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MagicJack
MagicJack
MagicJack
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MagicJack, stylized as magicJack, is a service that allows people in the United States and Canada to make phone calls over the Internet. This type of phone service is called Internet-based telephone service (VoIP).

Key Information

Originally, MagicJack required a computer to work. Users connected a small device to their computer, and with an internet connection, they could make calls. In 2011, MagicJack introduced a new model called MagicJack Plus that does not need a computer, though users still need an Internet connection.

The MagicJack device works with a specific phone service provider, YMAX Corporation, which also offers local phone services. Voicemail is saved on MagicJack's servers and can be accessed directly by phone or received via email with audio files. Users can also download updates for the MagicJack device from third-party software providers.

History

[edit]

Dan Borislow invented MagicJack in 2007 and, along with Donald Burns, invested $25 million to start the company. Borislow applied for patents with the U.S. government for the product.[1][2]

The first MagicJack product, released in 2007, was a USB device that allowed users to make phone calls over the Internet. It included both the necessary software and hardware to connect traditional landline telephones to a high-speed Internet connection.[3]

In September 2011, MagicJack introduced a new model called MagicJack Plus. This version eliminated the need for a computer after the initial setup, connecting directly to a modem or router via an Ethernet port. It also featured a standard phone jack and an AC power adapter for easy connection.[4]

The company promotes its products through TV infomercials and its website, where Dan Borislow is credited with inventing MagicJack and founding YMAX. Borislow holds several pending patents related to VoIP technology.

In July 2010, YMAX, the creator of MagicJack, merged with VocalTec to form MagicJack VocalTec Ltd, which is based in Netanya, Israel, and is listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol CALL.[5]

Reviews

[edit]

In January 2008, PC Magazine reviewed MagicJack[6] and rated it as "Very Good," awarding it their Editors' Choice accolade. However, after receiving numerous complaints about the device's customer support, PC Magazine reassessed MagicJack in February 2009[7] and downgraded its rating to "Good," criticizing the company's technical support as "severely lacking."[8] MagicJack provides support primarily through web-based chat.

Consumer Reports gave MagicJack a positive review in 2010.[9]

In 2016, TheVoIPHub published a detailed review of MagicJack, covering every device the company had released up to that point. That same year, CNET described MagicJack as a "trade-off between price and reliability."[10][11]

By 2019, MagicJack's ratings had declined significantly. Voip Review rated it 1.6 stars, down from 3 stars in 2014.[12] Additionally, as of November 2019, Consumer Affairs rated MagicJack at just 1 star.[13]

Features

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Local number portability

[edit]

In September 2011, MagicJack introduced local number portability, allowing customers to keep their existing phone numbers when switching to their service. To maintain a "ported-in" number, there is an annual fee. Additionally, if customers wish to transfer their number from MagicJack to another service provider, the company charges a fee for this transfer. However, not all area codes in the U.S. are available for this service.[14]

Calling pay services

[edit]

According to MagicJack's end-user license agreement:

3.b Outgoing Calls: "Once you have registered your MagicJack device you have agreed to these Terms of Service. You may now elect to choose the feature allowing you to make free outgoing calls over the Internet. You can make free calls to other MagicJack device users located anywhere in the world, and to subscribers on traditional telephone networks or wireless networks in the United States. You will not have the ability to call any number that would require the addition of any charges to your phone bill, such as 900 or 976 numbers or any other 'fee per call' type service."[15]

Not all calls in North America are free

[edit]

A separate prepaid minutes purchase is required for calls to conference lines, platforms, calling cards, certain non-ILEC area calls, area code 867 (Northern Canada), and most of Alaska.

