searches and the only thing that I found about Magic Jack and collect calls is a company that works with correctional facilities to allow placing collect calls to VOIP numbers including Magic Jack. Link to the company:
www.globaltellink.com

Linda,
Magic Jack Mac link:
http://www.magicjack.com/1/mac.asp
Right now Magic Jack's will only work with Intel based Macs. If memory serves me the, G4 does not have an Intel processor. As far as 'will they', probably, but I don't know.

I have sent Dan, the inventor of the Magic Jack, a couple of emails asking that he answers some of the new questions on this thread.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 27, 2008 5:13 PM

I bought two magic jacks for $39.95 each, total of $79.90 (free shipping). After my 30 day free trial, my bank account was charged $140.65. The only phone # I have, the voice mail is always full. The on-line chat room is totally useless. They will not give you any information, and never answer your questions. They keep telling you they can't access your account, to try again. I tried three days straight with the same results. I can find no address for Magic Jack. So beware, if it sounds too good to be true - ??

Posted by: Pat at March 29, 2008 12:32 PM

I travel and use my laptop. When I stay at hotel or visit an office that has WiFi in the building, will I be able to "plug-in" the Magic Jack and make calls?

I do not care whether people call me on the magic jack as I have office and cell phones. I only want it for out-going calls when I am traveling. Will this solve my problems?

Thanks

Posted by: Alan at March 29, 2008 12:58 PM

from magicjack.com - FAQs - using your magic jack.

Can I use magicJack in a Hotel or Motel?
Yes, you usually can. Some hotels may block the connection however.

Posted by: Frank at March 29, 2008 2:35 PM

I'm sending mine back - as soon as I can find the address.........can't contact Tech Help and the site has been down for days, so I couldn't register. It keeps telling me I'm not on the internet, etc. I have satellite, so it may not work, but they should have told me.

Posted by: GERALDINE at March 31, 2008 7:41 PM

Geraldine:
Try this link for returns:
http://my.magicjack.com/returns.html

And from their Frequently Asked Questions:
Will magicJack work with satellite broadband, like DirecTV?

No. We do not recommend using magicJack with satellite internet.

Its there, but you really have to look for it. I think 'what works and what doesn't work' should easier to find.

Sorry it didn't work for you.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at March 31, 2008 7:52 PM

Questions about powering up your whole house with magic jack. Yes you can have all outlets currently active with the magic jack, you just plug it into any phone outlet thats hooked up and then disconnect your current provider. then you plug the magic jack into the computer and your whole house will be hooked up. it is very important that you disconnect your current provider before pluging the magic jack in otherwise no phones will work. if you dont know how to disconnect your current phone provider i would not recommend doing it, it might mess this up for you.

Posted by: Chris at April 1, 2008 6:14 PM

they have the worst customer service ever!they don't have a phone number, the only way to contact them is through a chat.which has nothing but idiots who dont know nothing but installation information that they read from a manual. i ordered my product 3 months ago and still have not receive my product as of yet and even with my order number they cant give me a straight answer. its almost like they only have two people name samantha and sam working the chat. but thinking about it that could be the same person.if you are going to try voip use vanage or a more established company it will worth more in the long run and lest stress.

Posted by: darron at April 2, 2008 2:09 AM

I have MagicJack powering all phone outlets in my home. Good service, all phones ring loud.
My question is: Why do I need to dial the area code on some numbers when they are within my area code?

Posted by: 805-929-5998 at April 2, 2008 9:56 PM

1. Where can I see what zip codes are offered?

2. Can I change my zip code and phone number if I move. I.E., I live in one city and state six months a year and 6 months at my vacation home.

3. Is this the only contact to ask questions while inquiring about Magic_Jack?

Thank,
---Rick

Posted by: Rick Bormann at April 3, 2008 6:19 AM

805-929-5998
Do I have to dial any extra numbers with magicJack?
from magicjack.com
"For long distance calls, simply dial the other party's 10-digit telephone number. You may have to dial 10-digits for local calls in some areas." I don't know why this is, I always just dial the full 10 digit number.

And thanks for your feedback on successfully using MagicJack to power all of your telephone outlets in your home.

Rick,
For AREA codes offered:
http://www.magicjack.com/1/areacodes.asp

According to magic jacks web site, you can change your area code and number once for no charge.

And, Rick, I have no affiliation with Magic Jack. One of the things that I do for HGTVpro.com is to find interesting technology products, and I try to answer questions on the blog. But I am not part of Magic Jack's customer service. Try going here:
http://server.iad.liveperson.net/hc/73335289/?cmd=file&file=visitorWantsToChat&site=73335289&byhref=1&SESSIONVAR!skill=tech&imageUrl=http://server.iad.liveperson.net/hcp/Gallery/ChatButton-Gallery/English/General/3a

Posted by: Bob Gatton at April 3, 2008 7:31 AM

Went to list of area codes offered at http://www.magicjack.com/1/areacodes.asp and there are NONE for Rhode Island! With 1.2 MILLION people in this state, multiply that number by the 40 bucks to order Magicjack, and then multiply it again by the 20 bucks per year for the service, and that's how much money Magicjack will NOT EVER be making. How dumb is that!

Posted by: Kevin at April 5, 2008 12:04 AM

I received the Magicjack three weeks ago. Set up was easy and it ran great for about one week. Now the voice mail feature does not work at all and when I try to sent an e-mail to magicjack it says my e-mail and password do not exist in the their system. I tried the on line chat and always get someone but all they say is wait an hour and things will get better. I have been hearing that for over a week now. I can still call out and receive incoming calls but when off line the system does not take voice mail messages. Any one else experiencing this problem?

Posted by: David at April 9, 2008 10:30 AM

I was wondering if when ppl call me are they charged for long dis. calls because of the 214 on my # ?

Posted by: JoAne at April 13, 2008 11:51 PM

I have been trying to make this simple magic jack work for two days. I here a dial tone,however, when I pick the receaver up, winthin 10 seconds the phone goes dead. I cannot even fill out the form that is requesteded to activate the system.
This is simple?

Posted by: Alvin Smithart at April 14, 2008 1:07 PM

Sorry, I don't have a comment I have a problem with my device which is not working normally. I am in Miami Florida, I can only receive a phone call from someone who has a mobile phone. If someone has a home phone, they can not call me. And then I do not have a three way calling feature, plus when I am talking the person can hear me with a lot of diffilculties.

Posted by: Jean-Maxon Adrien at April 14, 2008 5:26 PM

I was wondering if when ppl call me are they charged for long dis. calls because of the 214 on my # ?

if when the ppl call u they be charged ld if they charged ld for call to regular # in that area code

Posted by: Steve at April 15, 2008 6:07 PM

Posted by: Y2KS2K at April 15, 2008 6:44 PM

I see many posts that say the pc is slowed down while using...will it slow a network of 3 pcs down? I plan on using this for primarily a business line and have a pc just for this purpose because I hear the pc has to be on to use.

Posted by: John at April 16, 2008 9:04 AM

John, from Magic Jack's FAQs
Will magicJack work on a Networked computer?
Yes. magicJack will work on a computer that is behind a router.

How many magicJacks can I have with one broadband connection?
You can use several magicJacks with one connection. It depends on the total bandwidth provided by your internet connection. Each magicJack will use approximately 80 kbps of bandwidth during a call.

Posted by: Bob at April 17, 2008 11:05 AM

I've had my 2 phones since Sat, the 12th of April. I first attempted set up on the 14th.
Not only was I not told, or do I see anywere on the site that you can't hook up 2 phones at the same time! That's why I bought 2! So far I've been on the chat line for over 14 hours, that's right 14 and counting. I keep getting the same run around...and no phone! The first one I register and picked a number but they never received the email to verify. the second I tried to register. It said double click because of an error. When I did it assigned me a number, no choice there but i did get the emails!!!!!Neither phone works. One won't take promptas so I can't set up the voice, do my banking, etc. the other gives a sound like circuits are busy. The customer service is a joke. 14 hours, no service PLEASE.... What's wrong with them!

Posted by: Delpha Renard at April 17, 2008 4:28 PM

I am having a tough time getting my MJ to work as it just gives an error that cannot connect to the registration server. I have tried the magicfix and the upgrade (after formatting the device per the tech chat guy) but to no avail.

Has anyone else seen this error? Any issues with browser?

"
magicJack was unable to contact our registration server.

Please check your internet connection.

If you can browse other web pages, it means our server is temporarily down. Please restart the phone again in a few minutes if it is not ready to call.

We apologize for any inconvenience.
"

Posted by: Saadia at April 19, 2008 12:01 AM

This is on Escapee's RV Club
http://escapees.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/372602561/m/1251031592?r=1251031592#1251031592
They actually tried out Magic Jack on a satellite internet connection. For all of you who are still wondering if it will work, here is your answer:

psyflyjohn

Posted December 17, 2007 03:47 PM Hide Post
A friend of mine just got one and likes it. We are going to try it out on my Hughes satellite INTERNET system next week as an alternative to Skype. I'll report how well it works-out.

Posts: 70 | Location: San Diego | Registered: February 03, 2003 Reply With QuoteEdit MessageReport This Post
Ignored post by psyflyjohn posted December 17, 2007 03:47 PM Show Post
psyflyjohn

Posted January 01, 2008 05:02 PM Hide Post
Well, we tried it out on the Hughes satellite internet system, and it worked poorly. On the satellite side, you can hear the senders voice well, but your response breaks up badly.

In a phone to phone situation, MagicJack worked well.

Posted by: Jeff at April 19, 2008 2:11 AM

I can say plenty of good thigs about Magic Jack. I'm in the telephone business and I know good products when I see them. This is almost a good product. I'll write a positive review after I get my tech support problem resolved. Here is how I spent over 40 minutes on something that shuld have taken 40 seconds.

General Info
Chat start time Apr 21, 2008 6:34:46 PM EST
Chat end time Apr 21, 2008 7:16:43 PM EST
Duration (actual chatting time) 00:41:57
Operator Jonahlour
Chat Transcript
info: Please wait for a site operator to respond.
info: You are now chatting with 'Jonahlour'
Jonahlour: Hello, how may I help you?
Maxine: My name is actually Alonzo. I purchased several units. This one was for my Mother Maxine. I activated it last night. There seems to be no choice for area code 661. We have other MJs for area code 661. We had to get a number that is area code 650 we need a 661 number
Jonahlour: Thank you for bringing up your concern with us, Alonzo.
Maxine: well how can you help me
Jonahlour: I apologize for the incinvinience it cause you.
Jonahlour: The area code 661 is not yet available, Alonzo.
Maxine: With all due respect you are not listening to me. I have several Magic Jack units with 661 numbers
Jonahlour: My apologies.
Jonahlour: Do you mean area code 650?
Maxine: Sorry my friend.... you still are not listening...I have purchased about 5 MJs. All of them have 661 numbers except the one I activated last night...I had to get 650
Maxine: I need one for area code 661
Jonahlour: Please visit the site my.magicjack.com to change your area code.
Maxine: 661 was not offered to me when I signed up...even though it was previously......are you saying that it will be available now
Maxine: I think I may need to have you transfer this log to your supervisor so that I can get this issue resolved
Jonahlour: The area code 661 is not yet available, Alonzo. We will be releasing more area codes in the future at which time you could switch to your local area code. For now you can pick which ever code you like.
Maxine: explain to me how I have 4 other numbers that are Magic Jack including 661-998-8XXX
Jonahlour: Can I have your full name please?
Maxine: Alonzo FXXXXX
Jonahlour: Thank you
Jonahlour: Hello, how may I help you?
Maxine: Are you kidding me.... we've been chatting for a 1/2 hour
Jonahlour: Sorry, please disregard the last message.
Jonahlour: One moment please..
Maxine: You are taking a long time to resond to my messages ...maybe because you're trying to speak to more than one person at a time
Jonahlour: I sincerely apologize, Maxine.
Maxine: Supervisor please
Jonahlour: I check your account and you have five magicjack number.
Maxine: Yes I think I already said that
Maxine: Can you see what phone numbers I have
Maxine: Yes I think I already said that
Jonahlour: Let me check that for you.
Jonahlour: May I know what are the magicjack nubmer you have please?
Jonahlour: number*
Maxine: the new one?
Maxine: 650-739-XXXX
Jonahlour: The magicjack number you have.
Maxine: I have sewveral.... the 650 number I was assigned last night. I previously have 4-5 661 numbers I had no option last night for a 661 number I need one
Maxine: I've been chatting her for almost an hour. I need you to change my 650-739-XXXX number to a 661 number .....like the other 661 numbers I already have and please send me an email regarding this. I've been her too long and must end this chat session.
Jonahlour: Please don't hesitate to chat us back Maxine.
Maxine: what are you going to do for me?????
Jonahlour: I apologize, 661 area code is not yet available.
info: Your chat transcript will be sent to tXXXX@aol.com at the end of your chat.

Posted by: Alonzo at April 22, 2008 11:42 AM

What they do not tell you about Magic Jack is that it requires your ISP (Internet Service Provider) to have TCP PORT #80 and #443 turned on and not blocked.

Many ISPs routinely block incoming data at TCP 80 to eliminate un-wanted viruses. This is the common way hackers introduce viruses.
Many ISPs block TCP Port #80 in order to limit peer to peer connections (which is basically what Magic Jack is.)

I am returning my Magic Jack because my ISP has TCP Port #80 permanently blocked, so Magic Jack will not work on my computer.

I also highly suspect that the "experts" answering your questions here on this forum are "ringers' employed by Magic Jack.

THE THING WILL NOT WORK WITH ANY MACS EXCEPT INTEL BASED COMPUTERS.

Posted by: Danny Brown at April 22, 2008 1:03 PM

PREVIOUSLY I AM NAMED ALONZO, BUT IT IS ME AGAIN

After Magic Jack's Tech Chat folks had me screw around with my computer trying to make my Magic Jack work I NOW CANNOT GET ANYTHING TO WORK ON MY USB PORTS!

The Tech Chat people had me do so much stuff that I may have messed up the ports.
WHO KNOWS?
They certainly will be no help.

I ALSO SEE NO PROVISION FOR GETTING A REFUND ALTHOUGH I HAVE FILLED OUT THE RETURN WEBPGE AND HAVE AN RMA NUMBER.
We'll see!
Looks like I tossed $49.00 down the drain!

Posted by: Danny Brown at April 22, 2008 1:41 PM

My husband and I were excited about the MJ. Well the only problem im having is recieving calls. Does anyone know how to fix this problem. My calls go out but when I call from my cell when my mom call from a land line in New Mexico all we got was,Nothing, I've done the upgrades can someone help. Thanks for your responds in advance.

