Just FYI, at the end of this year all OBiTalk consumer telephone adapters will reach their End of Life meaning that if you have not associated a Google Voice number before the End of Life Date (December 18th) then basically you have a nice OBiTalk paperweight.
@@nolongerusedanymore If you have the OBi adapter in hand and can get it to sucessfully associate your OBi account with your Google account before December 18, 2023 then you should be able to make and receive phone calls on a hardline telephone connected to your OBi200 adapter. HOWEVER, an important CAVAET if you purchased your OBi telephone adapter on or after December 18, 2021 (2 years ago) then very likely you have a reconditioned/pre-owned/used OBi telephone adapter and if that is the case and the previous owner of the device did not disassociate the adapter's serial number and nine digit OBi to OBi telephone number from their account then there is a possibility that your attempts to do a setup will be rejected and your out of luck, so be VERY VERY careful when buying an OBi telephony device on services like Amazon or eBay because you may be getting ripped off by being sold an OBi device that is BRICKED. Another CAVAET you should be aware of, if OBi decides to shutdown their servers or Google Voice makes an update to their backend network that breaks the OBi-Google Voice association then unfortunately your out of luck and can't do anything further.
I’ve had mine since making this video and thankfully it still works! Thanks to Rick for providing this last minute information on end of life. I’ll just let mine go until it just stops working one day. At least I’ll still be able to maintain my Google Voice Account.
Thank you so much! Now I can work my 2nd job from home. I'm a single mom and I really needed this information. I didn't want to leave my child home alone while making ends meet. But thanks to you I CAN! I pray God blesses you for sharing this information!!! 🙏🏿😊
Just discovered this channel and I love it. I’m definitely going to set this up in my parents house who still have a landline instead of them paying $40 a month for it. Thanks!
Thank you for watching and leaving a kind comment!! That’s what I told my friends at work too. They were paying for a bundle with their internet providers and I’m like, “You should get this free service and cancel with them. Save you TONS of money.” She did and also had her mom switch. Great alternative!!
You can plug one end of the phone cable into a the phone jack (the one on your wall) and the other in the obihai box and now you can place more phones around the house.
My thought was to connect the box to the phone import jack usually located on the outside of your house (some houses have them) where it would make the rest of your jacks “active” through the OBI device. Definitely worth investigating. I have wireless handsets so not necessary for me.
@@apakabar9022 what type of phone are you using, either it could be a broken phone where it could not dial out, or if it’s a rotary you have to use a adapter to switch it to work with VoIP. Unfortunately if it’s a new phone I can’t tell you anything.
Thanks for the video. Setup google voice over the weekend successful. Took few tries to get it working but no major issues. Took about 30 mins to setup. Cancelled my vonage account as soon as the device was working :). I had vonage since 2005!! I was paying $48 per month and was too lazy to cancel. Now no monthly fee going forward !!!why did I not do this before .
Oh wow!! YES, this will definitely save you some $$! Glad you got it up and running. We don’t use the OBI a lot, but it’s there when we need it for FREE! I like to use my Google Voice number for people/companies that ask for a phone number so it doesn’t “clog up” my cell phone as much with spam (as I know that’s what will happen). Thanks for commenting and watching!!
Using the Obi box is completely free (after you buy the box, of course). It uses a free Google Voice number which is also 100% free for domestic calls. I’ve heard of Ooma, but yes, they charge you a fee.
very good - understood if a multi phone units from prime connected base, though if not, if Obi is patched into house's phone wiring ancient lines wouldn't any all phones connected work?
Yes, should work. You’d have to tap into the in line to make all your jacks “hot”. Have not done that as my phone box is outside and wasn’t that ambitious.
