Tesco have launched their "internet phone" service with a bundle that includes a phone handset and some call-time. The service is VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) provided by Firefly from a company called Freshtel. The software is Verbiage Cubix. However you don't have to use the handset with Tesco's service.
The handset is currently on sale for £14.99 which is pretty good value even without the bundled call-time. Other companies are selling the handset by itself for £30 (reduced from £40!) and different makes for £20. The cheapest handset I had seen so far was £18. However I'm sure the price will drop to £3 before long ;-)
The handset is actually from
Yamamoto
and claims to support the standards H.323, MGCP, SIP.
To use the handset with Skype, simply plug it into your USB port. Windows XP will detect it, install the driver and reboot. Then Skype will use the handset as a microphone and speaker. More convenient than a headset or stand microphone for some people.
The Yamamoto page also describes how to use more advanced features of the handset (presumably the keypad!). You'll need to install their CallMe driver, and ensure the handset is configured in the Audio section of your Windows Control Panel. Then you can set speed-dials, dial regular numbers, and navigate your contact list.
The handset can be used with services other than Skype and Tesco; simply download the drivers from Yamamoto's drivers. For example, GoogleTalk, Net2Phone, SJphone, VoipBuster, X-Ten.
Mark Wilson's blog has some helpful information.
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