Posted by: Cathy Shoals at April 22, 2008 8:10 PM

My Experience initially with magic is as follows.

1. First day worked great.
2. Second day gave to my girlfriend and her family to use. Then we got fast busy signal for all LD/LOCAL calls, however, we could call out for 1800#s and free 411 which is actually an 1800FREE411. I have known about this for years which are an advertisement based 411 service (No big deal on 411 ads).
3. Tried to get help on the issue and knew I wouldn?t get a good rep for $20 dollars a year and I was right. There seems to have been a switch issue in the 443 exchange. After trying to have them trouble shoot in the right area IE not my PC! They asked me to wait 12 hours to resolve the issue. Being that I just put this thing in for her and her family it wasn?t looking good on me. I told the rep what the issue was and that I work in the telecommunication industry at that point he offered to forward the issue to their engineering department (I don?t think they have one to be truthful)
4. I then changed the telephone number assigned to us and thus fixed the outbound call issue due to the switch not routing our calls LD/local calls.
5. Moreover, at that point I told them what the issue was and advised them to fix the issue because all 443 customers were most likely were impacted. However, I doubt it was Magic Jacks fault but the combination of several phone companies not routing calls at the 443 local switches.
6. I asked for a credit to be applied to my account for spending four hours and driving 60 miles total to trouble shooting their own network issue. At today?s gas prices I just blew about 10 $ in gas and four hours of my time! They never called me back or email me as they said they would with some sort of credit. I was not surprised as it?s a 20 dollar service. You get what you pay for.


My personal Opinion: Bad to no customer service, you are on your own. However, this was expected due to the price of the service per year and I wouldn?t want to pay more for the service just to get a better customer service response. I normally can fix my own issues. Although they should have an official outage board were designated reps could post issues going on with the service so you don?t go crazy trying to fix and issue that has nothing to do with your personal computer. This may seem like a bad post but thus far I got what I expected and I would recommend it for people whom want to carry the unit abroad (internationally) and use this free long distance service. But if you do not have a cell phone as regular line as a back up I would not solely rely on this for your phone service.

Posted by: John at April 23, 2008 1:27 AM

****DONT BUY THIS (Magic Jack)PRODUCT.***

It worked fine for me for about 3 Months and now It Was working fine for about 2 months then Certin numbers it gives me Busy Signal 3 times then it hangs up. You can not call them u only have to use their CHAT online. After talking to them for over 2 hours of uninstalling, Reinstalling, Cleaning the Registry, Rebooting, Trying on another PC Nothing worked. I do recive calls, i can make call to certin number but alot of LOCAL number dont work. According to Magic Jack I am Dialing the Wrong number??and maybe the other party is using the phone .

I checked online and saw other people had the same problems.
///////////////////////////////////////////////
Please Dont Waste Your Money on this, you might be better of trying www.skype.com or some other service.
/////////////////////////////////////////////

Posted by: Jasbir at April 23, 2008 5:09 AM

Magic Junk is more like it. We signed up for the free trial and had nothing but issues with the poor quality of the service. The problems go even deeper than the lack of a quality phone call, but to the lackluster adherence to customer service. MJ�s customer service is limited to an instant message format. After you become frustrated trying to resolve any issues in that format, you will find there is no recourse to actually talk to a person. They are not allowed to talk to you over the phone. Any request for additional help is completely ignored. If this is how they treat a potential customer, just how poor is the service when you actually commit to them. Be careful, because it is obvious they will not commit to you.

Posted by: Mike at April 23, 2008 7:51 PM

Like I posted before it?s a 20 Dollar service you get what you pay for. It?s great to lower your cell phone usage and take abroad to save on international calling cards. I would never use any VOIP service as a primary line except for CDV which does not utilize the internet for its VOIP service. Quality on voice is dependant on your computer and internet speed. If you use the computer while you?re talking on the phone you may hear some latent sound issues. This is because of the CPU / application lag not the actual service it's self. When the computer is Idle and on an internet connection above 10 K = 80 kbs you should have good quality.

Other issues I hope they address later:

1. They need to make a router or Ethernet version like Skype and Vonage so you won?t have the CPU lag issue and save on power by leaving your computer on 24/7/365. If you do leave it on just for the phone service you will not save money but waste on Electricity.

2. For a USB device they should make it smaller like a memory stick there is to much open air space on this device. You should be able to fit on a key chain like Vonage.

3. They should create online forums where customers can help each other instead of the useless customer service they have now.

4. When you get a call in or place a call out the application will bring to the front of your pc, thus causing havoc when trying to play a game online. They can resolve this issue by doing suggestion 1.


Some good pros:

1. CHEAP!

2. You can send to friend in other countries to give them a local number in the US. I'm doing this with my girlfriend?s family whom live in Honduras. Please note that its 33 cents a min to call Honduras! Therefore this device will save her more money in 1 day that the service costs for 1 year! Once her mother has this device she can call all her relatives in the USA / Canada not just one daughter.

3. This will work intermittently on satellite connections and if your in the Military you could possibly use it on the ships internet to make free calls home on the ship verses paying the 1$ per min Satelite phones they have on the ship!


In conclusion if you know the pros and the cons of this service you will buy it. However, like I said before I would not recommend this device as a primary telephone line. You should have a cell or cheap land based line for 911 etc.


Just my thoughts
John

Posted by: John at April 23, 2008 11:20 PM

How can I find out if I can get a local area code before I purchase the Magic Jack device? I am in Birmingham, AL and if I can get a local number I will definitely consider switching.

Posted by: Mandi at April 24, 2008 2:06 PM

Posted by: Mike at April 24, 2008 2:49 PM

We installed MJ on my wifes computer. Overall it works great, she can gab with her mother to her hearts content.
Later we found she has a nasty computer virus so tough that she will have to reformat her harddrive. She has all the firewall and virus protection up and running. Could it be possible for someone to gain access to her PC through MJ?

Posted by: Russ at April 24, 2008 7:02 PM

I ordered 2 each magic jacks. the post office delivered the items while I was on vacation and left them on my door step and they were stolen. The post office took a complaint and told me to contact the company for replacements. I could not find a phone number so I went on the web site for help (replacements due to they should be insured) but have received no help through the chat line. They said someone would contact me and that was 3 days ago. I spent 1 hour on the chat line before they told me that. No one has contacted me. I do not have the product. I have been charged for the product: 2 magic jacks as well as 2 extra years of service. I can get no support. PLEASE HELP ME GET WHAT I PAID FOR.

Posted by: easter at April 24, 2008 11:11 PM

Dispute the charge on your credit card.

Posted by: JohnT at April 25, 2008 7:47 AM

I am from Canada and just woundering if anyone knows when the Canadian numbers will be made available?
Regards.

Posted by: Jim Moore at April 26, 2008 1:26 PM

What if after a year I know longer want it for another year?

What happens if it stops working?

Posted by: David at April 26, 2008 2:03 PM

I tried to install magic jack and each time an xp box came up asking me what I wanted to do acquire picures or do nothing . There is no way the autorun mj box can be activated

Posted by: steve duncan at April 26, 2008 2:19 PM

i have a wireless pc w verizon as my isp. mj works fine but occasionally the words re broken up at my end but always broken up on other end + recvr cant understand me. verizon sez my internat access is direct. how can i solve the breaking up of words? thnx 362926

Posted by: rj at April 28, 2008 9:59 AM

I tried Vonage and was ripped off for $83.00 on their free two month trial offer. DO NOT USE THESE PEOPLE.
I now have MAGIC JACK and LOVE IT!
Dan, don't sell out to the big guys...pleeeese!
Let us have a chance to finally get even with them.
Its been too much, too expensive, too long for those greedy bums. I look at every item on my phone bill each month and it is the norm for them to have to issue me a credit almost every month. I wonder if they would be in business if every person did what I do and challenge them on their monthly phone charges?
We should realize that any new technology can have some bugs but let's all give MJ a fair chance. I have had NO PROBLEM WITH MAGIC JACK.
LONG LIVE MAGIC JACK!
Happy in Georgia.

Posted by: Samuel Hay at April 28, 2008 10:48 AM

When would it be possible to use it with Linux ? To test MJ I had to install XP in a virtual machine on my computer.
One clear advantage of skype (despite the price) is the real portability. I also expect MJ to be portable and run on Linux driven computers.

Posted by: Lester Lutino at April 29, 2008 3:39 AM

I'm in Canada and have not ordered a MJ yet but was wondering if it works the same up here. Can I call landlines in Canada and the US for free as well as other MJ users?

Posted by: Debbie at April 29, 2008 1:08 PM

For those living in Canada here is a website to address your questions on when Canadian numbers will be available.

http://www.themagicjack.ca/

Posted by: debbie at April 29, 2008 1:12 PM

I am in Tucson, AZ, area code 520. When I got my first MJ the only city available in my area code was Casa Grande which is long distance. Not a problem since I use it for out going calls.
When I got my second MJ they had a 480 area code available (East Phoenix). I have been waiting for a Tucson number for several months.
I checked MJ website today and I guess they used up all the numbers in 520 Casa Grande since 520 is not longer available. Also 480 East Phoenix is no longer available due to the same reason.

I sure hope MJ get a Tucson prefix soon.

Posted by: Russ at April 29, 2008 1:32 PM

I received my magic jack about a week ago and installed it and was making phone calls in less than 2 minutes, however, I have 2 friends who can not get thru to my line no matter what they do. Whenever they call me they get a message saying "all circuits are busy now, please try your call again later." I am able to dial out to their phones just fine but they can not dial in. The 2 people that can't call in are my sister and best friend who live just a few cities away. Is anyone else having this problem? I have tried the magic fix, opening the proper ports on my computer and did the live chat for help but nothing works!! If I can't get the problem fixed I will most likely send the product back. Any help would be appriciated!!

Posted by: Shandra at April 29, 2008 4:01 PM

When is Magic Jack going to get some Alaska area codes? How about the other states where no area codes are active or pending? I bought 2 jacks and now I'm returning them because there are no area codes in Alaska. The other problem is the jacks tie up all of my drives when plugged in - what's up with that?

Posted by: Michael at April 30, 2008 12:19 AM

Please wait for a site operator to respond.
You are now chatting with 'Jonahlour'
Jonahlour: Hello, how may I help you?
Jake: Hello, please cancel my service & make a refund. 201-*******
Jonahlour: May I know why you want to return the magicjack please?
Jake: It doesn't work for international calls as advertized
Jonahlour: Please try to dial 011 + country code + city code + local number.
Jake: hold on
Jonahlour: Take your time, Jake.
Jake: says "please wait while I'm routing your call", then silence
Jonahlour: When did the issue started please?
Jake: tried it 2 weeks ago, tried it today
Jake: need a number?
Jonahlour: Did you purchase the International Prepaid minutes?
Jake: paid $10
Jonahlour: I see. Thank you.
Jonahlour: Have you tried calling to any international number?
Jake: last time tried 0117921962****
Jonahlour: Thank you, Jake.
Jake: I was lucky to successfully call Moscow obsolete area code 7095. There are no such codes anymore
Jonahlour: Okay. Did it happen just today, Jake?
Jake: yes it did
Jonahlour: That's good enough.
Jake: wait, be more specific please. Did it happen just today, what???
Jonahlour: I mean, did you try to make a call to Moscow today?
Jake: no, it was about two weeks ago I haven't been able to make any international calls since
Jonahlour: I apologize for misunderstanding.
Jake: it's ok as long as i'm either able to call or get a refund
Jonahlour: Please unplug your phone from your magicJack and leave your magicJack connected to the computer. Now place a call using the softphone dial pad on your screen. If the call goes through, please try using a different phone with your magicJack.
Jake: "You have 166 minutes. Please wait, your call has being routed" Then beeps then silence
Jonahlour: I suggest to please try to make a call within 24 hours, Jake.
Jake: I suggest you cancel my service within 24 hours, how about that?
Jonahlour: We are doing some upgrades, our engineers are working to get them completed as fast as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
Jake: Do you guarantee that I can speak to my friends in Russia within 24 hours using splendid MagicJack?
Jonahlour: However, we rest assure that these upgrades are being worked upon by our engineers right now, and that these upgrades will be available at the soonest time possible. Please bear with us.
Jake: Meanwhile, would you please go ahead and cancel my service? Because I'm ready when you guys are.
Jonahlour: I apologize, Jake. However, this will be done in the maximum timeframe of 24 hours.
Jake: Please be more specific. this will be done in the maximum timeframe of 24 hours. "this" meaning what exactly?
Jake: I'm going to disseminate our conversation across different blogs
Jonahlour: That these upgrades will be available at the soonest time possible within the maximum timeframe of 24 hours. Please bear with us.
Jake: So, you're saying, if I'm not able to call St.Petersburg, Russia, in 24 hours, using your service, I'll get my refund? Is this what you're saying?
Jonahlour: Please chat us back if you still encountered the same issue within 24 hours.
Jake: Still, the question remains open. Can I get my refund NOW? And the answer I expect is YES or NO.
Jonahlour: I apologize, we can't give your refund right now Jake.
Jake: Well, if you're not authorized, I can surely understand that. But, if you can forward me to somebody who can, that would be greatly appreciated.
Jonahlour: Let me check it for you.
Jonahlour: Thank you for waiting. I apologize, our tier 2 support is not yet available as of the moment.
Jake: Hereby you are authorized to pass on my request of cancelling my service to tiers from -10 to 20 support
Jonahlour: Yes, Jake. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Jonahlour: Please try to make a call within 24 hours, Jake.
Jake: Well, I guess, it'll be fun if we can get it enough publicity in the blogs
Jonahlour: My apologies, Jake.
Jake: Are you in India? What part?
Jonahlour: We are from Florida. Do you really want to return your magicjack, Jake?
Jake: Well, yes. Because international calling cards are everywhere. And, as I said, MagicJack has been pretty useless so far
Jonahlour: Are you still under the 30 day trial period?
Jake: Yes
Jonahlour: Please click the link below
Jonahlour: http://my.magicjack.com/returns.html
Jonahlour: Please include the reason on comments why you want to return the magicjack, then choose the return option and click Submit Request.
Jonahlour: Is there anything else I may help you with today?
Jake: 1. How do I use this RMA? and 2. How do I get back my international prepaid minutes?
Jonahlour: To return your magicjack, you will need to request for an RMA number.
Jonahlour: You will be send an email confirmation that you already return your magicjack and the reimbursement will take 4 - 10 days.
Jake: What about my dear international minutes lost forever?
Jake: It's $10
Jonahlour: I apologize, we can't refund your international prepaid minutes.
Jake: It's 300 roubles
Jake: Are you kidding? It's three times my monthly salary!
Jonahlour: Once the magicJack arrives at our end we will process your refund right away.
Jake: Please don't forget, I'm copying our conversation
Jake: You're saying, my minutes will be refunded sa well?
Jonahlour: Thank you for your patience. I will transfer you to a higher level of support. Please hold while I transfer you.
Please wait while I transfer the chat to the best suited site operator.