According to MagicJack's end-user license agreement:

4. What Is Free and What is Not: "We may require prepaid purchase and/or we may charge you for calls to conference lines, platforms, and certain non-ILEC area calls, or any call wherein we incur a cost from another carrier. We may provide for a fee, premium prepaid services, which may be powered by YMAX Communications Corp. (YMAX) and may include some inbound, international, conference, platform, and outbound calls that receive a recording and certain calls to non-ILEC areas, and the rates for those services will be governed by listed price lists or tariffs. International calling purchases expire six months after purchase. MagicJack, YMAX Communications Corp. (YMAX), and/or Vocal Tec may make available to you, for an additional fee, enhanced versions of the MagicJack and/or MagicJack Plus device or MagicJack APP Software (Upgraded Software) that provide new features and functions."[15]

Uninstallation

[edit]

Initially, MagicJack lacked a formal uninstallation method in both its software and documentation, which led to frustration among users.[16] In response to these issues, the company introduced an uninstaller for the Windows version of MagicJack starting in 2010. This uninstaller can now be accessed through the "Add/Remove Programs" option in the Windows Control Panel.

Lawsuits

[edit]

In March 2009, MagicJack sued Boing Boing for defamation over the blog's criticism of MagicJack's terms of service.[17] The blog had claimed that the terms allowed MagicJack to monitor user calls for targeted advertising and required users to forfeit their right to sue in court.[18] The lawsuit was dismissed as a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP), and MagicJack was ordered to pay Boing Boing's legal fees of $50,000.

In April 2012, MagicJack filed a patent infringement lawsuit against netTalk. However, the federal court dismissed the case with prejudice, including all claims and counterclaims.[19]

On September 21, 2012, netTalk sued MagicJack VocalTec, MagicJack Holdings (formerly YMAX Holdings), and Daniel Borislow in the Southern District of Florida, alleging patent infringement. NetTalk sought $200 million in damages. MagicJack requested a reexamination of netTalk's patent, which was granted, and the lawsuit was paused. In December 2013, the Patent Office indicated it would issue a reexamination certificate for netTalk's patent. NetTalk then sought to restart the lawsuit in January 2014, but MagicJack announced the dismissal of the case on February 4, 2014.[20]

On February 27, 2014, netTalk received the reexamination certificate, affirming the validity of its patent claims with minor amendments.[21]

On April 2, 2014, Daniel Borislow and Technochat sued MagicJack VocalTec and YMAX for defamation and fraudulent inducement.[22] The case was settled out of court in December 2014 following Borislow's death.[23]

On August 31, 2017, Finkelstein & Krinsk, LLP filed a class action lawsuit against MagicJack, claiming that MagicJack shareholders were deprived of fair proxy materials and voting rights related to the company's April 19, 2017 and July 31, 2017 proxy solicitations.[24]

On July 12, 2018, Ramon Martinez and Moses Lopez sued MagicJack over allegations of robocalls made using a predictive dialer without human intervention.[25]

On July 25, 2018, Galilee Acquisition filed a lawsuit against MagicJack, alleging that the company provided misleading information about the fair market value of Broadsmart telecommunications.[26] The court dismissed the lawsuit, finding that the claims were derivative and that the plaintiff had not made a proper demand on MagicJack or demonstrated that such a demand would be futile.[27]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

MagicJack

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
magicJack is a Voice over (VoIP) service and hardware device that enables users to make and receive telephone calls over a connection, serving as a cost-effective alternative to traditional . The system provides unlimited local and within the and , including , without monthly phone bills after the initial device purchase. Invented by and launched in late 2007 by YMAX Communications, magicJack quickly gained popularity for its affordability and simplicity. In 2010, YMAX merged with VocalTec Communications, the company credited with inventing VoIP technology, forming magicJack VocalTec Ltd., which officially adopted the magicJack VocalTec name in 2011. The company, headquartered in , with operations in the United States (as of 2025), was acquired by B. Riley Financial in November 2018. The core product is a compact USB adapter that plugs into a computer or, in later models like the magicJack PLUS, connects directly to a router via Ethernet, eliminating the need for a PC during calls. Devices typically include 12 months of service upon purchase, with annual renewals available for around $40–$45 (as of 2025), and support number porting from existing carriers for an additional fee. Key features encompass voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, three-way conferencing, speed dialing, and enhanced 911 (E911) emergency services, all accessible through a standard analog telephone. Additionally, the service offers a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, free international calls between magicJack users worldwide, and optional prepaid credits for calls to other countries. magicJack also extends to business solutions through magicJack for BUSINESS, providing scalable VoIP systems with features like auto-attendants, call queues, and 99.99% uptime guarantees for small and medium-sized enterprises. The technology relies on an analog telephone adapter (ATA) to convert voice signals into digital packets for transmission over the , ensuring compatibility with existing home phones while prioritizing high-speed connections for optimal voice quality.

