Ojo Video Phone

I'm not sure why I've never blogged about my Ojo Video Phone seeing that I use it everyday.  But, it's better late than never.  I bought a total of three Ojos last Christmas - One for myself in California, one for family in Iowa, and the last for family in Taiwan.  Even after reading great online reviews about it and seeing it in operation (with a pre-recorded video demonstration) at my local Fry's Electronics I was still a bit doubtful as to the promised video quality when I brought it home.  But to my surprise, the video and audio quality was as promised and I've never once considered returning it.  The only difficulty I had was with the initial set up.  The machine has only a power adapter and an ethernet jack to plug in, which was the easy part.  However, the machine had difficulty connecting with the Ojo servers due to my modem settings, which a Ojo representative resolved in a few minutes.  Once connected to the internet, operation is so simple that even my grandmother could use it!  Simply dial the number for the Ojo you want to call and hit the TALK button and within a few seconds you're live and video conferencing.  The video is smooth with a respectable 30 fps and well-synchronized with the audio.  In terms of cost, the initial price for the unit is $299 or $399 depending on the model.  As well, there's a monthly fee of $10 per Ojo unit, which allows for unlimited use of your Ojo to call any Ojo unit you want, anywhere in the world.  Most importantly, the Ojo only operates via broadband connection only, so if you already pay for high-speed internet then there's no additional fees beyond that.  I've been trying to convince my friends to think about getting an Ojo, but at $300 a pop it's no pocket change.  But, it's well worth the cost in my opinion.  Talking to someone face-to-face is so much more fun.  Let me know if you are considering buying a unit, especially if you have questions about it!  Official site here:  Ojophone.com

Comments

[Jessica]

I have one myself, I think that it is one of the most terrific devises that I have ever owned. I love to be able to see my family as if they are right in front of me, although we are miles apart!

[Steve]

I can't imagine living without mine! The video quality is great and it's so much fun! I just wish more of my friends have one. I'd much rather talk to them on my Ojo than a regular phone. Thanks, Jessica, for posting!

[Mason]

I have one and have given two to very dear friends. It is easy to describe how much more my conversations with my god-niece or sisters mean to me by seeing them while we chat. There is no replacement for a face-to-face conversation.

I should also say, I tried using an industry leading Logitech webcam and the extremely well recommended SightSpeed video service. I had difficulty installing everything. When I couldn't get the sound to work, the video service NEVER returned my request for help. $130 down the toilet. Ojo worked the first time with superior results.

There is no real choice in my mind: Ojo works.

[cornelius]

can you also call a regular home phone or a cell phone with the ojophone

[Garry]

I would be interested in talking with other Ojo owners.

My e-mail is:
wireq@shaw.ca

Garry

[Reg Friesen]

WorldGate is out of business so none of our OJOs work now.

[kim]

Anyone know what we should do now? I just bought my phones and paid for a year's service for all 3 as gifts for the holidays. I specifically asked about their financial situation when I purchased the phones and the agreements. They told me everything was fine and service was ensured. Can I sue the company for the services not rendered?

[T1 high speed internet]

Excellent article about the video phone! As far as T1 internet access it is the future of broadband communications.
http://www.1-satellite-tv-facts.com/T1-Internet-Service.html

[Adam - DSL high speed internet access]

I might consider getting the Ojo Video Phone. I like the way internet technologies are emerging.