Posted by: Jake at April 30, 2008 8:55 PM

Hello All,

Recently I've made a few posts about the Pros and the Cons with this service. I just want to update you on my last few customer chat experiences to you so you can make your own judgments on this product.

Cons: As posted before I had trouble with two phone exchanges in Maryland not routing local calls and all I would get is a fast busy signal instead of routing the local calls. The one exchange I know for sure does not work as of last week was 443 663 **** numbers. I had to change my number several times to make the service work to be able to call local numbers. In fact I took me one too many times and they wanted to charge me another ten dollars till I found a local number that would route my local calls. I had to argue with the chat customer service lady and be escalated to another rep that would finally change my number for me for free. It?s sad to note they are not aware of the bugs in their own service. I have made about ten chat logs all bad with the exception of one when they changed my number for free. It Might also be note worthy that if you start getting upset at the situation they will always say the same things like? it will work in 24 hours? and they are doing upgrades ( even though its 2 pm in the day and SM are done at NIGHT!). Don't be fooled this is a lie to get you off the chat line as soon as possible so they can BS another customer on why its their pc fault and not their service. Another great thing is they stopped sending me my chat logs because they know im posting what happened to me so I have copied pasted them in note pad before I closed the box. It seems they are trying to save their jobs or contract. So remember to copy paste all your logs in notepad before hitting the email me link for the log. The customer support reps are not able to give any credits on the account so don?t bother asking , just make an attempt save your logs the best way possible and then do a charge back to visa for the full amount you requested. Make sure to pay with visa so you can protect yourself against these kinds of problems down the road. In general I'm disgusted with the outsourced customer service they are better of not having any at all. The attempts to get an issue resolved are in reality just a waste of your time, thus a waste of your money. It also might be note worthy to say if they say some one will call you back in 24 hours be assured this will not happen! This service is not for non savvy end users

Pros: Service is working now with good quality calls and its only$ 20 dollars a year, like I said before you get what you pay for.

Posted by: John at May 1, 2008 6:33 AM

I do not have this product but just saw the commercial and noticed that they do not mention a couple of things:

1. If you lose power, you will be without phone service. Even if you are going thru a laptop, since it goes thru your modem (dialup/sat/cable) when the power goes the modem won't work.

2. you can NOT use the system to make 911 calls because the service doesn't go thru the phone company in your area they will not have a record of your internet number

3. your computer must be ON in order to recieve or make calls, so what you save on long distance phone calls you make up for in electric bills.

4. people with 'solicitor blocker' on their phone will not be able to get calls from you.

5. you will STILL get a monthly phone bill ... houses need to have basic service in order to have 911 service and I think its federal law that all residences have to have 911 service.

Posted by: ginger at May 1, 2008 11:03 AM

I've had magicjack for two weeks, despite my local area code was not available. That didn't matter to me as my family is all over the country anyhow. All I can say is for 20 bucks a year. You get what you pay for. Not one person could understand me, my voice was choppy and sounded like I was in a tunnel. I used it continuously with the hopes that the magicfix would work, which I ran numerous times. I'm sorry but it is going back today.

Posted by: Candi at May 1, 2008 1:14 PM

How can I change my phone numper? I live in the area code 865 and they gave me 615. They are both in Tn. but 615 is long distance for my frinds.

Posted by: Robert Copeland at May 1, 2008 1:30 PM

have used magicjack for sometime and even though the product works extremely well there is a problem.There service department does not.Have a problem where it switched over to mic/headset and cannot get it to switch back to phone.Have tried everything they tell you to fix this problem and nothing works.They have a spot that says speak to live person.Well this live person does not exist.Always takes you back to the same page were this live person don't exist and no phone numbers to contact.It is a shame your customer service is no where near as good as your product.It would be nice to be able to use this product that use to work so well.

Posted by: T MIlls at May 1, 2008 6:29 PM

John is here again with an update.

Here is one of my last transcripts with customer service where they ended the session without my permission (hung up on me).

Please wait for a site operator to respond.

You are now chatting with 'Martha'

Martha: Hello, how may I help you?

Your chat transcript will be sent to j**********@yahoo.com at the end of your chat.

John: Yes I was told several times over and over again I would be given free promo codes for each line I have for troubles I was having with my service

John: I’ve been told several times some was going to call me in 24 hours and never has

John: I have 3 magic jack #s

Martha: ok

John: I was to get a free year promo code for each because of a call routing issue with your service

Martha: Have you received redemption code for all of them from us?

John: I have not received a thing yet

John: nor have I been called

John: as I was told several times I would be

Martha: Thank you for your patience. I will transfer you to a higher level of support. Please hold while I transfer you.

Please wait while I transfer the chat to the best suited site operator.

You are now chatting with 'Pauline'

Pauline: Hi John.

John: hello

John: please read above text

John: for my issue

Pauline: Thank you for addressing your concern here and my apologies for the inconvenience that cause you.

Pauline: Please give me moment so that I can retrieve your problem from your previous chat and try me best to resolve your problem.

John: ok

Pauline: Could you please explain me about the Promo Codes that you are talking about?

John: redemption code for additional years

John: I had major issues with all 3 of my magic jacks and had to fix the issue myself by change all the numbers

John: you were not routing local calls for 2 exchanges here in Maryland 443 663 and 410 9XX

John: I got no help or resolution form here

Pauline: I apologize for the inconvenience caused. May I have your order number please?

John: and I was told because of it I would get redemption code for additional years because I lost all my numbers etc and I lost my free telephone changes

Pauline: May I have your order number please?

John: order numbers are DTXXXXXXX and DTXXXXXXX, telephone numbers are 410 781 XXXX, 410 781 XXXX, and 410 781 XXXX

Pauline: Thank you for the Information.

Pauline: Please wait while I check that for you

Pauline: I have researched your problem and would like to inform you that we send the codes for extending the license only in case you order for one.

John: the problem happened on all 3

Pauline: I would like to confirm if you had ordered for the Promo codes?

John: I was told I was to be given 1 for each line

John: it’s not about ordering them

John: I was to get them free because of the trouble I had

John: I’m starting to get upset with all the time I have to spend with you guys to full fill your promises, and worse I have to fix my own problems that resolve in your own networks

Pauline: I highly apologize for the inconvenience caused.

Pauline: I understand what you feel and I will try my best to help you

John: then you can give me what I was promised

Pauline: I would like to confirm as to who promised you about this?

John: oh god level 2 person like your self who also was to forward my issue to a engineer dept which probably never happened because your still having that issue with those 2 exchanges

John: if you won’t honor your promises just say so, and I will report this on consumerist.com will all my text logs that I have

Pauline: One moment please...

John: this is getting old for me, and you haven’t ever called me back once as you have stated 4 different times you would have

Pauline: while I go through the previous transcript

John: please do

John: and you have yet to fix the call routing problems in 443 exchanges

Pauline: I would request you to please mail your problem to rikard.bone@ymax.com.

Pauline: I am sure he will be able to help you out.

John: and as for my credits?

John: as I was promised

Pauline: I sincerely apologize that I could not help you much today.

John: ok you will see this posted on consumerist

Pauline: I would request you to please mail your problem to rikard.bone@ymax.com. He will take care of the problem that you are facing.

John: I'm tired of being lied to by principal

Pauline: I truly understand your concern.

Pauline: Thank you for your cooperation and patience.

John: and all the time you said some one called me what about that

John: just lies?

Pauline: No, we do help our costumers in the best possible ways

John: I have also copied this IM in notepad as the last time by some strange force my log was not sent to me via email.

John: you’re doing a bad job

Pauline: There might be some delay in the verification process.

John: when you lie to people and waste their time

John: I was told 24 hours 3 days in a row!

Pauline: I apologize.

John: I want was promised to me, I don’t need an apology

Pauline: I would request you to please mail your problem to rikard.bone@ymax.com. He will take care of the problem that you are facing.

John: if not people will know

Chat session has been terminated by the site operator.


I prompted for the transcripts to be sent to me. They were never sent I wonder why. Therefore, I had to copy paste them from the log box.


They do not empower their customer service agents to do anything for the customers and are basically all scripted lines from them.

Horrible customer service you get what you pay for.

Posted by: John at May 2, 2008 6:18 AM

Des anybody have a telephone number to call these people? I have had this over a week and it still does not work properly. I can make calls but the person on the other end cannnot hear me - any suggestions? I have tried the laundry list. Thanks!

Posted by: patti at May 4, 2008 10:21 AM

I am reading on this forum inconsistancies in billing,doubles charges, etc, anyway Paypal can be used for payment?

Posted by: Andy at May 5, 2008 3:04 AM

Andy - Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover. PayPal is not accepted.

Posted by: FrankT at May 5, 2008 6:37 AM

patti
The parent company for Magic Jack is Ymax Communications.
561-586-3380
888-230-0060

PO Box 6785
West Palm Beach, FL 33405 or

5700 Georgia Ave.
West Palm Beach, Florida 33405

The inventor of the Magic Jack is Dan Borislow - dan@magicjack.com

Its amazing what you can find with a little googleing.

Posted by: Allen at May 5, 2008 7:50 AM

Received MJ on 5/2/08. Set up device as directed and the unit worked fine for the first few calls. Then the following problen arose. Can not get dial tone on my cordless Panasonic phone. If I use the soft pad on the computer screen, when I get the "Ready to Call" message, the parties phone I called rings and when anwered I can hear the party, but they can not hear me. I have spent countless hours trying to resolve problem on MJ live chat service, explaining problem to several different agents. Each has responded with the same supposed corrective answers, still have same problem. I presently have Vonage as phone service and it works fine with Verizon Naked line DSL connection. My wall jack line connects directly to the Verizon Westell Modem. The Ethernet port connects to the Vonage Modem with a Blue colored cable. A second port on this modem connects to the computer with a yellow cable A telephone line jack connects to a caller ID box, the telephone base transmitter connects to another jack on the ID box. For the MJ setup, I connected the MJ into the USB port on the computer and disconnected the tel. line going to the Vonage modem and connected to the tel jack on the MJ device. I also tried disconnecting the Vonage modem and connecting the Ethernet port of the Verizon Westell directly to the computer. Both setups had the same results. I was told by the chat agents to get a AC power Hub to plug into the USB Port of the computer to boost power of USB port. Did not correct problem. Have been told to try a corded telephone, but got rid of all old phones years ago. I still do not have a dial tone on the phone only back groud static. If I reconnect the Vonage system, every thing works fine. At this point I SUSPECT the MagicJack is defective. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Posted by: Richard Graeber at May 6, 2008 1:29 PM

i'm really frustrated! I've tried chatting with customer care about being billed immediately, rather than after the 30 day trial passed, and they insist that they have not and will not bill me until after the trial time is up, and that my bank is mistaken! yet here I am with my bank saying I have to provide them a tracking number to prove I've returned them. I'd rather work it out with mj, but all the numbers I can find have full mail boxes and can't take my message. I don't want to return it, but they're leaving me no choice. help!

Posted by: mark at May 6, 2008 3:52 PM

I also have the problem with them offering a 30 day trial on the info commericals and online and if you decide to keep it you will be billed on the 31st day. Well, I haven't even received my magicjacks yet and already my money is also taken. I was rest assured that the money would not be taken from my account that there would be a dollar hold but nothing more for me not to worry about it. Well, this morning I check and $103.95 was taken from my account 2 times and that was for 2 magicjacks and still will owe them next month for the 2 magicjacks themselves. I contacted the ONLINE customer support which is the only support they have and he said that I was billed for the shipping charges upfront and I said well that didn't say that but that would be fine I didn't mind but it doesn't cost $200 and some dollars for shipping. He then stated that it was because I was billed the plans upfront and next month the magicjacks after stating previously that I would only have $1.00 hold put on my account. And then after arguing he came up with the charges for the services upfront. I also can't get a phone that doesn't have full mailboxes. Oh and also the CSR said that they would fix the webiste immediately, only because I said I was going to contact the BBB and I stated well what about all of us that have already been scammed. And he said Thank you Tasha and disconnected me. Is this really the Customer Service that you want and the scam that went with the oh so great FREE TRIAL!! Yeah, don't get screwed over on this one. And also, no one will ever contact you back with the email that was given above. Which I haven't gotten one anyway. I just wanted my concern addressed. can you imagine trying to get help online if you have a problem...Yeah Right!!

Posted by: Tasha at May 7, 2008 11:33 AM

I emailed Dan Borislow at the above address with a question and he immediately responded and we had a several email exchange. He was very helpful.

Posted by: Linda at May 8, 2008 11:14 AM

My satellite connection works fine with my magic jack. You mentioned in your review that it did not work with satellite. When it arrived I plugged it into the usb on my sony vaio and in a few minutes I was making calls.

Posted by: Judith at May 9, 2008 6:22 PM

Judith, thanks for the information, I am glad it is working properly with your satellite broadband connection.
I tested mine with cable broadband, I don't have a satellite connection. I was relying on information that I received from the Magic Jack company.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at May 9, 2008 6:44 PM

Majic Jack is a SCAM! Customer support says the same thing everytime you contact them, I did four times. They run you through a bunch of ridiculous things to test and then say they will get back to you or at the end they hang up when you insist on a refund. They have no telephone numbers, no address. I suspect that there is no customer support just a computerized response system that makes it appear you are talking to a real person. Don't fall for it!

Posted by: Joe at May 11, 2008 2:56 PM

I received my MJ on 04/07/08. I setup the device as instructed and it work fine for 4 weeks. Setting up v-mail was an issue but per the tech-chat service it was being updated. Still have a problem setting v-mail. But the bigger issue started on 5/10/08 ironically after the 30day trial ended. When I recieve calls and when answered I can not hear the other party on the line but they can hear me and of course I had spent nearly almost 3hrs of my Saturday chatting and fixing this problem with the techsupport line switching phones and reloading and formatting and even asked to put the extension wire that came with the MJ and hook it back on my USB port. nothing work their were serveral support individuals that chatted with me unitl finaling they new the problem. I needed to upload my internet because MJ need 128btye to operated correctley. I responded, how can a product operate and function correctley for nearly 4 wks and now it dose not. I don't understand is this true? Do I have to upgrade my yahoo services inorder for it to run properly? which mean added cost monthly then my orignal cost on my internet? dont understand solution. I am not happy with this product due to support not being knowledgable of the product and now its my computer causing the problem not their problem. No other solution from them other than upgrade your internet. O! by the way it still not fixed.