Overview

Description

magicJack is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) device and service that enables users to make and receive unlimited local and long-distance calls to the United States and Canada using a broadband internet connection, serving as a cost-effective alternative to traditional telephone landlines. The service provides a phone number and emulates a standard phone line, allowing compatibility with existing corded or cordless telephones without the need for additional phone jacks or wiring. Originally launched in 2007, the initial magicJack hardware was a compact USB device that plugged directly into a computer's USB port to facilitate calls through installed software, requiring the computer to be powered on during use. Over time, the product evolved to include standalone options, such as the magicJack Plus introduced in 2011, which connects via Ethernet to a router for independent operation without a computer, powered by a separate USB adapter. This progression has made the service more versatile for home and portable use. Targeted primarily at individuals and small businesses looking for affordable telephony solutions, magicJack appeals to those seeking to reduce or eliminate monthly phone bills while maintaining reliable calling capabilities. The pricing model typically involves a one-time purchase of the device for $49.99, which includes the first year's service, followed by annual renewals of approximately $43 for basic unlimited domestic calling plans as of 2025.

Company Information

magicJack was founded in 2007 by inventors and Donald Burns through the initial entity YMAX Communications, which focused on developing voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) hardware and services. In 2010, YMAX Communications merged with VocalTec Communications Ltd. to create magicJack VocalTec Ltd., an Israeli-domiciled company headquartered in , , while maintaining significant U.S. operations in . The company traded publicly on the exchange under the CALL from 2011 until its delisting in November 2018, following acquisition by B. Riley Financial, Inc.; it now operates as a private entity under magicJack LP, a of B. Riley. Gerald T. Vento served as president and from his appointment on January 1, 2013, until March 2017, when he was succeeded by Don C. Bell III; Vento had brought over three decades of experience in the sector. magicJack's centers on hardware device and recurring subscriptions for VoIP services, including annual or multi-year plans that provide unlimited domestic calling. magicJack operates as a private company within the VoIP sector, which was valued at $29.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $63.73 billion by 2032; the company has demonstrated stable but modest financial performance aligned with broader market expansion.

History

Founding and Launch

The concept for magicJack originated from Dan Borislow's background in , where he had built a fortune in the 1990s through Tel-Save Holdings Inc., a provider of low-cost long-distance phone services. Drawing on this experience, Borislow envisioned a device that would leverage Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to drastically reduce calling costs for consumers. YMAX Communications Corporation was incorporated in 2005 in . In 2007, Borislow and co-founder Donald Burns invested $25 million to develop and commercialize the magicJack USB device. The company positioned itself as an innovator in affordable VoIP solutions, aiming to disrupt traditional by integrating phone service directly into a simple hardware adapter. The magicJack product launched in late 2007, marketed as a groundbreaking low-cost VoIP option priced at $39.95, which included the device and one year of unlimited domestic calling to U.S. and Canadian numbers. Early promotion relied heavily on television infomercials and direct online sales, highlighting the appeal of "free" calls after the upfront fee, with renewal service at $19.95 annually. By early 2009, the device expanded to retail channels, including stores like Best Buy, broadening its accessibility. Initial adoption was rapid, but the launch encountered hurdles, including software glitches that necessitated keeping the connected computer powered on and in active use for incoming calls, as well as widespread complaints about inadequate responsiveness in and 2009. These issues prompted reviewers, such as , to downgrade their assessments and highlight reliability concerns during the product's early years.