Installed the OBi200 the other day, make sure you do the firmware update on the OBi200 or it will not work, per Google. And, make sure you have some sort of battery backup, I bought an APC 600V UPS device from Amazon, $66. If the power flickers enough to get your microwave flashing, you will loose phone service and have to reset it. Nice to cut the cord from Xfinity, I am now saving over $150 a month!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 I work nights, and had just gotten home the other day, and the power flickered due to high winds here in the Detroit area... It was just enough to disrupt the clock on the microwave and one other digital clock in the room. Hmmm... I went and checked the phone, and sure enough, the OBi200 was not connected. It took a few minutes to reset and get it back up and running. Not good. So, doing a few minutes of research, it is highly recommended to install some sort of uninterruptible power supply to keep the telephone connection active. So, $66 later, all set. Cheap insurance.
your video is too hard for me to understand. I got the number. I add device and click. there is no way to add the obi device and serial number in obi talk account. Can you please explain with picture???
What an awesome video, thanks! I've been searching on this subject and this is the first video I found that makes sense and is easy to follow. Thanks :)
Problem with Google voice is the I AM GOD complex they and FB, Amazon have. Just try to get in touch with Google if you have issues or to ask why my city doesn't show when I put in my area code.
Thanks for watching and the question, which is a good one. I don’t believe it does. I have the Google Voice App on my phone, so I’m assuming it picks up my contacts from my phone and displays that way. I don’t believe Google Voice displays those on its own.
I happened upon your video yesterday and really enjoyed it them subscribed. I just cancelled my home phone via Comcast bec my cable bill keeps increasing and now on a fixed income I can't afford a big Comcast bill. Months ago a friend told me about Google voice so I got a free phone number from them already but it's been added as an extra number on my cell phone. Question: now that I would like a free landline can I use the current free Google voice number that I already have as a landline number once I buy this Obi thing? I sure hope so. THANKS!
Yes!! Absolutely! Since you already have a Google voice number, half the work is done. You should be able to get the Obi box and then link your Google number to your Obi account. Not too difficult to do. My video should help you when you’re ready to set it up! Thanks for subscribing and asking the question.
Like your video pleas how can move my landline number , my landline number is for 30 years and every where .please how can I cut cord and keep my landline number
Hello, thanks for commenting and watching! From what I’m reading, the only way to port a landline number to Google Voice is to FIRST port it to a cellular service (AT&T, Verizon, etc) and THEN you can port that to Google Voice. And it appears there may be a $20 fee to do it. Might want to Google more to find out the details but that’s what I found. Hope that helps.
Thank you for your video. I used my old landline number with majic jack and am no longer with them, can I still port that old landline number to GV so I can use with this system? The reason I ask is that despite not using their service (MJ) for making or receiving calls, whenever someone calls me on the old landline number I still receive an email informing me of the call and if they leave a message I am able to retrieve it online. Obviously, I cannot return the call on that line since I don't have MJ service. Thank you again.
I believe you can port those numbers to Google Voice, but of course, you’d have to check with their website to verify. It seems these companies changes their policies frequently and hard to keep track of. I’m still enjoying using this method of having a “land line” for free!
This company is no longer selling these units as of 12/21 and they are ending all service 12/23. They're also ending connection with Google Voice. They say it may still work after that date but you're not getting any help for anything. You're rolling the dice buying this thing now. Read Ooma reviews and that thing sounds like a nightmare. For me, as much as I hate paying monthly fees, I am going to go with the home phone service from my internet provider. I despise paying monthly fees less than nonstop headaches from faulty, failing or completely abandoned technology.
Thanks for that update!! I've also put a notice in the description of this video. Really kind of sad as this device has been AWESOME! Mind still works great in connection with Google Voice! We'll see what the future holds. Perhaps we'll see something come on the market comparable.
That's awesome. I'll setup one later. But I have one question whether or not you have an answer for it. If someone from east coast calls you on west coast on a landline (both ends) which is considered a long distance call. Now, same phone call but to Google voice number is still considered long distance one? If it turns out to be true that's not helpful because many people still use 0landline in their home nowadays. Thx.
If you are using a Google voice number via Obi, nothing in the US is considered long distance. It’s just like using your cell phone. Free. Now if you’re asking the other way around (landline to Google voice), I’m not sure. It would all depend on the type of landline you have. If you use AT&T VOIP, I’m sure call within the US are not “long distance”. I’m not aware of phone companies these days talking about long distance. Does that help?
