Thanks to the FCC, we learn VoIP service provider Ooma is still trucking and intends to release a wireless accessory for their long-running Telo basestation ($200). Unlike, say Vonage or your cableco’s telephone service, Ooma sells you their network gadget for a one time fee and then provides unlimited US calling using your phone handsets or theirs – and without a computer in the mix (compared to the original magicJack). Additional features, including International calling, can be added for additional cost (of course). And, back when I worked from home, I found Ooma highly reliable and indispensable.
The new Ooma Linx looks to extend both the range of the Ooma Telo while potentially increasing the number and type of devices connected. It’s basically a DECT wall wart, that communicates with one’s existing Telo basestation, and hosts an additional phone, phone base station, or fax machine. Like most FCC filings, there’s no indication of pricing or timing. But I’m happy to see Ooma still in the game.
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We've been using Ooma Telo ever since it was released. I like it, but I wish the hardware was more reliable for incoming calls - about 1/3 of the time, you cannot answer an extension when it rings.
I've had the Ooma Telo for about 2 years and I've never had a problem with it, even when my Comcast connection was having packet loss issues (Ooma sends redundant packets to work around problems like this). I don't think it's quite as good as Xfinity Voice, but the price per performance ratio is a lot higher.
My biggest issue with Ooma is it adds quite a bit of latency to conversations, more so than a cell phone. I've measured it as anywhere between 500 and 800 ms. It's usable but does take some getting used to to prevent talking over someone else when you think they aren't responding.
As for the Linx, I'm not sure I get the point. I guess it's for people who don't already have a DECT or wireless phone system.
I used the original Ooma and my experience was excellent. Most of the time there was no noticeable (to me anyway) latency. I can't remember exactly how I had it wired up and since 2008 I'm sure a lot has changed. Including my memory.
Like Morac, the purpose of the Linx is a little unclear although maybe exactly what the doctor ordered for dialup TiVo and dedicated Fax folks? Could be too much of a corner case...