Mergers and Expansions

In July 2010, YMAX Corporation, the developer of the magicJack device, merged with VocalTec Communications Ltd. in a deal that formed magicJack VocalTec Ltd., with the transaction accounted for as an acquisition of VocalTec's net assets by YMAX. The combined entity was valued at an enterprise value of $245 million, reflecting a per-share value of at least $17.50 following a 1-for-10 reverse stock split. This merger, headquartered in , , shifted the company's strategic focus toward international operations while leveraging VocalTec's VoIP expertise to enhance magicJack's global potential. Product line growth accelerated in the following years, with the introduction of the magicJack PLUS in September 2011, a standalone USB device featuring an integrated system-on-a-chip (SoC) processor and an Ethernet for direct router connection. This upgrade eliminated the ongoing need for a after initial setup, broadening accessibility to users without constant PC reliance and supporting calls via high-speed without additional hardware dependencies. The device maintained core VoIP functionality while improving portability and ease of use for and mobile environments. In June 2016, magicJack VocalTec launched magicJack for BUSINESS, a VoIP service tailored for small and medium-sized businesses, offering features such as extension dialing, call queuing, auto-attendant, and three-way calling to streamline office communications. This product line targeted small offices with customizable plans, 99.99% uptime, and integration for up to 50 extensions, positioning it as a cost-effective alternative to traditional PBX systems without requiring on-premises equipment. Market expansions remained primarily domestic with limited international reach, including free calling to and U.S. territories like the as part of standard U.S. and plans, but without full-scale deployment in foreign markets beyond low-cost international outbound rates. Distribution grew through retail partnerships, notably with , where magicJack devices and services were made available starting in the early to capitalize on mass-market accessibility. On the financial front, magicJack VocalTec listed on the under the ticker CALL in 2011 following the merger's completion, achieving a peak of approximately $505 million in 2012 amid strong growth from device and service subscriptions. The company had sold over 6.5 million units by mid-2010. The traded publicly until 2018, when the company was taken private in a management-led , reducing its market cap to around $140 million at delisting. This period marked significant valuation volatility, driven by device and service subscriptions.

Recent Developments

In 2018, magicJack VocalTec Ltd. was acquired by B. Riley Financial, leading to its delisting from the Global Select Market and a transition to private ownership under B. Riley Principal Investments, LLC. This shift allowed the company to operate without public market pressures, focusing on core VoIP services amid evolving landscapes. Between 2022 and 2024, magicJack enhanced its magicApp, a mobile application for VoIP calling and texting, to improve integration with smartphones and support standalone subscriptions for users without hardware devices. The app enables unlimited U.S. and calls, international texting options, and number portability, expanding accessibility for remote and mobile users. As of 2025, promotional offerings include a 3-year service plan priced at $109, emphasizing long-term affordability for residential and small business customers. In September 2024, magicJack experienced a widespread service outage affecting call reception and connectivity for several hours, attributed to network infrastructure issues. magicJack faces intensifying competition from providers like Ooma and , which offer more robust enterprise features such as advanced analytics and video integration, though magicJack maintains appeal through its low entry costs. Reviews in , including those from Business.org and Tech.co, commend its affordability for basic VoIP needs but critique inconsistent call quality during high-demand periods and limited options.

Products and Services

Hardware Devices

The original magicJack device, launched in 2007, is a compact USB stick designed to plug directly into a personal computer's USB port, requiring an active internet connection via the PC to enable VoIP functionality. It includes a single RJ11 phone jack for connecting a standard telephone handset and supports one phone line for making and receiving calls. In 2011, the company released the magicJack Plus, an upgraded model featuring RJ11 ports for direct attachment to a telephone or router, along with an Ethernet port for connectivity, thereby removing the dependency on a computer. This model maintains compatibility with both Windows and macOS systems while providing enhanced standalone operation. The magicJack GO, introduced in 2015, offers greater portability as a small VoIP adapter powered via micro USB or , suitable for home, business, or travel use with support for Ethernet or connections. The device measures approximately 1.8 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches, enabling VoIP calling without a PC and including ports for phone and network integration. As of November 2025, the primary hardware in the lineup is the magicJack HOME, a USB-based VoIP device priced at $49.99 and including initial service, with recent iterations featuring USB-C compatibility for modern ports. No significant new hardware models have emerged since approximately 2020, though annual software updates ensure ongoing compatibility and performance. These devices integrate seamlessly with magicJack's VoIP service for unlimited domestic calling. Accessories typically bundled with magicJack devices include power adapters, Ethernet cables, and phone cords to facilitate setup with standard analog or telephones. The devices carry a one-year against manufacturing defects, and with continued software updates, they remain operational for several years beyond the initial period.