I just purchased an Obi212 & connected it. However, I have multiple phone jacks in my home, how do I configure the Obi to work with multiple jacks and be sure all of my phones have a dial tone? Currently only one phone has a dial tone, but the other phones don’t!
Hi Brian, thanks for the question! The only way to accomplish this is to find the input jack (usually in a basement our on my home outside) from the phone company line and plug the Obi box into that jack. You should then have dial tone to all the jacks in your house. I have not tried this in my home because of where my phone input box is (I don’t have a basement) but I believe it should work. The other option is to buy wireless extension phones and place them around your home (like I have) so when the base rings, the extension phones ring throughout the house. Hope that helps!!
So I’ve read on their website that they will no longer support connecting these boxes to Google Phone. Mind is still functioning, but they could cut it off at any point. So although it would work with a hotspot (provided you had the USB wireless adapter), they don’t appear to be working with Google any longer. Thanks for the question.
If no one answers will this service send the message to your email account.. if so once setup, the box would not need to be plugged in to get your messages.. and by forwarding to others email they could hear that message to your business?
It goes to your voicemail on your account. Google Voice does provide a transcription of the message but I have not looked to see if it is deliverable to an email address. My guess is yes but I haven’t verified that yet. The box has nothing to do with the voicemail.
With Obi, you can call from one Obi box to another Obi box without Google Voice anywhere in the world for free. But when you connect Google voice to an Obi box, you can call anywhere in the US for free. Outside the US would be a charge. But NY to California is no problem. You can take your Obi box with you anywhere as long as you can connect to the internet (like for vacation or moving). Won’t affect the service no matter where you are in the US. Does that answer your question?
Here's another question will I also be able to RECEIVE calls via using Google voice and this Obi thing? Someone posted on Amazon that there could possibly be a fee in order to RECEIVE calls to your Google voice landline number.
No fees at all. You can have it ring your home phone and your cell phone (settings in Google voice). You just hook a regular phone to the box and you’re all set.
not as helpful as i hoped. Have had for years bit moved and got a new router and it works when directly connected to router/modem but when I disconnect from the ethernet the wifi is not working. it starts flashing lights but then just goes to one flashing green light and the obitalk screen now says offline. Did this a number of times but not working. Every time I directly plug into ethernet works fine but when attempt to do wifi it does not work. Obviously a backup unit for phone but want it to work. New house needed help with wifi so have Eero setup. Everything else works great but not the Obihai. Should I delete everything and start over. Already taken hours with this getting frustrated
Sorry your having trouble. Did you get the OBI WiFi adapter or some other brand? Also, did you go into the OBI website and get all that set up with Google Voice ok to where it says it’s active and online? Sometimes, mine goes offline and I unplug the power and usually it reconnects. I remember having some trouble initially setting up the wifi adapter myself, but after you get it working the first time, it has worked ever since. And yes, when all else fails, I usually erase everything and start over. Many times, that does that trick. Let me know how it goes and if you run into anything else specific I can try to troubleshoot with you.
Hi again do I have to purchase and use the WiFi adapter too? And if so why would I have to connect it to my router if it's plugged into the phone jack? THANKS!
The box needs to connect to the internet. You can either connect it directly to your router, or via the Wifi adapter. I use the adapter since my router is in another location in the house. If you have wireless home phones with multiple receivers, put the base near the router and then it will ring all the other extensions in the house. I have two handsets.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 thanks so much. Btw I already have a Comcast modem/router that my current home is plugged into. There's a phone cord going from the modem/router into my dual phone jack box that's attached to my baseboard and the base of my cordless phone is also plugged into the same dual phone jack box. That is how I was getting phone service via Comcast but it will be cut off on 3/1 (I cancelled it). Once I get the Obi box can I just plug the same phone cord currently coming from the modem/router into the Obi box rather than into the dual phone jack box? Sorry if I sound confusing. I'm just trying to see if I can omit the expense of buying the adapter. Thanks.