Posted by: Renee at May 13, 2008 12:15 PM

It would have been nice for the TV ad to say that the MJ does not work with macs. I have three macs and ordered these now I need to just return them. Also, after reading this blog I think the customer service must be horrible. Where is the real live person in this, Dan?

Posted by: lisa at May 15, 2008 8:18 PM

Is there a way to find out what area codes are available before purchasing a MJ?

Posted by: Jack at May 20, 2008 1:02 PM

Link to Magic Jack area codes:
http://www.magicjack.com/1/areacodes.asp

Posted by: FrankT at May 20, 2008 1:20 PM

IF I HAVE MORE THAN ONE TELEPHONE,DO I NEED MORE THAN ONE MAGICJACK? THANK YOU.

Posted by: Darlyne stovall at May 23, 2008 3:16 PM

I love this Magic Jack! I have TWC Digital Phone and it sucks, I use MJ all the time, I have since canceled my home service, and use only cell phone and Magic Jack!

Posted by: WC at May 24, 2008 11:12 AM

Just wanted to add a quick fix that has worked for me. I have had MJ for 2 months and for the most part it works great. I have mine connected on a Toshiba satellite notebook using naked DSL (which is available in North Florida through ATT) One problem I was having is that the caller ID wasn't working on my actual phone but it was working on the phone screen that shows up on my computer. I tried MJ customer sv who basically just kept telling me that MJ isn't always compatible with caller ID. Hey..I didn't buy that since the caller ID WAS coming up on the phone screen on the computer. I did some research and it seemed like there was a way to fix it by splicing some wires and such but that was more than I was willing to mess with so I had just resolved that I wasn't going to have caller ID on my telephone. No big deal...then I was just messin around one day and tried to hook up 2 phones to the MJ, I used a regular phone jack that is made to plug two phones into it, and all of the sudden my caller ID began to work on my telephone! I am not sure how it fixed it but it did and has been fixed for almost a month now. Very easy fix...so just thought I'd share it in case it can help anyone else. The other drawback for MJ is the 911 service. I actually tested mine and when I call 911 I just get dead air even though it shows tha tmy 911 sv should be working. I am still dealing with MJ on this issue but honestly I am not ready to entrust mine and my family's safety to any voip service. My children are toddlers so they are not adept at phone calls but what I have done was made a board with photos of emergency people to contact (Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles) and numbers next to each one. I then programmed these people's #'s into my one touch dialing for my cell. Then I taught my 3 yr old how to use the one touch dialing on my cell in case of emergency. all he has to do is press and hold the number for the call to go through. The hardest part was teaching him how to hang up and redial the next person on the list if the first contact didn't answer. That way if there is an emergency he can call his Grandpa who will then call 911 with our address since my toddler doesn't know his address and for him to call 911 himself would be useless since they wouldn't be able to trace the call from my cell...well..maybe they could but it would be much to time consuming. I feel like this way is safe and that way we can ditch the landline, get the great deal of MJ and still have measures in place in case of emergencies.

Posted by: Jesse at May 27, 2008 2:39 PM

I ONLY WANT ONE MAGIC JACK ....I think yer robo clerk said I wanted more my fon sliped & maybe I punched a button. I can only use 1 hand & maybe grabed a button when my fon sliped off my sholder
ONLY ....ONE.....ONLY ONE....ONLY ONE......
5/30/08 2:30 MTN TIME
SEND ONLY ONE SEND ONLY ONE
ONLY ONE ONLY ONE
ONLY ONE ONLY ONE
ONLY ONE ONLY ONE 5/30/08 2:30 MTN

Posted by: Richard Miller at May 30, 2008 5:49 AM

I want to return three magicjacks Ineed aa return pacage for a return .and i want a refound on my money

Posted by: jamess needham at May 30, 2008 4:57 PM

I want to return magicjack because I was up set when I was charged a hundred and thirty dollars for this device. TV said it only costed 39.95 and what did I pay for that cost 130.00. give a phone number so I can talk to someone in customer service.

thank you

Posted by: bernice trawick at May 30, 2008 8:59 PM

Bernice,
check out the comment by Allen on May 5, 2008 7:50 AM.

Posted by: FrankT at May 31, 2008 7:07 PM

I ordered the jack with 30 day free trial, no confirmation e-mail came, and there is NO way to contact them due to the stupid "magicfix" closing internet explorer BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE it installed yet! Cutsie video of puppies and the kid do not make me feel warm and fuzzy - I want a CONTACT number. So much for crap. Just called Ymax, mailbox full, won't accept calls. Hmmm. Want it canceled even before receiving the junk!!!

Posted by: wendy at June 2, 2008 5:36 PM

Posted by: Greg at June 2, 2008 6:38 PM

can i accept collect calls with magic jack?

Posted by: deborah at June 12, 2008 11:54 PM

deborah,
no, you cannot accept collect calls with the magic jack

Posted by: FrankT at June 13, 2008 6:39 PM

I have TWC (triple package cable/local/internet)and majic jack won't work with it. I have 10mb/1mb down/up speed yet when I use majicjack, the voice quality is really bad. It is garbled and breaks up. I also have a sprint blackberry that i use as a modem. Speed is 960kpbs/150kpbs . Voice quality was good - no problems. I also bought a hawking broadband booster and it didn't help. I read an earlier post about a port#80, 443 being blocked by internet providers. Could this be the issue?

Posted by: santo at June 15, 2008 10:02 AM

For the price, Magic Jack is GREAT, two problems I have and can find no solution, one is the voicemail does not always work, second, I can not call that number using Sprint cell phones, I called Sprint Cust. Service, and got no help at all. I am interested to hear if anyone else has the same problems and maybe has a solution.

Posted by: Joe at June 25, 2008 7:11 AM

Magic Jack on track to have 550,000 subscribers by the end of the year. .

http://www.twice.com/article/CA6574408.html?nid=2402

Posted by: FrankT at July 1, 2008 7:21 AM

my Magic jack worked great plugged in no problem why would you worrie about collect calls and how do think they would bill it. exept for getting a tel# in smaller towns. this a great 39.95 bargain it's not every thing but if you expect every thing for 39.95 your the idiot great value

Posted by: joe at July 19, 2008 12:08 PM

Dear Sir
I have loss my magic jack service.It tell me to verify my login. Then it said your magic jack has already been activated.Then it said please enter your email address and password to verify your existing account.I have change my internet service so now I can not verify my existing account.My phone number with magic jack is 571-374-0056 My old email address is bigred1@inmind.net

Sincercly

Elbert J. Parker

Posted by: Elbert J. Parker at July 21, 2008 4:54 PM

At $40 for the first year and $20 thereafter it is a good deal � but beware, it is not �the VOIP solution�. It is a great additional resource to those that will continue their traditional phone service and are looking to reduce the long distance charges. Expect to receive adequate voice quality � adequate, but not great. Expect that MJ will successfully call most phone numbers � but not all. Calls to several businesses could not be completed. Also, many cell phone numbers also cause MJ to fail. Online technical support is staffed with dedicated people. However, some of the glitches of the Magic Jack simply cannot be solved. For some customers, it is possible that they may never have a glitch depending upon their calling requirements. For most of us, Magic Jack is not yet the answer. Another note, I tested the endurance of the tech support staff. The glitches that I experienced simply were not solvable and I wanted to take the support to the logical end that it could not be fixed. After 8 to 9 hours on one day with no solution, I was prepared to continue the next day. I made one call. The techie, after reviewing my call history, told me that because of my Operating system (XP with SP3) MagicJack was not compatible. I have 3 computers in the house � one with XP SP2 � and it did not work on that one either. The interesting point here is: WHEN THEY NO LONGER WANT TO CHAT WITH YOU � THEY REMOVE THE ONLY LINK TO TECHNICAL SUPPORT FROM YOUR �MY.MAGICJACK.COM� PAGE � EFFECTIVELY SHUTTING YOU UP.

Posted by: Blackhawk at July 23, 2008 8:02 PM

I have read these reviews, and have had no such problems the two months I have had the Magic Jack.
1. They didn't bill me till the 30 days were up.
2. No gliches, NONE - works with my vista, XP, AND EVEN my Win98 !
3. Works sending faxes, just attached it to my fax machine!
4. Calls are clearer than with my reguar house phone.
5. Works WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD (while attached to my laptop that has a aircard attached)
6. Have not missed ANY calls while it was on a internet connected computer - and have gotten voice mails in my emails during the time it was not connected (there are some times I am out of cell tower range for my air card - thus not connected)

Can not tell you how happy I am that I took a change on this amazing product.

Hollyecho Montgomery
Bangor, PA

Posted by: Hollyecho at July 28, 2008 6:19 AM

I have been using MajicJack for 4 months. Quick overview - it's good. There are minor glitches, but at less than $2 a month, I can easily tolerate them until patches are released. I do have trouble with faxes. I have no issues with XP SP2 and 3 nor my laptop which has Vista home premium. Call quality will suffer about 1 out of 20 calls, usually because i'm downloading a large file, this is consistent with any VOIP i've used. I hang up and re dial the call and it's fine. All customer support issues i've had were fixed through the website and the 'fix' program. I've only found one phone exchange I can't call, but my cell phone works for it. Like I said at less than $2 a month all items mentioned are acceptable as they develop the product. Support them and try it. And to the user who could not find a email for the RMA - I found it with NO problem.

Posted by: Tom at August 3, 2008 12:08 AM

I plugged in the majic jack twice when I first got it and now have two mj icons in mycomputer. How do I remove one? Please do not tell me to call tech support and pay them a hundred and ninteen dollars for something this simple. When they told me the charge for support I almost sent the product back, thanks, Dave

Posted by: Dave at August 12, 2008 10:16 AM

What does the majic jack outlook add-in do? Thanks

Posted by: Dave at August 12, 2008 10:43 AM

Right click on the icon you now longer want and then select delete.

If you use Microsoft Outlook, you can also download a plug-in that adds a toolbar to that program for one-click dialing of a selected contact.

Posted by: FrankT at August 12, 2008 11:22 AM

Lastly (I hope), when I safely remove my external hard drive from the system trey, majic jack shuts off too for some reason. Is there a way to turn it back on with out rebooting the computer? I don't see it in mycompuer or on the desk top... ... Is this the only customer support you have with out paying another hundred and ten dollars??? Thank you.

Posted by: Dave at August 13, 2008 12:27 PM

Hi Dave,
Have you tried Magic Jacks' live chat? Its free.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at August 13, 2008 1:13 PM


Everyone else on this site is apparently having fabulous success but I have gotten terrible reception, the voice cuts out and any time, both mine and the person's I'm speaking with. Please tell me the address to return it and if you have any fixes let me know before I send it back. I'm very dissapointed,

Dave

Posted by: Dave at August 16, 2008 5:50 PM

Dave,
More than a few have commented in this blog that they have had issues with their Magic Jack.

If you want to return the product the best path would to work directly with Magic Jack.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at August 17, 2008 10:02 AM

Well thank you. I would really most like to keep it but aparently that is not an option because I can't get reception and no one has been able to change that. Sorry for venting and I hope you can understand how frustrating this has been. I mean if there is anything else at all that I haven't tried please let me know... Thanks.

Posted by: Dave at August 21, 2008 11:43 PM

Intercept question

How difficult would it be for someone else on my network to listen in on a Magic Jack Call?

Would someone else on the network be able to easily see that the Magic Jack is in use?

Harry

Posted by: Harry at August 29, 2008 11:56 AM

I wish MJ would consider allowing users to disable the voicemail feature. I'm backhauling my entire house and would much prefer my answering machine handle the VM.

Posted by: Scott at August 30, 2008 6:35 PM

Regarding intercepting (listening in) on MJ calls:
Anyone on your network, with a packet capture program can capture and playback you converstion.

I have been successfully using MJ, and have even made calls back to the US from overseas. All you need is a reasonably highspeed (~100kbps) connection... and I can "record" the conversation with packet capture.

Absolutely great for the price.... My PC gives me more grief than MJ....
Workabit

Posted by: workabit at September 1, 2008 8:59 AM

Can you disable the voicemail feature?

Posted by: Marc at September 1, 2008 1:26 PM

From Magic Jack's FAQs

magicJack voicemail is set to 4 rings by deafult and cannot be changed at this time.

To use your own answering machine with your magicJack, you can change the settings on your answering machine to pick up after 3 rings, before the magicJack voicemail picks up. Please refer to the manual for your answering machine, for additional details.

Posted by: FrankT at September 1, 2008 2:11 PM

I installed my magicjack yesterday and so far so good. While installing it I had to click "OK" & "Allow" on a couple of security windows (Vista & Spybot Security) but it was obviuos to me I had to agree or magicjack might not work. Also during the install I had to choose or not choose the free incoming line. Beside the checkbox it said "recommended" so even though I wasn't sure what that question ment or why it was there, I checked it too. I mention these issues about the installation because I didn't see any mention of it anywhere on this page.
I've made about 15 calls on it and all seems to be fine. I noticed a little glitch a couple of times but nothing worse than I experience on my cell phone on a daily basis. In fact, the 2 calls that had glitches were to friends cell phones. They both said I was crystal clear with no glitching.
I like the email/voicemail feature. It's real handy for me as I'm working at the computer a lot.

The MagicJack website is actually very informative once you learn how to navigate through it. All the information about returns and replacements is there. I read all of this before making a decision to purchase mine.

If this one continues to work for a month or so I'm going to purchase another one.

Actually, my real reason for posting this was to comment on how informative this webpage has been in helping me make a decision about MagicJack. Here I found unbiased, good information. I agree with the person who commented that the MagicJack website should support an unbiased forum. It probably would discourage some folks from purchasing the product but at least those that do would know beforehand that there may be some issues with this product on their computer,internet service or handset.

Posted by: Mike at September 9, 2008 7:37 AM

I am currently using Magic Jack and am very happy with it. I want to know if it's possible to use both Magic Jack and Vonage in the same computer. The Magic Jack will be used for outgoing calls while Vonage will take care of incoming calls. Will they work together? Do I need to get another computer and separate internet connection for Vonage?

Posted by: Loree at September 25, 2008 4:06 AM

Loree,
When I first got the Magic Jack, I was a Vonage subscriber. I kept both for about a month, and used both - no problems.
But I don't think that I ever used both at the same time. If this is what you want to do, it should work if you have enough capacity on your internet connection, but your mileage may vary.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at September 25, 2008 10:44 AM

perhaps i've missed it from all the previous blogs, and there are a substantial number, but since i COULD NOT CHOOSE a local #....doesn't that mean that my loved ones who wish to call me (and live here in town) will incur their own long distance charges?....unless, of course, they get their own magicjack??