Service Offerings

magicJack provides a range of subscription-based VoIP services designed for both personal and use, with plans emphasizing low-cost unlimited domestic calling and optional international add-ons. The core offering is the annual service plan, which delivers unlimited local and long-distance calls within the and , along with essential features such as , , , and . This basic tier is priced at $43 per year for renewals, allowing users to maintain service without monthly billing. For enhanced capabilities, magicJack supports through prepaid credit purchases, enabling calls to over 60 countries on a pay-per-minute basis without a separate premium subscription. Rates are competitive, starting at approximately 3¢ per minute for landlines in major European destinations like the , , and , while mobile rates range from 6¢ to 20¢ depending on the carrier. These credits can be added to any plan, and the service includes built-in call blocking to help mitigate spam calls, providing an upgraded layer of protection beyond basic screening. Business-oriented plans cater to small teams with a flat-rate structure starting at $15.99 per user per month, billed annually for cost savings. This tier supports multi-user setups with extension dialing—scalable for small and medium-sized enterprises—unlimited U.S. and calling, and advanced features like , conference bridging, and integration. Optional add-ons, such as auto-attendant for $10 per month or virtual for $5 per month, allow customization for professional needs. Service continuity relies on an auto-renewal model, where subscriptions automatically extend upon expiration to prevent service interruption, accompanied by reactivation of the hardware device if needed. A 30-day applies to new purchases, ensuring user satisfaction during the initial setup period. Additional one-time fees include $19.95 for an existing phone number to magicJack, facilitating seamless transitions. For international calls not covered by domestic plans, users purchase prepaid credits in advance, with billing in whole minutes to avoid fractional charges.

Features

Calling Functionality

magicJack offers unlimited free calling within the , , , and the , as well as free calls to and from other magicJack users anywhere in the world. Additionally, 411 directory assistance calls are included at no extra cost. For international calling outside these regions, magicJack uses a prepaid credit system with per-minute rates billed in whole minutes, covering over 50 countries at low rates. For example, calls to landlines in cost from 2.8 cents per minute, while mobile rates to Mexico are higher, around 22 cents per minute. Certain North American destinations, such as , the , and the , are excluded from unlimited free calling and require prepaid minutes. Calls to premium services like 900 or 976 numbers are not supported, as they would incur additional fees. The service employs standard VoIP audio codecs, including for toll-quality voice transmission. Emergency 911 calling is supported on magicJack devices with a registered service address to aid location identification, though it is subject to the limitations of the local 911 system and is not available via the magicApp mobile service.

Number Management

magicJack provides (LNP), allowing users to transfer their existing or numbers from and Canadian carriers to the service. The process is generally available for eligible numbers and requires submission of account details from the current provider, with the transfer typically completing within 1 to 15 business days. A one-time, non-refundable of $19.95 applies to port the number, and Canadian numbers incur an additional $10 fee on top of the standard service renewal. Users can select a new phone number from a wide range of available area codes across the and during device activation or account setup. The official list includes hundreds of area codes, filtered by state or province, enabling selection based on location or preference. Vanity numbers, which spell out words or patterns (e.g., 1-800-FLOWERS), are offered as premium options for an extra $10 per year, while custom numbers cost $3 annually. For multiple lines, standard consumer plans assign one number per magicJack device, but users can support additional lines by purchasing multiple devices or using the magicApp companion application on smartphones for simultaneous ringing and . Premium plans through magicJack for allow up to four extensions per main number for internal , such as directing calls to specific departments via auto-attendant features. Phone numbers expire if the associated service subscription lapses without renewal, leading to deactivation and potential recycling into the available pool. Users receive and voice notifications prior to expiration, and reactivation is possible through the my.magicJack.com account portal by adding service months or years, provided the number has not been reassigned. Privacy features include outbound caller ID blocking, activated by dialing *67 before a call, which prevents the user's number from displaying on the recipient's device. Incoming privacy options encompass call blocking for specific numbers and automated call screening, which challenges non-magicJack callers (including anonymous ones) to verify legitimacy by pressing a digit, rejecting suspicious or automated attempts. Anonymous call rejection is handled via this screening to filter undisclosed callers.