I think you need to connect a cable to one of your routers jacks (not the phone Jack but an Ethernet cable) then connect the phone base to your Obi box and you’re all set. I don’t believe you can connect your Obi box to an existing phone Jack on the Comcast router. I’m sure it’s reserved for their own phone service (if I’m understanding your question correctly).
Google Voice only works in the US, however, you can use the Obi box calls to another Obi box without Google voice. But there are tons of others ways to connect to people over the internet without having to use this hardware.
Has anyone had a problem where the caller had trouble hearing you but you hear them just fine? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have Obi Talk 2. Thanks!
Is the information in this video still current ? I went to the Google Voice Web-Page and tried to get a Google Voice Phone Number ... but they would not give me one unless I provided a valid, working cell phone number.
Yes, it is current but Google does say this, “A Google Voice number is only supported in the United States and a phone with a US number is required in order to use it.”
OBi isn't going out of business, they are just discontinuing their consumer telephone products to concentrate solely on the business aspect of their telecommunications business.
I’m surprised mine still works as Google has pulled out of this duo. I doubt once gone there’s a way to get it back as they’ve discontinued the service. Sorry I don’t know more.
Try unplugging your OBi adapter for 30 seconds and then plug it back in and wait to see if you get all green lights and a dial tone. It may just need to be rebooted to reconnect to the OBi servers.
QUESTION: I have had google voice for years. Right now when someone calls me my Landline and my cell will both ring at the same time.... Will this Obi do the same (or does the device "take over" the number, so it will no longer ring to my cell and landline) Or is this just another "ring to device"? Thank You
Great question! So with my Google voice account attached to Obi, the Google voice app will ring my cell phone and my “home” Obi phone at the same time. You just have to turn that on in the Google Voice App. Hope that answers your question.
I’m afraid Ive reas that it does not work in the UK unfortunately! You can have the Obi box and call other Obi boxes directly, but Google Voice does not work.
Hi Mattie. I just read on their website they are no longer supporting this technology and those of us who have it will work for a while longer but don’t know when it will be completely turned off. Google still offers free phone number but using the box to connect it to will not be working. I have not seen anything on the market that’s free but I’ll keep my eyes open.
No, I still use mine all the time. I haven’t heard anything. Have you visited their website? My free phone service functions great still. Thanks for the question!
They must have raised the price as it didn’t used to be. I think you can only use their adapter, but I’m not 100% sure and worth some research. Thanks for the price update and for watching/commenting.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thanks for the reply. I have a USB wifi adapter at home as a spare, I will test it out when my Obi200 comes in and let you know.
If you put the device close to your router where you can plug it directly into your router, you don’t need the adapter. If you want the freedom of placing the box anywhere and use wifi, you’ll need the adapter. Good luck!!
This I am not sure on. Someone else on this thread asked the same question and never heard if they got a different brand to work. One would think it would work with any Bluetooth dongle since it’s just connecting to your wifi router. Sorry I can’t offer any more info on this one.
Hi Troy, do you have to set this up at the same wifi location ? Can i set it in my home using my home wifi the Obitalk account and then bring to my store to use ? Must it be connected to same wifi at the same location ?
Hi, Vivienne!! I’ve not tried this myself but I cannot imagine why it wouldn’t work. As long as you then connect it to some kind of internet (wired or wireless) elsewhere I would think it would work. Only thing I could think of is any firewall at the new location. Worth a try. Can’t hurt anything. Let us know how that works!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Hi thank you for your reply , i am a little confuse , Can i use this if i don't have a phone jack ? I can have the option to just plug in the ethernet port from the modem to the OBI right ? As i did not subscribe or pay for a landline in my plan, i don't think it will work me by plugging into the phone jack right ? Thank you so much and hope to see your reply soonest.
Yes, This is meant to be used without a phone Jack. Plug into your Ethernet Jack on your router (or use the wireless feature), then plug a phone into Obi, set up your accounts and you should be good to go. Google Voice only works in the US.