Posted by: bgan2day at October 10, 2008 2:54 AM

bgan2day,
You got it right. If a call is a chargeable long distance call from the local area code to the area code associated with your magic jack, then there will be a charge on their phone bill.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at October 10, 2008 7:54 AM

I ordered one unit and to my amazement when this company found out I was using a debit card not only did they not give me the same deal but they helped themselves to a second payment.I realize my last name is hispanic and that this is usually a red flag for people to believe they can steat from you. But this time it backfired on them a little. I am a well known figure in the community who comes in contact with five to six hundred people in diferent counties every week and I will see to it that these folks know about Magic hack.

Posted by: Martin Estrada at October 21, 2008 4:51 PM

Can I make call from handset(Land Phone) by using Magic Jack.

Posted by: Aks at October 29, 2008 2:34 PM

From magicjack.com FAQ
You get a regular telephone number, incoming and outgoing calls, and a host of "regular" features. You can use magicJack with your existing telephone as well.

Posted by: Sam at October 29, 2008 2:51 PM

Purchased one of these a few months ago.
Works very well. Only small problem I had was when the PC reboots for MS updates, the MJ doesn't start back up. Easy fix is to unplug and plug the MJ back in once the PC has started back up.

I do find it convenient that all software and drivers remain on the device. Pretty slick.

Gotta use this on a lan connected or wired PC to get excellent call quality, or wireless for ok call quality. Even worked over Verizon Wireless pc card. Nice.

Hacks and help are widely available on quite a few forums, not bad for us young whipper snapers, but the wiser community wont be happy unless they can call and complain to someone.

And "YES", I think people would rather talk to an English speaking IVR system any day, than talk to someone who has a hard time trying to understand me, and me understanding them. Sad, but true.

And last but not least,its about time you folks used those Grand Central servers for something other than Grand Central.

Posted by: Kyle Daulby at October 30, 2008 6:11 AM

Chat InformationPlease wait for a site operator to respond.

Chat InformationYou are now chatting with 'Harry'

Harry: Hello, how may I help you?

Erik: I cannot make calls although I can get them I have had my magic jack for about 5 months with no problems.

Harry: I see.

Harry: May I know if you're using the USB extension cord that we have provided for you?

Erik: yes I am.

Harry: Please unplug your magicJack and plug it directly into your computer after 3 minutes.

Erik: I have tried to plug just the magic jack directly into the usb port on my computer but I will try again!

Harry: Yes please

Erik: Is this a typical problem that can occur with your service? Up to now it has been working great.

Erik: I am going to replug the magic jack directly into the usb port on my computer.

Harry: Yes please

Harry: Still not working/

Erik: one moment please!

Harry: Okay.

Erik: no, it still will not allow me to place calls.

Harry: Can you hear a voice?

Harry: To call you a number?

Erik: I get a dial tone but it doesn't go through. I have tried different phones as well. Do you think the magic jack is malfunctioning?

Harry: No Erik.

Harry: If it instruct you to call a number.

Harry: Please call that number using another telephone.

Harry: Not your magicJack phone.

Erik: what number am I supposed to call from another telephone and why?

Harry: Thank you for your patience. I will transfer you to a higher level of support. Please hold while I transfer you.

Chat InformationPlease wait while I transfer the chat to the best suited site operator.

Chat InformationYou are now chatting with 'Gabrielle'

Erik: thank you.

Gabrielle: Good day

Erik: hello.

Gabrielle: may I have your mJ phone number please

Erik: 206-497-8700

Gabrielle: One moment please...

Gabrielle: thanks for holding

Gabrielle: you received a voice prompt requiring you to call a number, right?

Erik: I have tried calling that number dozens of times (on a different phone.It is a voice mail and doesnt seem to be active.) Sometimes I just get a dial tone.I also get a message stating "the USB device attached to this computer has malfunctioned and windows does not recognize it" which just came up when I plugged in my magic jack this time.

Gabrielle: when you try to call that number from the magicjack, you will get a dialtone

Gabrielle: please call that number, weekdays and office hours 8 - 5

Gabrielle: then you will be informed of the status of your device

Erik: I have tried doing so for the last week or so and have NEVER been able to get ahold of someone. I have contacted "live chat" several times and have never been able to find out what the problem is. The Voice mail is always full and I have never been able to talk to someone. It is virtually impossible to "talk to someone" on that number.

Gabrielle: please don't use your magicjack number when you call them

Erik: I get a message stating to call 214-884-5124 to receive and important update due to unusual call volume on my phone. I have called this number dozens . I cannot place calls from my magic jack so obviously I have been using another telephone.

Gabrielle: I apologize but i can't access what the update is with your device

Erik: The previous people I have talked to simply tell me to keep calling this number from another phone which I have tried for a week which only gives me a vm with a ridiculously long extention. I do not think it is realistic to believe making a phone call to some vm will give me an "update" so I can place calls. I believe there is something wrong with the magic jack I have, which seems to be very apparent since I cannot make calls from it.

Gabrielle: please make a call, from 8 am to 5 am

Gabrielle: I mean

Gabrielle: 5 pm

Gabrielle: I'm sure you'll be able to make a call to that number

Erik: As mentioned I cannot make contact with a live person on "that number". Have you tried calling "that number" yourself? It is strictly a voice mail.

Gabrielle: I'm sure you will be able to call that number, weekdays

Gabrielle: 8 - 5 pm

Gabrielle: I hope there is something else I can help or tell you

Erik: I tried several times today and again right now. As I told you it is a voice mail. I have probably called this number 50 times total with the same result. Do you have any troubleshooting tips or help? I am sure you have recieved these types of "calls previously". How can I resolve this problem other than calling a vm?

Gabrielle: I apologize

Gabrielle: there is no troubleshooting step for this

Erik: Could you simply tell me what the problem is? Or connect me with someone who could help? If there is no troubleshooting step for this as you mentioned then what can I do besides wasting my time calling a voice mail?

Gabrielle: please keep calling Eric

Erik: I find it hard to believe there is no service provided to remedy problems with your product or offer reasons as to why such things occur. Why do I get this message and why can I not place calls?

Gabrielle: and again ,office hours

Gabrielle: because there is update with your mJ device

Gabrielle: that only the personnel on that line could tell you

Erik: I have tried calling as mentioned dozens of times, always during "office hours" which on the voice mail state 8-6. There is no one I can contact who can help then, correct?

Gabrielle: only that number Erik

Erik: As mentioned, there is no "tech support person" I can get ahold of. I think this is obvious if I have called the number dozens of times during business hours. I have talked to someone via live chat and all they/you tell me is to keep calling that number. It is just silly and ridiculous. You cannot offer me any help yet are the only ones I can seemingly get a hold of.

Gabrielle: I am truly sorry

Erik: Is there ANY number,e-mail,etc of someone I can talk to to resolve this problem Other than the voice mail number?

Gabrielle: I can't offer you fixes because i know this won't work

Erik: what "fixes"? I realize that if I have to rely on simply calling a long distance voice mail number numerous times from another phone to get your service to work then there is a problem. Basically you can offer me no help as the vm number can't as well, correct?

Erik: Could I have it replaced?

Gabrielle: you need to call that number first

Gabrielle: I am really sorry Eric

Gabrielle: Erik*

Gabrielle: I am telling you the only thing that you can do

Gabrielle: nothing else

Erik: I give up on calling that number. Have you ever tried calling it yourself? There is no live person to talk to.

Gabrielle: we have a lot of customers who called that number

Gabrielle: and after making the call

Gabrielle: they were able to use the mJ again

Erik: I have a hard time believing such. You also tell me there is nothing you can do, no online help or service. no trouble shooting I can do,etc. I simply have to keep calling some number. That is ridiculous. I appreciate the 5 months of service your company gave e but there is NO customer support or help when problems arise, which is proven by my efforts. Your company needs to provide better (or at least adequate) Support for its customers.

Erik: Even if I was to simply buy another magic jack, get a new number , etc. this same problem may arise again.

Gabrielle: please try to call that number first

Gabrielle: maybe you just didn't have the right time to do tha

Erik: I have tried calling "that number" between 8-6 as mentioned about 50 times between 8-6 m-f. Same result, voice mail. In addition, the box is full and you cannot even leave a voice mail.

Gabrielle: as much as i want to help you

Gabrielle: there 's nothing i can do with that

Gabrielle: I am really sorry

Gabrielle: i know this is frustrating

Gabrielle: but of course

Gabrielle: i dont want to give you false expectations

Gabrielle: i hope you understand

Erik: what "false expectations"?Never mind. There is nothing you can do as you mentioned so I am wasting my time.

Gabrielle: I am really sorry Erik

Erik: I find it hard to believe there is NO number to call that you can provide, that your "live chat" tech support can do nothing and that the only thing I can do is call some bogus voice mail to simply use your service. Obviously your business is fraudulent.

Erik: In addition, your live chat and this # provide NO HELP or SERVICE whatsoever.

Erik: It is ridiculous to think that someone has to make dozens of long distance phone calls (to a voice mail no less) to simply get your service to possibly work correctly. Long distance DOES cost money, hence the reason people purchase your device. Regardless thank you for your "help".

Posted by: erik at October 30, 2008 7:20 PM

Wow Kyle/Erik. That looks pretty frustrating.

Posted by: Steve at November 7, 2008 1:37 AM

my internet usage has gone through the roof?
so now I have to pay extra to use this majic jack....
doesn't seem worth it ?

any one know how much bandwidth is needed for say a 1 minute phone call?

Posted by: terry at November 16, 2008 11:32 AM

Terry,

From magicjack.com's FAQs

magicJack requires approximately 80 kbps of bandwidth.

Posted by: FrankT at November 16, 2008 5:44 PM

Erik

i had same problem with my magicjack and i just simpley downloaded the upgrade on there website magicjack.com when you click live help the upgrade will appear click it and click run it will restart and fix itself. this happend to me cuz i used ccleaner and it deleted some of my programing for the divice.

Posted by: Jerry at November 18, 2008 8:37 AM

Help... my Magicjack don't work. All I get is continuous dial tone. whatever & whenever number I call.
It's been like so for the past month... magicjack only worked fine for 1 month, then it don't work anymore!!!

Posted by: Suzette at November 27, 2008 10:13 PM

Have you tried live chat at magicjack.com?

and did anything change from when it worked, new computer, change in broadband provider, did you switch which USB jack you are using, or anything else?

Posted by: FrankT at November 28, 2008 6:49 AM

I was told I have to turn off window's firewall plus norton 360's firewall. magicJack says this is safe.

I am very concerned.

HELP

THANKS

Posted by: mike at November 30, 2008 8:37 PM

From magicjack.com's FAQs

Does magicJack work behind a firewall?
Yes it does. In some rare cases, you might have to disable your firewall during the registration process (less than 2 minutes) and enable it as soon as the registration is complete.

I did not have to turn off the firewall on either of my computers during installation or when using.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at December 3, 2008 7:07 PM

For all intent the M-J works quite well, each morning I do replug because it seems to drop out.
I take my lap top out of town, as long as hotel has has wire internet MJ works great, wireless type some time will drop calls. I am notified of voice mail on AOL internet but can't seem to get message?

Posted by: norm at December 4, 2008 3:22 AM

please call me 9548651123 i need to know if majic jack works outside usa if i am in amman jordan

Posted by: ibrahim at December 8, 2008 2:54 PM

From magicjack.com FAQs
Using a Magic Jack outside of the US.

How do I make calls to locations outside the USA?

Call any person on their magicJack number in any country and the call is free. Call back to the US from another country with your magicJack and it's free.

To make calls outside the US and Canada with your magicJack, please click here (http://my.magicjack.com/) to purchase International minutes.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at December 8, 2008 4:10 PM

"- you can not make calls to land lines and cell phones anywhere besides the US and Canada, but you can call anyone in the world if they are also using a Magic Jack (Magic Jack has announced that an international calling program is coming soon).
- Magic Jack does not supports its use for faxing. According to Magic Jack's web site, it works 'sometimes'. I did not test the Magic Jacks faxing capabilities."

I disagree with these 2 comments that were posted. I make calls to land lines and cell phones to my friends in other countries all the time! They do not need a magic jack to speak with them
I also use my magic jack for my fax machine all the time and i have never had an issue.


I have had the magic jack since day 1. I have never had an issue with the service at all. Although when the beta came out for the macs, it would sometimes not connect correctly and there would be a flicker noise at first but then would stop and be normal. they have since cleared that issue up.

I normally don't post on these forums but i wanted to clear up what i feel is false info.

Posted by: Jeremy at December 11, 2008 3:24 PM

I would like to get my mother in law a magic jack. She lives in Hungary. Does it work there?

Posted by: George Murphy at December 22, 2008 8:52 AM

You should be able to use a MagicJack in foreign countries to call:
- US and Canada telephone numbers
- and other MagicJack #s

Posted by: FrankT at December 22, 2008 9:26 AM

hi all

regarding magic jack and faxing:

i have a brother mfc-8440 all in one printer and i am hooked up through cox communications.

i have no problems faxing through magic jack with this fax machine.

thanx
jeff

Posted by: Jeff at December 22, 2008 9:43 PM

We are a three laptop family on DSL with a wireless router. Can we install the software for M.J. on all three laptops and plug the M.J. and phone into whichever of the three happens to be on at the time?

Posted by: Wayne at December 24, 2008 6:26 PM

From MagicJack.com FAQ's
MagicJack works with wireless Internet. Please make sure you have a strong wireless signal.

You can move your magicJack from one computer to another. magicJack is NOT tied to the computer it was originally registered on, which is why magicJack is so portable.

All you have to do is plug your magicJack into the new computer and wait for the software to appear and you will be able to make and receive calls within seconds.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at December 24, 2008 6:53 PM

i am very interested please call me 905-598-4210

Posted by: olivier Luhaze at January 2, 2009 10:35 AM

Do you get to pick your phone number for your magic jack or PC? I am concerned about getting a number that is still long distance to my neighbors.

Posted by: Capt.A at January 2, 2009 6:50 PM

From Magic Jacks FAQ section of their web site.

If my friends call me, are they charged for a long distance call?

If your magicJack phone number is in the same area code as your friends and family they are not charged long distance to call your magicJack phone number. If they are in a different area code, they are subject to the rates their phone company would charge for calling the area code your magicJack is registered with.

Can I request a specific area code for my new magicJack line?

Yes. When you first plug in your magicJack, you will be able to select your area code.

Posted by: Bob Gatton at January 2, 2009 7:14 PM

Magic Jack has been working very well recently.

I have my magic jack at home and I enjoy it becuase it's nice. It can be work it easier.

Posted by: Kevin Pete at January 3, 2009 8:45 AM

Another number for Magic Jack. Good luck. You will need it.