Additional Capabilities

magicJack provides several supplementary features that enhance its core calling functionality, including and advanced call management options. is included with all service plans, allowing users to record and retrieve messages by dialing their own magicJack number from a connected phone or accessing it through the desktop application. Users can also manage settings, such as recording custom greetings, via the my.magicJack.com portal. The service supports various call management tools, such as , which alerts users to incoming calls during an active conversation and allows switching between them by pressing the phone's flash button. enables redirecting incoming calls to another number, while call blocking permits users to restrict specific callers from reaching their line, configurable through the account dashboard. Three-way calling is available, permitting users to connect a third party to an ongoing conversation for discussions. In 2015, magicJack launched the magicApp, a free mobile application for and Android devices that integrates seamlessly with the service. The app enables unlimited calling to U.S. and Canadian numbers over or data (without using cellular minutes) and supports unlimited texting to U.S. and Canadian mobile numbers for subscribers, along with providing a free U.S. phone number with subscription. It also allows management of account features like and directly from the mobile interface, ensuring users can handle communications on the go. Although some users connect fax machines to magicJack devices, the service does not officially support faxing due to VoIP transmission limitations that can cause errors or incomplete deliveries. For , magicJack partners with Norton to offer 360 protection, which safeguards connected devices and internet connections against threats, available as an add-on for enhanced account safety.

Technical Aspects

Setup and Compatibility

The initial setup for a magicJack device typically involves connecting the hardware to a computer via USB , which prompts an automatic of the required software. Users then register an account, select a phone number or an existing one, and activate the service, a process that generally takes 5 to 10 minutes. For models like magicJack GO, an alternative router-based setup is available by plugging the device directly into the router's Ethernet and following on-screen prompts at mjreg.com, bypassing the computer entirely. System requirements for magicJack include a computer running , 8.1, 10, or 11, or macOS; the original silver magicJack model does not support or later. A internet connection is essential, with a minimum of 5 Mbps download speed and 3 Mbps upload speed recommended to ensure reliable performance, as dial-up or connections lack sufficient bandwidth. Hardware needs are minimal, requiring only an available USB 2.0 or Ethernet connection for router setups, along with an analog telephone for basic use. magicJack is compatible with most analog or digital corded and telephones, allowing users to connect standard phones directly to the device's PHONE . Computer headsets can also be used when the device is plugged into a PC USB . It offers partial support for IP phones, particularly through magicJack for models like Yealink T-series, but consumer versions are optimized for and may require additional configuration for full IP functionality. There is no native support for operating systems. For mobile use, the magicApp enables by downloading the free application from the iTunes App Store or Google Play Store, followed by with existing magicJack credentials to access the assigned number. Users can their existing phone number to the app for seamless integration across devices, with occurring immediately upon successful . Basic troubleshooting includes firmware updates, which are performed by downloading the official updater from the magicJack support site, plugging the device into a compatible computer, and running the file without interruption. an existing number involves submitting a transfer request through the account portal, with verification and completion by carriers typically taking 7 to 15 business days for U.S. numbers.

Known Limitations

magicJack's early software versions, released before 2010, presented significant uninstallation challenges, often necessitating manual deletion of registry keys, files, and drivers to achieve complete removal, as standard uninstall methods left remnants. In response to user complaints, magicJack introduced an official Windows uninstaller in 2010 to simplify the process. Even with this improvement, some users continue to encounter lingering background processes that persist after uninstallation, potentially affecting system performance. Service reliability has been a noted limitation, with periodic outages disrupting call functionality; for instance, users reported widespread interruptions on September 27, 2024, preventing incoming calls. Additionally, on low-bandwidth connections, magicJack calls may suffer from , latency, or dropouts due to the inherent demands of VoIP technology. While magicJack advertises unlimited free calling within the , , and , this does not extend to all North American destinations; calls to and the 867 area code (covering and parts of the in ) incur per-minute charges. is included in the unlimited plan without additional fees, though international add-ons may be required for expanded calling beyond standard North American coverage. The (E911) service requires users to register a valid service address during activation, without which emergency calls cannot be routed properly. For nomadic users who frequently change locations, E911 accuracy is limited, as responders rely on the pre-registered address rather than real-time positioning, potentially delaying emergency assistance in line with broader VoIP regulatory constraints. Security vulnerabilities have been reported in magicJack's ecosystem, including risks of unauthorized access when using public networks, where a VPN is recommended to encrypt traffic and protect against interception.

