Upside
The VOIP321 handset is one of two Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) enabled cordless phone products just released by Philips (the other is the VOIP433). The rationale behind the new line is simple -- most consumers resent being chained to their PC when making calls (as with a traditional VoIP headset), and they also don't want to be forced to use a separate handset for their landline and VoIP calls.
With the VOIP321, Philips has teamed up with Skype to allow users to both make and receive Internet calls to and from their online Skype contacts. It also supports SkypeOut, enabling users to effectively ditch their landline in favour of far cheaper VoIP-to-landline calling rates.
For those that aren't comfortable letting go of their copper line just yet, the device is also capable of hooking into your regular landline ("Public Switched Telephone Network" or PSTN for those familiar with the jargon), and you're able to switch between VoIP and PSTN modes seamlessly (at least judging by our limited testing at the launch event).
Philips has clearly put significant effort into designing the device. The kit comes with two primary components -- the handset (with cradle) and a separate box that connects up to your PC (via USB) and landline. The box communicates wirelessly with the handset, and provided that you're logged into Skype on your desktop PC, your contacts and their online status are streamed to the handset in real-time.
The kit is sold with either one or two handsets (AU$129.95 for one, AU$199.95 for two), allowing households to potentially have a regular landline and a VoIP call taking place simultaneously.
As the attached images can attest, aside from the buttons enabling the VoIP functionality, the handset's design is virtually identical to any other cordless phone so non-techies can continue to place regular landline calls while the more technologically inclined members of your household can take advantage of the VoIP features.
Other handy features include a 50-name address book, ten pre-installed polyphonic ringtones and loudspeaker/hands-free functionality.
Downside
Easily the most apparent downside to the kit is the fact that the VoIP side is only compatible with Skype, so those using a different VoIP provider are out of luck.
Additionally, the screen is smaller than we would've liked and it's not colour, unlike Philips' VOIP433 handset.
Finally, the VOIP321 isn't compatible with Mac versions of Skype, but at Philips' launch event a Skype spokesperson said that this feature may be added in future depending on customer demand.
Outlook
Avid Skype users that aren't quite willing to ditch their landline are sure to appreciate the flexibility that Philips' VOIP321 handset provides.
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LindsayB
20/08/2008, 11:24 AM
rating
10/10
I have had my 321 for about 4 years now and am entirely satisfied. Skypeout has improved considerably in recent times and I now use my 321 almost exclusively for distant and local calls on a quaterly Skypeout subscription. It also functions as a normal phone without any hitches. Display went blank once but came good when I removed batteries and re-inserted them.
Pros: Good looks,
clarity,
portability,
reliablility
Cons: None to speak of
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woodsy
13/07/2008, 09:49 AM
rating
2/10
I use this phone as a landline only because it has never worked with my PC running XP. I called for help, sent the phone back following the helpline advice, and they sent it back to me saying that it is working well. I called help again, but the people there were no help. So what else can I do?
Pros: Fine as a landline phone.
Cons: Useless as a a Skype VOIP phone for me. Maybe it needs USB 2, but the lack of documentation with the phone is unforgiveable.
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nazimdeen786
08/05/2008, 01:37 AM
rating
8/10
I purchased a Philip skype phone since one year back and it was perfectly working well. Now since last 3 months the ringing sound cannot be heard and also the speaker phone too does not function. I have tried all means but it did not work. I only wait for a miscall to activate the call. Can you find a solution to this problem. I have gone thro the Control Panel / Sound device etc., but not able to solve.
Pros: This phone is very helpful because I use the phone in the ground floor of my house and the computer on the first floor because I spend most of the time in the first floor.
Cons: If not for this ringing problems everything is OK
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F18Goose
11/03/2008, 01:59 AM
rating
4/10
I have had this phone for a year and I have used it daily. It has worked great, however, one day the display on the phone went blank. I am unable to see any menus or contacts. I contacted Philips and they said that it was a product defect but I am just past my one year manufactures warranty.
Pros: Does a good job when working.
Cons: Display may quit after some use.
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Don
07/03/2008, 09:02 PM
rating
9/10
Excellent phone and no regrets after purchase. Ditched my tethered VoIP handset and standard phone. Detailed manual(s) are on the install disk.
Pros: Cordless. Allows you to use a land line and Skype if you buy the two handset pack. Multiple ring tones. Phone book accepts 50 names.
Cons: Came bundled with Version 1 software disk. Need to download latest driver from Philips website to use newer version of Skype.
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elledee
05/03/2008, 10:30 PM
rating
8/10
I was looking at having to buy a new router to support wireless voip, then I came across the 321. I have had no probs and great clarity and range. I am after just one week very happy .
Pros: Wireless and good range. Great price.
Cons: Still running under an old Skype version not sure if I can upgrade.
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davekennerley
04/03/2008, 10:59 AM
rating
2/10
Buyer beware. Complete rubbish. Has no connection with Skype - in fact, it locks up my system while it tries to find Skype. Can't see or import contacts. Has no manual, no help desk etc.
Cons: Losks up system. Not compatible with Skype. No support. Pay money and drown. For suckers only. No way to fix.
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Orr
04/02/2008, 02:48 PM
rating
5/10
easy to install
Cons: interference from modem whines in the background when using the phone
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carstenandhelle
31/01/2008, 09:12 PM
rating
3/10
I have the same problem as tony&jean moore. Contacts Unavailable, even if I can see they are online. When I click on VOIP321 in All Programs, message appears "USB phone driver is already running". Please help
Pros: Easy to install
Cons: Skype contacts not available
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Gerard
27/01/2008, 11:45 AM
rating
2/10
the soft ware supplied in the set does not support Vista and you need to spend more money to get the program on the net
Pros: would be better if this was a free issue
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