Hi Gabriel!! You do not need a cell phone for this service. You can go to Google Voice online (google for the link) and set up a free account. Once you have that, you just need the OBI box to link the two together and you should be all set.
I have the T-Mobile LineLink home phone VOIP adapter for my home landline. I also have cell service with them as well. I checked to see if my landline number can be ported at it can be ported. (Congratulations.Your mobile number can be ported. ) www.google.com/voice/b/0/porting/ My question is what is the exact procedure to port my T-Mobile LineLink landline number to google voice to work with the OBi200? So basically I am asking how do I port my home land line from T-Mobile to Google Voice so my home landlines ring. Thanks in advance....
Thanks for the comment/question. Once you set up your Google Voice account, you then add it to Obi vía their website. Then, you need the Google Voice App for your cell phone where there is an option to have your cell phone ring when your Obi/Google line rings. You link your cell number to your Google Voice account. Pretty self explanatory once you get the phone app. Let me know if you run into any issues.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thank you for your quick reply. However, I do not want to port my cell number. T-Mobile has a service called LineLink. It is there own VOIP device. Take a quick look here. www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/linelink-setup-and-help I want to know the procedure to port my T-Mobile land line number to Google Voice and the OBi200. Thanks again.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Troy, that link gives porting for a mobile number (cell phone) in or out of Google Voice not the VOIP number iceman382 is talking about. Google requires that it be a cell number, not a voip home number so the steps need to include porting the number from the T-Mobile voip by buying a sim card putting it in an unlocked phone, setting up a temp plan then porting it to Google. There are more videos on doing this.
Great video, I have watched several You Tube videos but none ever told me that I can hook up 1 Obhi and it would connect to all the phones on my home phone network. Also, your video was the only one that provided a link to how I can port my current land line phone number. Thanks for the info.I have subscribed. I have a Roku Smart TV. I shows a Firefox application but I can't figure out how to activate the internet on the TV.....any ideas?
Thanks for the very nice comment and watching!! I’m not sure on the TV. Usually you have to go to a settings area and connect to WiFi or perhaps if it doesn’t offer Wifi you could use an eternity cable. I’ve not worked with a Roku TV. Hope you can get it working!! Smart TVs are the way to go!!
Thanks for watching and the question! I’m not as sure about an xfinity number, but usually, you should be able to “Port” that number to a Google Voice number. Perhaps call Comcast and ask if that’s possible. If they say yes, then all you need to do is create a Google Voice number and connect it to an Obi account and follow the directions in my video and you should be good to go. Keep us posted in case others have this question in the future!
Hi!!! You can connect other phones to your Google number in the Google Voice App. But I believe all that does is when someone calls your Google number, it will ring the connected numbers as well. You can toggle what numbers you want to ring. But I don’t believe it works the other way around where someone calls your cell phone and it rings your google number (unless you turn on call forwarding on your cell). But the Google app has all those settings.
Yes, you can, but it is a little involved. (There are several videos on TH-cam that discuss this, as well as written instructions you can find online. Here's one description: cordcuttingreport.com/port-phone-number-google-voice/). Basically, you CANNOT port your home landline number directly to Google Voice. However, you CAN port your home phone number to a cell phone, and then port your old home landline number from the cell phone to Google Voice. I did it last year, and I was a little anxious starting out, so I watched the various videos and read online descriptions of the process numerous times to be sure I didn't make a false move that might screw up the procedure and cause me to lose my landline number entirely. Fortunately, the process was simple and it worked, and in just about a week's time, maybe slightly less, my old home landline number was ported to an old iPhone with a 30 day T-Mobile sim card installed in it, and then to Google Voice. I now continue to make and receive phone calls from my landline phone, with that old number, but no longer tethered to a phone carrier. Wherever I may move within the US, I can carry my longtime landline number with me, as it is now a Google Voice number. By the way, the Obihai devices are are made by a company called Poly, (formerly Polycom), and you can also get a two-port version, so you can have two separate phone lines. Each line can support two phone connections, so I have my old home phone number--now a Google Voice number--as well as a second Google Voice number--that will ring through to my landline phone, and I have a fax machine plugged into the second port. I still have one open line available on that second port, which I could use for another Google Voice number, or which I could use for 911 calls, (this requires signing up with a subscription service through third party providers, for example Anveo). Be sure to get the devices with "Google Voice" imprinted on the front, as they also offer identical VoIP devices that do NOT work with Google Voice, the only physical difference being that they do NOT have "Google Voice" imprinted on the devices.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 The instructions with Obihai202 say that it does not work with a rotary phone. I just set up the box and my google voice account, all works fine with touchtone phone. Now I'm waiting for Xfinity to finish the porting of my landline phone number (my main objective here is to keep that number that I've had for 40 years) over to a cheap Tracfone (I didn't have an unlocked cell handy) so then I can port it from there to GoogleVoice. This is a bit of a process but it will save me $40+tax+fees per month from Xfinity voip. I got the Obi on Ebay since Amazon was out of stock and it was $200.