Reception

Professional Reviews

Early professional reviews of magicJack, from 2008 to 2010, highlighted its affordability and simplicity as a VoIP device. In January 2008, awarded it a "Very Good" rating and Editors' Choice accolade, praising its low $40 price including the device and one year of unlimited U.S. calling, ease of setup, and included features like and . Similarly, a 2009 review maintained a 4.5-out-of-5 score, emphasizing the device's installation and capabilities. echoed this in 2010, calling it "a great deal" for its clear voice quality during dozens of test calls and straightforward USB plug-in process, though noting minor limitations like dependency on a computer's uptime. By the mid-2010s, reviews began to reflect growing concerns over reliability and support. downgraded magicJack to a "Good" equivalent 3.0-out-of-5 rating in late 2009 and further to 2.0-out-of-5 in 2011, citing significant shortcomings and inconsistent performance despite functional basic calling. In 2019, VoIP Review aggregated user experiences into a 2.4-out-of-5 rating, pointing to frequent connectivity issues and poor resolution of technical problems as key detractors from its budget appeal. Recent evaluations from 2024 and 2025 have positioned magicJack as a viable low-cost option for basic needs, particularly in contexts, though with persistent critiques on call quality. rated magicJack for 3.7-out-of-5 in May 2024, commending its affordability at $15.99 per line monthly for unlimited U.S./ calling but noting limited advanced features for larger teams. Business.org assigned a 3.5-out-of-5 score in its 2025 review, highlighting the device's simple USB setup for small es but flagging occasional audio quality drops and lack of robust integrations. Independent tests in 2025, such as those comparing setup and real-world calls, consistently emphasized substantial cost savings over traditional landlines, with one analysis confirming reliable basic functionality for under $50 annually. In comparisons, magicJack is frequently ranked below Ooma for overall reliability and support but above free apps like for emulating traditional landline experiences, including hardware-based calling without a computer. For instance, 2024 analyses note Ooma's superior voice clarity and 24/7 assistance, while magicJack edges out in providing a physical phone jack for legacy devices, though it lags in mobile integration. magicJack has not received major industry awards. User ratings have trended downward over time, mirroring expert concerns on support.

User Feedback

Users have frequently praised magicJack for its ease of use, particularly in setup, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars across 839 reviews on , where many highlight the straightforward plug-and-play installation process that allows quick integration with existing home phones. The service also delivers significant cost savings, often amounting to hundreds of dollars annually compared to traditional landlines; for instance, users report replacing $45 monthly bills with magicJack's $40–$50 yearly fee, eliminating ongoing telecom expenses while maintaining basic calling functionality. Common complaints center on poor customer support and billing practices, with users on rating the service 1.5 out of 5 stars based on 65 reviews, frequently citing unresponsive assistance and difficulties resolving issues. Billing disputes are prevalent, including unauthorized charges and auto-renewal traps that trick users into continued subscriptions via misleading pop-ups, as noted in reviews on WhichVoIP where customers describe unexpected deductions even after service expiration. Forum discussions on in 2025 reflect mixed experiences, with threads praising magicJack's simplicity and low cost for seniors seeking a reliable alternative, though users warn of occasional outages tied to internet or power disruptions that can interrupt service. Aggregated user sentiment on VoIPReview, drawn from 307 reviews averaging 2.4 out of 5 stars, underscores these points, with positive notes on affordability but criticisms of unreliable support and intermittent call quality. Long-term users often report device durability issues emerging after 3–5 years, such as hardware failures like USB connection breakdowns, leading to disputes and the need for replacements despite initial low costs. Migration to alternatives can be challenging due to number delays and adaptation to more feature-rich VoIP systems, as shared in extended-use accounts spanning over a decade. magicJack remains popular among low-income households and small businesses for its budget-friendly pricing and fulfillment, with Best Buy's 839 reviews emphasizing its value as an accessible option for essential calling without premium features. Small enterprises appreciate the scalable lines starting at $15.99 monthly, positioning it as a viable entry-level solution for cost-conscious operations.