281-404-1551

Posted by: Bob at January 6, 2009 3:18 PM

I just got my Magic Jack, and cannot get it activated. I gave me a message saying error 3. I found them on the web, and submitted my problem. The message they sent me told me what to do, which I tried everything I understood, then I came to finding port 5060 and 5070 UDP (what's that) I need to talk to a live person, as I am 75 years old, and not too computer wise. I do have my DSL through my phone company, could they have a block on my connecting the Magic Jack? If I send it back, can I send it to the address that was on the delivery package? Please help me if you can. Lauretta

Posted by: Lauretta at January 8, 2009 11:11 AM

Hi Lauretta,
Magic Jack does not have an customer service number, they do have live chat - type in your question, and then you get a typed response from someone at Magic Jack.
Link
http://www.magicjack.com/1/magicfix.asp
Live chat is not as convenient as a telephone number, but it helps in keeping costs down.


To return, go here
http://my.magicjack.com/returns.html
and scroll down to RMA and fill out at least 2 of the four blanks to get the return process started.
Hope this helps.

Posted by: FrankT at January 8, 2009 11:23 AM

This is the least expensive and probably the best telephone service that I have EVER used!

This service ONLY costs $19.95/year and with a 5 year license extension it costs only $12.00/year! That's $1.67/month the 1st year then $1.00/month each year thereafter.

Don't believe any of the BAD PRESS you may hear about the service. I discovered what the "technical" problem was, because it actually happened to me. I was having audio and connection problems until I solved the technical problem of my computer's USB bus drawing over 500 mA, actually 580 mA, with everything plugged into the bus.

My eMachine computer, Model T2882, only has a 250 Watt power supply and that was working at its limits with all the computer cards and USB devices that I had plugged into the machine were demanding current.

The attached links is how I solved the problem for less than $20.00!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLoYFE7Svv8

http://drbray.blogspot.com/2008/12/magicjack-reality.html

Posted by: drbray at January 8, 2009 2:23 PM

Here is an article by someone who swears his broadband ISPs where purposely trying to interfere with his magicJack VoIP to push their own VoIP:

http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/390/RipOff0390056.htm

Posted by: drbray at January 8, 2009 2:26 PM

The magic jack does work with the fax machine. We did three series of tests. (1) Stand Alone Fax Machine Brother 7820N. (2) Symatec Winfax With US Robotics 56k Voice Modem & (3) Symatec Winfax with New USB US Robotics Modem 5637.

The key to it is to use new hardware if you want to get it to work. Our findings concluded the following.

1. Brother Fax Machine - We connected the fax machine directly to magic jack and faxed a document to J2 Fax number. The fax went through without a problem, the only thing we had to do is hit 2 because J2 is 1 for voice 2 for fax. Magic jack faxed it no problems.

2. Magic Jack w/ older US Robotics Modem : We used Symantecs Winfax to fax a document. It dialed the number no problem, it looked like it sent 100% of the fax but it had a problem that stated there was something wrong with the communication.

3. Magic Jack w/ Newer US Robotics USB Modem. Faxed page to same fax number, same computer but changed it to a USB Based US Robotics Modem. Faxed without any problem.

It all has to do like others side, the newer technology with older ones. Our brother printer was 6 months old and our USB based US Robotics modem was 3 months old. The older US Robotics Voice Modem didnt work for the reason we can conclude that the modem is 8 years old, when 56k dialup was the "high speed internet" of that time. So its safe to conclude old technology doesnt work with new technology in this case.

Posted by: Magic Jack User at January 10, 2009 1:06 AM

I just received a Majicjack yesterday and set it up. I purchased it mainly for faxing. I have a Panasonic KX-FP145 fax machine. It works great for sending faxes. It also works great for receiving faxes if, upon receiving a fax, I pick up the receiver on the fax machine and press the fax receipt button. My problem is receiving faxes automatically without lifting the receiver. It worked once out of five times in receiving faxes automatically. When it fails, it acts like it is about to receive the fax, and then disconnects. My owners manual does not tell me how to slow down the modem speed, but does state that there are multiple modem speeds from which to choose. The owners manual says nothing about error correction.

Does anyone have experience using Majicjack in conjunction with my Pansonic fax machine? Thank you.

Posted by: Jim at January 10, 2009 11:26 AM

I just found out that I have to go to Bagdad for the next 9 months, the fella that I am going to work with loves Skype as he does not have to keep track of the jack, just be logged in where he is at. So if he is 'on the road' and left the jack in his office, he can still log on where he is at and call home.
Anybody have any advice to share for someone living overseas??

Posted by: Bill at January 10, 2009 1:37 PM

I have had my MJ since the first part of September, and I am really having some problems with it.

I would say that 49% of the time when the phone rings, it rings for 30 seconds and no calls come in, another 49% I am having problems making a call. The other 2% I have no problem. My big beef is that I cannot call and talk to anyone live about my problem to correct them. It looks like I will not be renewing my MJ subscription at the end of the year if this is not resolved. If anyone has any help ideas or a customer service number to call to get help that would help me at present.

Posted by: Greg Hinson at January 14, 2009 5:14 AM

I have Vista. I also have a Magic Jack. It's working fine except that when I put the computer in sleep mode and then come back on the computer I have to unplug the Magic Jack and then plug it back in for my phone to get a dial tone. The blue light is on the Magic Jack when the computer comes back on, but I won't get a dial tone on my phone until I unplug the Magic Jack and then plug it in again. I've been told that this is the way it works. Is this true. It seems like it should just start up when the computer comes back on. Thanks.

Posted by: Linda at January 15, 2009 8:23 PM

I recently purchased a Magic Jack apparently without reading the fine print. After purchasing it, I read that it was not compatible with Mac's running Power PC processors.. Will there ever be a patch for this? I just bought a used G4 iMac that runs the PowerPC operating system and it works fine. I plan on keeping it for a long time.

My only other option is to use my old Dell from 2001. It runs XP but the USB ports on the computer are not USB 2.0. Will the Magic Jack work with USB 1.0 ? If not, then what do you recommend me doing short of buying a new computer?

Posted by: Ben at January 16, 2009 11:01 AM

I purchased two magic jacks. Can't plug in two jacks on one computer. One is for my fax line, the other for my phone (two separate computers) We're wireless throughout the household. 911 is automatic according to one's address. Both work fine. I fax and receive not a problem. My computers are XP. It gave me two new numbers. Setup was practically instantaneous. When computer is off calls automatically go to voice mail. Anyway, most people call me by cell. Love it, love the price. We save nearly $700 per year and it now pays for my cable and Internet.

Posted by: The V at January 16, 2009 7:40 PM

I purchased two magic jacks. Can't plug in two jacks on one computer. One is for my fax line, the other for my phone (two separate computers) We're wireless throughout the household. 911 is automatic according to one's address. Both work fine. Fax and receive with very few glitches meaning I may have to re-send on occasion. But overall, no problem. My computers are XP. It gave me two new numbers. Setup was practically instantaneous. When computer is off calls automatically go to voice mail. The clarity is excellent. I receive and call just fine. I don't have to unplug and reconnect when I turn my computer off. However if the computer goes down for some reason, I unplug the modem and router for a few seconds and everything is fine. I don't have a problem turning my computer off as most people call me by cell, and as stated before, there's voice mail. Love it, love the price. I'm sure it will get even better. As a unit, we save a little more than $700.00 per year minus the $40 for the two jacks, and it now pays for my cable and Internet.

Posted by: The V at January 16, 2009 7:46 PM

ALL MY PHONES IN THE HOUSE WORK OFF ONE MAJIC JACK.

Once you have cancelled your local phone service, disconnect the phone cable that runs from the street to your house (box on the outside of your house where the telephone lines connect to your inside line.) With your Majic Jack pluged into your dedicated computer, with a splitter in your wall phone jack, plug the phone cord from MJ to one side of the splitter and your phone in the other side of the splitter. You now have all your phones in your house HOT.
I just fired my phone company and the only difference is I do not get a bill at the end of the month...It is GREAT!!!!!!!

With a very large house, you might want to consider the use a AC powered USB port to boost if need be...but probably not. If so plug USB to computer and MJ into the AC powered USB and phone line from MJ to wall jact splitter.

Good luck!!

Posted by: Tim at January 17, 2009 9:28 AM

I just bought MagicJack and have spent the better part of the day trying to get it to receive incoming calls. I can call out but not receive calls. Any idea what I'm doing wrong. MagicJack reps were no help and I went round and round with them.

Thanks for your time.

Posted by: Joan at January 18, 2009 6:16 PM

Does anyone know if MJ will be offering more exchanges in the future? As several people mentioned friends from next door will be charged long distance because assigned number (exchange) is not local even it's in same area code.

I can wait if more exchanges (hence towns) will be offered in future

Posted by: Joe at January 19, 2009 4:13 PM

I hate Verizon DSL because they keep sending small packages thourgh their DSL to stop my MagicJack from working . It takes me about a half a day to find it then my magicJack works find for about a day and half then it goes back the sameway and I am getting tried of this.
My magicJack will start up ok but in about 15 minutes it will disapper from the task bar , the blue light is on but no phone and when I hit the icon on the computer it says you must plug in the MagicJack into a usb port but it is already plug in and blue light is on. The chat people can't help me they all just have me reset my magicJack and also run the fix which does not help and they have told me that they have refreshed the line to my magicJack.and tell me that should take care of it. Is there anyone out there that can help me with my problem???
Thanks Don

Posted by: Don Kasulaitis at January 25, 2009 6:46 PM

I received the magicjack in September 2008. I had it up and running once. Connected with a phone conversation for 15 minutes and then lost connection. I have spent several hours with the chat representatives. I have yet to talk to a real person or a chat representative that just passes the buck so to speak to the next one. The last chat incident (read below) takes the cake as the tech no longer could figure out why I could not stay connected less than 45 seconds. The softphone disappears and blue light goes out while still connected. The unit would get so hot you could hardly touch it to unplug it.

I love to travel and I do my business over the internet in the summer while camping. I was so hoping to have something like this to utilize with my C-phone for transcribing without a second land line and camp for more than a weekend. I am not the only one having problems.

The incident today with tech with "go to command and do and ipconfig /release" all of us with computer background knows that releases him from the chat as he no longer could deal with the situation. All I wanted was for someone to replace this faulty one with a replacement. I have asked for a replacement with the second level representatives x4 and that statment was ignored. I have yet to find anywhere to contact the owner by phone or by E-mail to get a replacement. The Service@magicjack.com has been discontinued was which was the email that notified me that my unit was on its way. I think it would be a great unit if it just worked. I do realize that electronics are not perfect but at least you would think one would want to take care of the customer and not ignore them. The web site gives you no address no nothing. Makes one wonder doesn't it.

YES I have tried it on 5 other computers with same issue so it is the unit and not the computer that is faulty. I have disabled firewall, antivirus and all the technicians suggestions and nothing is working. All I want is another unit to replace this faulty one is that too much to ask????

Posted by: Marcia at January 26, 2009 10:45 PM

I've been using MagicJack successfully since June 2008 making and receiving calls and faxes with no problems since day one.

I have Charter 6 Meg Internet service and a HP xw4200 Windows XP Pro desktop (purchased used May 2008 for $240 at TigerDirect.com) with a 22 inch wide screen Acer LCD monitor (purchased new May 2008 for $220 at TigerDirect.com). I leave the computer running 24/7 with a screen saver and use Start/Log Off/Switch User to prevent my kids from logging on and accessing the computer.

I've read on other forums that if anyone is having problems with their computer's USB connection or problems with calls staying connected that you should consider purchasing a Powered USB hub (about $15.00 at Wal-Mart). Hope that helps others on this forum.

Posted by: Mike Hoyer at January 28, 2009 5:36 AM

Do not expect any help getting a number in an area code that is not already available. The website has said that the 574 area code will be available in 30 days. It has said that for over three months. The company says that their "engineers" are working the problem. They have no intention of adding this area code, which can really reduce the utility of these devices. The technical chat people have a very narrow boundary as far as how much help they can give you. If you go outside the lane, they just keep reciting whatever line the computer screen tells them to say. This device works but don't expect a great deal of support.

Posted by: Dave Szeles at January 28, 2009 7:43 AM

Does anyone know how it works with wireless service. I need a phone line to plug into my modem which then connects to my wireless router. I tried to plug the magicjack phone line into the modem and then the modem would not work. It worked great being plugged into my phone, but not the modem. So I guess I need to keep a line with AT&T to connect to the modem?

Posted by: Kristine at February 19, 2009 3:34 PM

when i want to make a phone call, it's not clear and most of the time it cuts


pleas answer me back as soon as possiabil or sent me your phone #

Thank you

Posted by: khaled yafai at February 19, 2009 6:52 PM

You can fax using Magicjack. I just found this link, pretty cool I will have to say?

AND it worked! Cant receive though!

Posted by: Dave Fronson at March 1, 2009 12:20 PM

I want to know how to get connected my mj by passing computer. Can I connect my magic jack direct to the high speed internet line and then connect to ny phone line ?

Posted by: kumar at March 1, 2009 10:26 PM

kumar,
No, the magic jack needs to be connected to computer and the computer needs to be turned on to work.

Posted by: FrankT at March 2, 2009 7:38 AM

Terrible quality. Thought it was the phone. Got a new one (DECT 6.0). Same problems. Hissing, skipping. Very aggravating. Any suggestions? I have a Sony VAIO using Vista Home Premium. Thanx.

Posted by: Tony at March 10, 2009 12:16 PM

Good Morning,
I hope someone can help me! I bought the Magic Jack and when I went to put it in the USB Port of my Dell computer I realized that my Internet is plugged into my that port and I only have the One port. I then went on-line and bought a USB 4 Port Hub Adapter but the Internet plug will Not go into it, so now I am back at square One! Can ANYONE tell me what I can do? I would REALLY Appreciate your input! Thank You!!

Posted by: Gramcracker at March 17, 2009 12:33 PM

There is virtually no customer service for this thing! When the questions get too tough, the "live representative" stops talking. I would have returned it long ago if I would have known how to.

The magicJack has more bugs than Africa in the rainy season.

Posted by: Susan Ballarini at March 17, 2009 12:35 PM

Hey everyone!
I am new to blogs.hgtvpro.com.
Hope I can be a regular here!

Posted by: jennejsr at March 17, 2009 3:38 PM

There are many blogs containing incorrect information as well as vehement comments from individuals.

My magicJack® works flawlessly - I love all of the features: "Do Not Disturb", Conference Calling, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Voice Mail, and the portability. What an incredible bargain!

