CES 2008: VoIP

Yesterday, Avnera announced a few new products that use its AvneraAudio technology. Two of my favorites that look particularly attractive are the Acoustic Research Wireless remote system and the Skype Certified FREETALK wireless stereo headset.

Acoustic Research wireless remote system

The Acoustic Research wireless remote system lets you roam around your house with your iPod, while another dongle sits attached to your stereo playing any music you choose. It’s perfect for a fully audio-enabled house where the stereo may be in the living room while the music listener is cookin’ up bacon to the tune of Jack Johnson. With the latest announcement, the chef can control their songs, whip (me) up an awesome breakfast, and not have to worry about leaving the room when Cher comes on. The wireless remote will be available in April for $129.99.

Sitting at your computer to make cheap calls via Skype is so last year. Skype seems to be plowing into the mobile world here at CES. First off, the rumored PSP support for the VoIP software was confirmed. A simple system update for PSP users, which will be available in January, will allow the mobile gamers to make calls over Wi-Fi. In addition, the company announced that Intel’s MIDs running Wi-Max will be able to support Skype video calling. The software is also integrated into the recently announced Sony Mylo 2.

These are all well and good, but us U.S. Skype fans are still holding out for the availability of a carrier supported Skype phone. Well our dreams have pseudo come true here at CES. I had the chance to play around with the 3 Skypephone. Though only available to customers in the UK, Sweden, and other countries on the Euro that utilize the mobile operator 3 network, here at CES there is a Skypephone working on a certain U.S. GSM network (you have a 50/50 shot of guessing which one it is).

We haven’t heard the last of Vonage or the virgin jokes on this blog. The VoIP service introduced today the Vonage V-Portal, a digital voice adapter and single port router with a built-in LCD.

The V-Portal, or VDV21, has a integrated screen which provides customers with installation instruction, real-time feedback, and error messaging, allowing users troubleshoot basic issues. The screen also can be used for Caller ID, timing calls, and to log calls made and received. Users can test their bandwidth, receive network status information, and adjust the brightness of the backlight with the device. In default mode, the LCD displays date and time and lets users know if they have voicemail waiting or if they’ve missed a call.

By plugging the V-Portal into a broadband internet connection, users are given two unique Vonage lines for calling or faxing.

The Vonage V-Portal is available to new customers for $9.99 after a $70 instant rebate. That deal will have you singing that Vonage jingle all night long…