Major Lawsuits

In March 2009, magicJack filed a lawsuit against the , alleging that a review post contained false statements about the product's and functionality. The suit was initiated in state court and sought damages for unfair competition as well. In February 2010, a dismissed the case as a (SLAPP), ruling it an attempt to suppress criticism, and ordered magicJack to pay Boing Boing approximately $50,000 in attorney's fees. Boing Boing, operated by Happy Mutants LLC, had described the lawsuit as meritless and an effort to intimidate bloggers. In April 2012, magicJack sued competitor netTalk.com, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of , claiming related to VoIP technology. netTalk countersued later that year, alleging that magicJack's magicJack Plus device infringed on its U.S. No. 8,244,799 for telephone adapters, and sought $200 million in damages. The disputes involved claims construction on multiple patent elements, including network interface and signaling features. In January 2013, the parties filed a joint stipulation for dismissal with prejudice, resolving all claims, counterclaims, and causes of action without any payment by magicJack; the court dismissed the entire case effective November 2012. On August 11, 2017, shareholder Robert Freedman filed a putative in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of against magicJack VocalTec Ltd., YMax , and several executives, alleging violations of Sections 14(a) and 20(a) of the through misleading proxy statements that undervalued an acquisition and improperly approved . The complaint claimed the disclosures denied shareholders fair corporate suffrage. After multiple amendments, the district court dismissed the second amended complaint in November 2018, ruling the claims rather than , as they sought benefiting the corporation and lacked special injury to the plaintiff. The Eleventh Circuit affirmed the dismissal in June 2020, holding that (magicJack's jurisdiction) determines the direct/derivative distinction, and no demand futility was adequately pled. In July 2018, consumers Ramon Martinez and Moses Lopez filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida against magicJack LP and related entities, alleging violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) through unsolicited robocalls using an automatic telephone dialing system to cell phones without prior consent. The suit claimed the calls promoted magicJack services and caused harm under 47 U.S.C. § 227. The case sought statutory damages of up to $1,500 per violation and injunctive relief to stop the practices. The case was closed later in 2018.

Regulatory Actions

In 2009, the Attorney General's office investigated magicJack LP for deceptive advertising practices, including claims that the company imposed unauthorized charges on customers during the 30-day free trial period and failed to adequately staff to handle complaints. The investigation stemmed from hundreds of consumer complaints about unexpected billing for the service after the trial ended without clear consent. MagicJack settled the matter without admitting wrongdoing, agreeing to post prominent disclaimers on its website regarding trial terms and service limitations, resolve the outstanding complaints, and reimburse the state for investigation costs. These complaints highlighted limitations in magicJack's ability to transmit precise caller locations to public safety answering points, particularly for nomadic devices. In response to broader industry concerns, the FCC mandated improvements in location accuracy technologies for VoIP services, including requirements for providers like magicJack to register physical addresses and enhance for calls, though no specific fines were imposed on the company during this period. In 2020, the FCC's Enforcement Bureau concluded an investigation into magicJack's compliance with federal contribution requirements, finding that the company had underreported interstate and failed to pay into the Universal Service Fund, Telecommunications Relay Service Fund, and administration, totaling millions in owed contributions. MagicJack agreed to a $5 million settlement payment to the U.S. Treasury, implemented a three-year compliance with internal audits and reporting, and committed to retroactive fund payments exceeding $11 million, resolving allegations of misleading disclosures in advertising and operations. This action underscored regulatory scrutiny over VoIP providers' financial obligations and in service representations. As of 2025, magicJack maintains ongoing compliance with FCC mandates for interconnected VoIP providers, including annual filings on service operations and participation in the framework to authenticate caller IDs and mitigate . The company has implemented protocols across its network to digitally sign calls, reducing spoofing risks, and submits required certifications to the FCC's Robocall Mitigation Database to avoid service restrictions. These measures address persistent regulatory emphasis on call authentication and emergency services reliability.

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