Posted by: JerryInFlorida at March 21, 2009 2:12 PM

i am Using MJ over 1 year now , so far i saved more than 25/month on phone bill , honestly this is good quality servise but certainly not the best. i had lots of Issues like every 5,15 miniutes cuts off ,echo,etc..etc
Customer servise is useless they were trained to keep the customer , allways customers side IP Giving problems not MJ ,Sure they will give you all updates BUT thats not the real error allways

overall i am Happy with my Bill
I am Recommending anybody talking more than 1HR/Day /7/365 or Travellers This Is the Best Voip

Posted by: MJUSER at March 25, 2009 9:19 PM

i just bought your magicjack,everything is set up but i cant receive or make call's,could you please help me.is there a phone no.so i can talk to someone,thankyou.p.s.my home no.is610358-2878 if someone could call that would would be great.

Posted by: jor miller at March 26, 2009 11:54 AM

my phone does not work with MJ, how ever my Softphone (the phone displayed on my computer screen) works fine. What could be the problem? Are there certain kind of phones that are not compatible with MJ?

Posted by: camoore at March 30, 2009 10:29 PM

I recently order Magic Jack, they gave me a Galveston phone number, said they had no local phones for my area of Beaumont Texas. Said they would change it when they got some numbers.
that has been a month ago.
if anyone wants to call me they must call long distance, everytime I want to make a local call, I must call long distance.
I WANT THIS NUMBER CHANGED. would lilke to have an 800 number, where do I call to get this?
oddly enough they offer no phone numbers to call. and impossible to email them or get a live person to speak to.

Posted by: betty ames at April 8, 2009 7:56 AM

Im looking into MJ as my phone carrier. the thing I see over and over in posts is that the personal help for problems is weak at best. When it comes to technical questions, you have problems. I don't know if that's the case or not, but may be a red flag. As a normal person, and fairly "techno", I still run into questions I don't know the answers to, especially when it comes to new techno-toys and need help. So someone tell me, is this MJ worth it? Can I receive reliable support 100%, 24-7-365 ? I really need to know. jwest26@columbus.rr.com

Posted by: Jack at April 8, 2009 9:34 AM

i noticed that QVC doesn't carry this anymore. It was offered as a special value once.

Posted by: mike kane at April 9, 2009 12:47 AM

Does Magic Jack or will Magic Jack a work around for people running Linux?

Posted by: Robert at April 9, 2009 6:53 PM

Does Magic Jack or will Magic Jack a work around for people running Linux?

From magicjack.com's FAQ's

No

Posted by: FrankT at April 9, 2009 7:32 PM

can magic jack work in middle east also if Im calling in the Philippines, how can I order, im from the Philippines

Posted by: roland at April 12, 2009 4:39 AM

I'm new to this blog. Apologize for asking this though, but to OP...

Posted by: AnotsArtict at April 13, 2009 1:53 PM

Hello,
I have a magic jack for several month. It is working perfectly but I can't change the email address for the voice mail. I removed my original email address from my magic jack account and voice mail and left only the new email address. When signing in, I have to use the new email address but the messages are still going to the old email address. How can I fix that as I will cancel the old email address soon.
Thank you in advance.
Lemmerdeur

Posted by: lemmerdeur at April 14, 2009 12:58 AM

I was on the magicJack tech support chat site for seven hours last Saturday (04/12/09) trying to connect with the registration server at magicJack. I'm running Windows Vista Home Premium 64 bit OS. Tech support finally stated that the problem was with the Motorola SB5010 Cable modem. Ports 5060 & 5070 were blocked. Motorola tech support stated that all the ports are unblocked. My cable company also stated that all the ports are unblocked also. Tried it on another computer runnig Windows XP Pro and the same thing. I'm between a rock and a hard place as to what to do next. Any suggestions????

Posted by: John L at April 14, 2009 12:04 PM

can you change the number that was originally regestered

Posted by: paul parker at April 16, 2009 2:48 AM

Can you use prepaid phone cards to make international calls to Mexico without incurring any additional charges?

Posted by: Brenda at April 17, 2009 8:41 PM

i wish to buy it to be able to call the philippines, my question is if i can do it for free? do i need to buy a phone card to go through it? thanks

Posted by: alex at April 20, 2009 6:30 AM

This review and significant others like it, have contained references to the imminet availability of number-porting, where you can transfer your existing telephone number to magic-jack. All of those articles, like this one, quote what appears to be a Magic-Jack source. This review is from January 2008, and some of the other reviews are even in 2007. In each case from reading the articles it makes it appear as if its just months away. Now its near the end of April 2009? Nothing, what is the holdup? I went online to ask the Company but all I got was Companyspeak.

Posted by: David at April 20, 2009 2:55 PM

I need to pay my bill for this year.
Is there a phone number or call site?
Please Help.

Thanks

Posted by: Jean McCoy at April 21, 2009 9:24 AM

You renew by going to their web site.

Posted by: FrankT at April 21, 2009 10:05 AM

My calling waiting/hold doesn't work anymore. Evrytime I go to answer a second incoming call by clicking flash the 1st person is put on hold , with music. But, once I hang up with the second & click back over to flash it hangs up on the first caller.
It didn't do this earlier this evening & I have contacted customer service.
We tried all kinds of things from removing & reinstalling the drivers to formatting the drive for magic jack. resetting the router , etc. nothing has worked so far. can anyone help?

Posted by: Jenna at April 29, 2009 6:25 AM

How to download cal log on magicjack?
FYI: Also, the three way call is only to receive not to make three way calls!!

Posted by: chris at April 30, 2009 9:17 AM

I love the MJ!
but i have a problem.
I need to be able to set the proxy information so that i can use it.
Ive tried chat support 4 times and they cannot help
please assist.
I am working behind a proxy and have to tell my applications what the address is for the proxy so they can get access to the internet.
**
like in internet explorer "lan settings"
where do i make this adjustment in magic jack?

Posted by: bob at May 4, 2009 3:58 PM

Does anyone know when this year magic jack will let you use you current phone # with magic jack?

Posted by: Gary at May 5, 2009 9:18 AM

I just ordered magic jack on Monday on the free trial, they have charged my credit card, ALTHOUGH THEY STATED:
Free Trial Jacks will not be billed to your credit card until the **30 Day Free Trial expires. THEY ARE A BUNCH OF LIARS. I ASKED THEM FOR A PHONE NUMBER SO I CAN CALL TO TALK TO A SUPERVISOR, BUT THEY SAID THEY DON'T HAVE A SUPERVISOR. THEY ONLY DO LIVE CHAT.

Posted by: Bernadette at May 15, 2009 4:16 PM

Why can I not use my PowerPC Mac with the MagicJack? When will this be available?

Posted by: Chrissy at May 15, 2009 6:52 PM

Do you know that you can use magicjack with your laptop to make and receiving call as long as you have a microphone and also I have tried it and it worked, you can send and receive faxes from your laptop while using magicjack as a fax modem.
You can create a folder on your desktop and have all the faxes go to it and later you can print them. I know the company does not support it but I have messed around with it and there are a lot of things you can do with it. If anyone need any information just hit me up.

Posted by: MJ User at May 16, 2009 1:04 PM

magic jack stopped working. It is currently saying to register when registration was already done additionally the id to which it was registered with is being rejected along with password. the # is 3053608511. Can You check it please, We've only had it for a few months.Thank you!!!

Posted by: kelly at May 22, 2009 12:07 AM

Have been talking with tech supprt for 3 days, with no results. Calls seems to go through, rings and everything seems fine, but cannot hear the person on the other end and they cant hear me? Please dont make me try MJ tech again ! Help

Posted by: Dan at May 25, 2009 3:45 PM

Update...I just tried the MJ on my brothers phone. Worked like a charm. Took his phone back to my pc, plugged in and had the same pronlem. No voice or sound. Checked the audio settings in XP, and they are the same. IS some thing in the setting I dont know about?

Posted by: Dan at May 29, 2009 2:53 PM

"Posted by: Brenda at April 17, 2009 8:41 PM

i wish to buy it to be able to call the philippines, my question is if i can do it for free? do i need to buy a phone card to go through it? thanks"

Brenda, I myself use the MJ. It's been more than a year since we started using it. The only requirements to get free long distance calls to and from the Philippines are PC with internet connection and the MJ itself.

I am saving a lot with using it. I used to spend $40 or more a month to call them in Philippines. Now, they can call me on my cellphone here (US) as well. And it's unlimited calling!

Posted by: Art at June 3, 2009 5:13 PM

ples Your magicJack� has already been activated

Posted by: adel at June 10, 2009 6:47 AM

I purchased the Magic Jack a few weeks ago. Downloaded and cannot get it to take to desktop. Tried my laptop, and everything works great. Tried again to do desktop, but won't work, like it doesn't even know it is there. What do I do? There has to be a setting or something that I can fix. There is plenty of memory and it is an XP.

Posted by: Lisa at June 11, 2009 6:21 PM

I use MagicJack for work but I been told that the phone line beeps like crazy. I used to hear the beeing noise on my end but now the caller hears the beeping sounds on their end. I've tried numerous times to contact MagicJack cust service and yes, we have changed settings, unplug the device, etc but it continues. Anybody else had this problems and if so, how did you get it resolved, please? Thank you.

Posted by: Karina at June 17, 2009 10:45 AM

I just have a simple question concerning the use of Magic Jack. It seems that when I call out of state the party on the other end says there is a periodic beeping sound. I hear nothing at my Magic Jack end. Is this normal? Thanks, John

Posted by: \John Sheffield at June 17, 2009 5:16 PM

I got a Tuscon number so my mom could call me using a local number. When I'm talking to her, her phone continuously beeps and numbers appear on my screen in the phone number box. Any suggestions?

Posted by: D Hall at June 19, 2009 10:16 PM

hello i just would like to ask if you know why i can call out from my magicjack and the phone cuts out the whole time but when someone calls into it it so clear the whole time.

i have tried everything they have told me to try on magicjacks end but still no luck. my motherinlaw has one six houses down and the same conection as me. and hers is fine both ways but i have vista she has xp. also i took mine down there and it works fine and i brought hers here and hers is also unclear when you call out.

any suggestions on what to look for on my computer that could improve it.

Posted by: jenoregon at June 22, 2009 12:14 PM

Love my MJ.Only question I have is...When I'am talking on the phone with someone,every 30 sec or so a number digit is added to the phone number in the diplay box and the person on the other end gets a loud beep sound ever time a digit is added.There is no answwer on the MJ web site.Any Ideas on what would cause this? Thanks,John from FL

Posted by: John Fricke at June 23, 2009 11:04 AM

I just got the MJ yesterday...hooked it up and was happy to hear a dialtone..I called my husbands cell to try it out and we couldnt hear anything. So I called my mother...I could hear her but she could not hear me.

I just read on the website that it does not work with Satelite internet, which I have, but if I can hear people then it must work, right? So now how do I get others to hear me?

Posted by: Teresa at June 24, 2009 7:46 PM

I just bought a MJ from Radio Shack. Hooked it up and I have not been able to really do anything because the call is inaudible. it skips every 2 seconds. very happy with the online interface, nice touch for bargan price. very eager to begin using

My set up: cable modem => Belkin Pre-n wireless router => windows xp.

how does the quality of the phone service hold up when you are streaming XM radio and attempting to make calls?

Please tell me how to improve call quality.....

Thanks

Posted by: Berres at June 27, 2009 10:31 AM

I love my Magic Jack! My kids hate it!They ,along with others , say there is a beeping sound on there end that drives them nuts! Has anyone any ideas on why this is happening,and what I can do to stop it? I spent over 3 hours on the phone with the MJ associates , and they had me format the MJ, the only thing that did was I lost my phone numbers , the beeping still continues,we also went in to the fire wall and put the MJ code in there ..they even had me turn of my numbers lock on the computer.....We never came to a conclusion...
I would appreciate any help you can offer..Thank you in advance for you time on this matter.
Kittycolt

Posted by: Kittycolt at June 28, 2009 7:09 PM

So what does a Majic jack number look like?

From what I'm reading I loose my home number, that sort of sucks.

Posted by: Brian at June 28, 2009 8:23 PM

How many Magic Jacks can be plugged into one computer?

Posted by: Jaime at June 29, 2009 5:15 PM

How many USB ports do you have?

Posted by: Marc at June 29, 2009 5:59 PM

hi,my name is barbura and i am looking for majic jacks company phone number if you know what it is then please leave me a email of what the phone number is,thank you =]

Posted by: barb at July 3, 2009 4:15 PM

There are some phone #'s for Magic Jack a earlier in the comments. I didn't try them.

Posted by: FrankT at July 3, 2009 5:52 PM

I CAN'T LOAD ON MY COMPUTER

Posted by: JOHN RODRIGUEZ at July 5, 2009 1:34 PM

Alguien sabe como cambio el codigo de area del magicjack para que me de un nuevo numero, pues me quedo mal configurado desde el comienzo y no me funciona.

Posted by: Alejandro at July 6, 2009 11:25 AM

wow , i was seriously considering MJ but after reading all these issues i think i'll pass and look for something better ....sorry i benefited from from everyone problems by not bothering with MJ

Posted by: Oliver at July 9, 2009 5:32 PM

I have had MJ for 3 months and no matter what I try I can not make it quit "BEEPING" it sounds as if I am pressing buttons to those I call and or those who call me. It is VERY ANOYING. Please DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT it is almost useless.

Posted by: Thomas at July 13, 2009 4:24 PM

My dau lives in one state and I live it the state just across a river from her, about 12 miles difference. I called her one day and we talked for 44 min. I was shocked when I got my phone bill and saw a $4.40 charge to a number over 100 hundred miles away. I investigated it and found out that it was to her, via route of a town 100 miles away. I told her that she would have to call me from now on. It won't accept collect calls either. Sorry, but, I wouldn't have one of them.

Posted by: Pat at July 22, 2009 3:22 AM

Hi All,
Could any one please help me out to resolve this issue, i purchasd my new magicjack this monday and i was able to make a call from my magicjack softphone as well as telephone connected to the magic jack, but from yesterday evening i could not make calls from the telephone, if i make a call the wireless internet connection is disconnected automatically and i need to reconnect the internet...

I am finding a very hard time to explain this issue to the tech support person through chat, because the tech support will ask me to do some steps and ask meto try a test call then my internte connection will be disconnects, so i will lost that chat person...
then i need to explain the full scenario to the next one, he will do the same thing and ask me to do a test call, he will gone..like this i have chatted with around 10 or 12 person but still my issue is not solved...

if some one faces the same problem and get it resolved ..can share their views or ideas with me so that it will be great releif for me....

thanks in advance.

villarasan

Posted by: villarasan at July 25, 2009 11:49 AM

I, too, am having the same "beeping" problem that others are having (I don't hear it, but the people I call hear it.) I haven't seen any replies to acknowledge the problem or offer suggestions to fix it. Is it a problem with a recent upgrade since most of these postings seem to have come from people who purchased their MJs in the last 30 days or so?

Larry

Posted by: Larry at July 26, 2009 2:05 PM

Do not see my area code or city listed. Does that mean Magic Jack is not available in my area? Will vonage or any other system work. I'm tired of supporting ATT.

Posted by: ed at July 27, 2009 7:44 PM

Got my MJ yesterday... plugged it in, updated, at first calls were choppy... I played with the QoS setting and the UDP/TCP port triggering.. I have called my cell phone, my neighbor, my wife just called me at work this morning, I called her... she's left me voice messages at work.. I must be one of the lucky ones as I have not yet (cross-fingers) had any serious issues.. If this works, then I have just save more than 15% on my phone bill.

Posted by: Bill at July 28, 2009 9:37 AM

Yes i have magic jack and for the price i cant complane i guess you get what you pay for but i wouldnt mind except every one who calls me says i cant under stand you what did you say every time you go to speak it skips every thing your saying. but another man said to get a usb hub it makes your phone sound great has any one else heard about this, i could really use some help the on live help has tried about twelve or thirteen times and i dont know if they even know what there doing.

Posted by: Linda Dial at July 28, 2009 6:02 PM

i entered a wrong email address for my MJ's registration But i was using my majicjack for a month and a half without any problems..
now i couldn't open my MJ.
this script appears to me when i hoocked it :

( Verify your Login

Your magicJack� has already been activated.


Please enter your e-mail address and password
to verify your existing account.)

can any one help me with this problem?

could i reset my informations and my phone number..etc without the email i have entered)

Posted by: yara at July 30, 2009 1:23 PM

There's (may be) a real simple way to recieve (at least cause I've not tried sending one yet) using Windows XP "fax printer". Simply put a splitter on the phone line side of MJ; connect one phone line to your phone and the other phone line to yourr "modem jack on you computer" When the call comes in, the 'fax consol' simply asks you if you want to "receive a fax?" Easy as pie!

Also my computer just tried to send a failed outgoing fax from XP fax printer while I was writing this, MJ somehow picked up the outgoing fax call, and my cell phone started ringing (i was testing it using my cell). I'm guessing that by playing around, it will both send and receive faxed by using this 'splitter/loopback to the modem jack on the computer technique'.

Oh, goody! Arn't I great!

Posted by: A. Good Citizen at August 2, 2009 5:59 PM

It seems the magic jack has disabled my pc audio--the mj techchat had me uninstall my current audio file--now what do I do---no audio on my pc!

Posted by: Gail at August 2, 2009 8:03 PM

ok wat is the phone # of magic jack cuz i can't find it. HELP MEEEEEEEEE

Posted by: mahlet at August 3, 2009 5:23 PM

The computer needs to be on, meaning it can't go into hibernate mode. The hibernate mode on the computer needs to be changed. If not, the magic jack will disconnect and you have to unplug and replug it in.

Posted by: barbara at August 4, 2009 9:44 AM

Great post! Keep up the good work!

Posted by: Voguishchic at August 6, 2009 11:27 AM

I would like to see a better online customer service. We have had plenty of issues since the day we plugged this in and no way of solid contact to replace or talk to a live agent and this needs to be changed period! I like this program it is a great deal, but it has a lot of room for improvement. I have had mine two years and I prepaid for 5 years, my computer crashes and It will not reload. my son and I both followed there instructions to reboot and reload the starter nothing works. With out magic jacks cooperation they will not refund me or send a new box so I am screwed in the end any way I guess. By the way Sykpe is a lot of hype. it free only if you call skype to skype. all other calls and sms text messages are .21 cents thats higher then Trac fone cell minutes and they are the hottest thing on this planet!!

Posted by: Robert at August 6, 2009 1:01 PM

Got the following message during install before the very last screen: "
magicJack was unable to contact our registration server.
Please check your internet connection.
If you can browse other web pages, it means our server is temporarily down. Please restart the phone again in a few

minutes if it is not ready to call.
We apologize for any inconvenience."
Despite this message, account looked OK. I was able to see the newly assigned # on the softpad and login into my account with this #. While on the account page, it was dying out a few times with the server error. However, clicking om "my" button on softpad fixed the problem by bringing me back on the account page.
I just made my first outgoing call, and it worked OK.

I think if the "big guys" don't kill or eat up magicJack in the nearest future, it may actually evolve into something very decent in a few years.

As for me, it was worth trying, having some fun with new technology and see if it hold up for at least a year of reliable service - all in all for just $40+tax.

Posted by: DG at August 11, 2009 3:02 PM

I've had the MJ about three months and love it. I have a recurring problem. Outgoing calls work fine. With incoming calls, the phone rings twice, then disconnects. I bought a powered USB in hopes that would fix the problem but it didn't. Anyone have any ideas of what else I can do?

Posted by: Sherri at August 18, 2009 11:00 AM

Hello Dan,

Firstly thanks a lot for your invention. It has revolutionalized VoIP. I am myself a VoIP engineer and have worked in the field of Telecommunications for a few years now.

Also, travel a lot and use your device for personal communications. This has really made a lot of different in my connectivity and mobility.

I cannot thank you enough.

I believe I have used your service for around 20months to 2 years. And I signed a 5 year deal at the end of my first year. However, as good as your invention has been, off late I have seen a sharp dive in the service. I guess with the hype magic jack has created, there has been a flood of customers may be a couple of dozens thanks to me. I am guessing you are in the process of upgrading your systems fair enough, I hope you soon fix your audio quality issues. Past few months I have not be able to use the device because of a broken storage error, rest assured a lot of people have seen this already.

Also, if I may I would like to take this opportunity to ask you about your investment strategy and future road map for magicJack. What do you really do with all that money? An investment advice please :).

I am guessing some may go back into probably buying a great yatch? Some into real estate? And I am guessing you invest some back in the business. I am sure you have invested into upgrading the systems. However, if I may, I would like to suggest investing some in training the support staff.

They are lovely folks and I am sure they have pleasured a lot. However, I have been they whipping boy. :(

Below is the excerpt from todays chat session with one of those. I would also like to invite you to log into your systems and check my earlier logs phone number xxxxxxxxxx.

Hoping to a better world. All I want is WORLD PEACE!!!

Thanks,

ronnie

Your Issue ID for this chat is LTK419073382473X

Desmond: Hello, how may I help you?
ronnie: Hi Desmond
Desmond: Hello ronnie
ronnie: In the mrning I was chatting with another agent
ronnie: and I got DC...
ronnie: I am going to copy paste our conversation
ronnie: and I would like you to look into the account, check my logs and take it from there
ronnie: is taht ok ?
Desmond: Thank you for bringing your concern to us.
Desmond: Please allow me to assist you with that.
Desmond: Your account information?
ronnie: xxxxxxxxxx
ronnie: Steph: Hello, how may I help you? ronnie: hi Steph Steph: Hello ronnie: my magic jack is broken ronnie: i need to exchange it ronnie: i have had a long chat with you guys last month and i never get time to do this ronnie: if you can look up my logs Steph: Are you still on the 30 day trial? ronnie: it would be a great help ronnie: no i have ben your customer for 2 years ronnie: and i have purchased a 5 year plan\ ronnie: but 3 months back the magic jack stopped working ronnie: gives some broken error ronnie: broken storage ronnie: we have done all trouble shooting ronnie: could you please look into my logs Steph: Sure Steph: let me read through your previous chats Steph: One moment please... Steph: Thank you for waiting Steph: I think this issue needs to be resolved by our Upper level tech who will be able to help you more regarding your problem Steph: Would that be okay? Steph: *Would that be okay if I transfer you now? Steph: Are you still there, ronnie? Steph: I have not heard from you in a while. Do you wish to continue this chat session?
Desmond: Thank you.
Desmond: Please wait while I check that for you
ronnie: thanks
Desmond: One moment please...
Desmond: Thank you for patiently waiting.
Desmond: License Expires: 04/21/2014
Desmond: So your magicjack is still IN-Service.
Desmond: Is your magicJack plugged in right now?
ronnie: hey ... we have done all this troble shooting
ronnie: have spent hours on it
ronnie: dont want to do it again
Desmond: Thank you for your patience. I will transfer you to a higher level of support. Please hold while I transfer you.
ronnie: last i spoke i was supposed to get it exchanged
Please wait while I transfer the chat to the best suited site operator.

You are now chatting with 'Evert'

Your Issue ID for this chat is LTK419073382473X

Evert: Hi, this is Evert, from higher level support and I will be assisting you
ronnie: thank Evert
ronnie: Would you mind looking into my logs from a month back
ronnie: or may be 2 months back?
ronnie: i went over all this
ronnie: i never get time
ronnie: thats y i am contacting you guys after a month or more
ronnie: it would be a great help
Evert: May I know the exact nature of your problem with full details please?
Evert: May I know the exact nature of your problem with full details please?
ronnie: for that reason I am asking you to look into the logs
ronnie: I do not really have time to explain this all over again
ronnie: I need to get my magic jack replaced
Evert: is the bluelight on?
ronnie: Evert... plesae understand
ronnie: i do not have time to trouble shoot this
ronnie: i have spent hours on this
Evert: Alright, I understand
Evert: would you like to get a replacement?
ronnie: yes pleace
ronnie: please
ronnie: however not right now
ronnie: I would like to first request
Evert: Oh
Evert: Yes?
ronnie: to get atlest a month to return the old one
ronnie: i keep travelling and i dont get time
ronnie: if you can send it to be my august 25 I can return it to you by sept 25
Evert: I am sorry but you will be only given 10 business days to return the defective jack upon receiving the new device
ronnie: as i said
ronnie: i keep travelling and this is not possible
ronnie: i have been your customer for some time
Evert: I am sorry but that is not possible
ronnie: and i have signed 5 year deal
ronnie: i would guess this is just one thing you could do for me
Evert: No, it is not possible, You will be charged if you will not return the defective jack after 10 business days
ronnie: ok then would you guys refund me the days of service i have missed?
ronnie: or would you guys extend my last date?
ronnie: by 3-4 months
ronnie: ?
Evert: No
Evert: That is not possible as well
ronnie: great
ronnie: what is your inventors email address?
ronnie: i want to write to him....
Evert: No, please read our Terms Of Service to answer all your questions
ronnie: perfect.....
ronnie: perfect.....
Evert: Okay Bye
Chat session has been terminated by the site operator.

Posted by: Ronnie at August 18, 2009 4:06 PM

I too have tried the Majic Jack, but I found I hardly ever could keep a call connected. I have a metal roof, live 8 miles from town, have tried moving my pc different place in the house...nothing worked. So I used it what little I could for the yr, and have not renewed it again. I was so excited when I first heard about the majic jack, but just like most everything else, nothing works for us folks out in the country, not even 8 miles out! It did however have an area code in my area, not that it helps if the system doesn't work.

Posted by: BJ at August 18, 2009 10:16 PM

I had problem setting up my magic jack.When I plug it in my pc, it does not prompt. What could be the problem with this?

Posted by: es at August 22, 2009 11:10 PM

Hi guys i'm from Trinidad & Tobago...in the Caribbean. My landline network connection is essential for internet capability. If i purchase this MJ, can i still retain my local landline number while still being assigned an MJ number?

Secondly, the call quality seems to be linked to internet coverage & speed. I currently have a 256Mb package, will this compromise call quality or is this speed fine??

Posted by: DKG at August 26, 2009 8:50 AM

Just had a major drawback to magic jack. Outside of the fact that they will just drop calls from time to time. IF YOU USE A CONFERENCING CALLING SERVICE magic jack will now block that number from connecting. Instead they will make you try to use there conferencing calling service instead. VERY POOR BUSINESS DECISION. I won't renew over this.

Posted by: Tad at September 2, 2009 10:30 AM

my number is 2104014695 my magicjack is mailid and possword now

Posted by: sangitaben bhakta at September 6, 2009 4:05 AM

Improvement suggestions:

1. Allow multiple phone numbers per MagicJack.
I can have people in various area codes call me from their landline as a local call to them, and they will think I am local to them.

2. Allow an option to not require dialing the area code for outgoing calls to the local area.

Thanks.

Posted by: Nate at October 6, 2009 4:05 AM

Should MagicJack work using a Verizon Broadband Cellular Internet Connection? I use the Verizon MiFi Broadband Cellular device.

Posted by: LARRY WILLIAMS at October 6, 2009 10:09 PM

what is the speed of the Verizon Broadband Cell connection?
From Magic Jack's FAQs
magicJack requires one of the following Internet connections:

* Broadband
* High-Speed Internet
* Cable Internet
* DSL
* WiFi
* Wireless
* WiMax
* FiOS

A minimum bandwidth UPLOAD speed of 128 kb/s is required.

Posted by: FrankT at October 7, 2009 7:22 AM

Will the Magic Jack work with a PS3?

Posted by: Joseph Campbell at October 13, 2009 12:39 PM

i'm strugglin' here a bit...seems my xp program or the gateway computer i have(only a couple years old)doesn't have the right drive....how do i find that?

Posted by: Robin Hart at October 15, 2009 11:29 PM

I love my magicJack. A complaint that I do have is that magicJack is lacing key features. I want to have the ability to turn off my voicemail so my home answering machine can receive calls from magicJack. The other feature that I want is to be able to block incoming calls based on caller id information. Luckily I found a magicJack enhancement feature application called Magic Beans. Magic Beans has the features I listed and above and many more.
For more information goto www.magicjackbeans.com

Posted by: Steven Smith at October 16, 2009 5:40 PM

My MJ worked well up until yesterday. I hadn't used it for a month or so but when I tried it yesterday, it said I needed to hook up to the Internet as well as staed an Error 3 (whatever that meant was never explained). Called MJ customer service and spent approx. 3 hours going from rep to upper rep to rep to upper rep to upper supreme rep w/no solution. They weren't the least concerned that it wouldn't work. I was so frustrated that I asked for a pro-rated refund which they stated wasn't possible as it was past the 30-day warranty. I will go the Skype route @ $29.95 as it is more practical & reliable. From my personal experience and research on the net re: customers comments on their experience w/MagicJack, I would definitely not recommend this product.

Posted by: Dave C. at October 23, 2009 1:39 PM

I having the same trouble that I had the last contact

Posted by: Lorenzo Davis at October 24, 2009 3:41 AM

I'm having the same trouble I had my last contact with your company

Posted by: Lorenzo Davis at October 24, 2009 3:44 AM

I'm having the same trouble I had my last contact with your company

Posted by: Lorenzo Davis at October 24, 2009 3:44 AM

Lorenzo, which company? HGTVpro.com or Magic Jack? They are not the same.

Posted by: FrankT at October 24, 2009 10:25 AM