if you have a cell number you can change the obihai # to the cell number. Will not let you import a landline number. I actually moved my home number to a home based cell unit to save on regular phone bill then moved from cell to obihai. Now live in a different state nut still have home # that is 35 years old
I kinda have the same question. So I work from home as well but I will be answering incoming calls and sometimes outbound calls. So how will I be able to receive inbound calls for the company I am working with?
@@alternativeremedies9739 if trying to incorporate a Landline number will not work. They give you a new number to start with and you can change from a cell number but not a landline number. If your company let's you use your own phone number you can just use the number they give you. Hope that helps
No, you don’t need a laptop but you have to set up an Obi account and Google voice account on the internet first after you get the box. You need the number off the bottom of the Obi box to get it to work.
EE, I might be able to do a Skype or Zoom session with you and see if we can get you going. Send me an email at bondtk@gmail.com if you’d like and we can set up a time.
I’ve not used a Magic Jack but have seen/heard of them. I think the integration with Google Voice makes this setup just a little bit more involved where Magic Jack already has their phone service built in. Also, it appears Magic Jack gives you 1 year free service but after that you have to choose a plan starting at $39/year where this OBI/Google Voice setup is FREE always (just the 1 time cost of the box). Thanks for viewing and commenting!!
That I am not sure about, sorry. Hopefully on the Google voice site they can assist in answering that. I would venture to take a guess as yes but can’t verify that.
I have no network no cable no cell towers no anything here I do not have a home phone or land line there is a cell tower about 15 miles from here which is Verizon I have a cell phone and all apple products and I have a s corporation on line in which o need high security . So I def could use some help plz I don’t know what to use broadband or what my zip. Code is 18837i do have some old routers if I can use them for sometihing lol
Hi Dorothy! You don’t need a cell phone. You need 1) Home internet service (broadband) via cable usually 2) The OBI box from Amazon 3) Sign up for a Google Voice number (free) on their website. Once you have those items in place, you should be able to follow my video to get things connected. Let me know if you run into any more issues that I can possibly help with remotely.
Yes, your home needs to have some kind of internet access that is “always on” for the Obi box to stay connected to. Won’t work without a home internet connection of some kind.
Hi, first very nice video thanks. I have a question for you I know Google Voice is Fre, but if I receive an Incoming call from overseas and I answer it do I get a charge from voice? I know if I call in Europe with my G V number in my Cell I get charged, but I like to know if charges applied for the incoming calls. Than you again for a great video.
Thanks for watching and the comments and question, Daniel! I can’t say for sure (and I’m sure we’d have to scour Google’s website to be 100% sure) but I highly doubt you would have any kind of fee for any incoming calls. I’m sure that would go against some kind of regulation being charged for picking up a call you didn’t make. It should be just as if the person is dialing the United States. Thanks again!
I'm all for doing things ourselves and saving money, but I still put a price on my privacy. Google people! Google! Do you think it's just possible that they are storing all of your calls? Come-on, use your head. Some could care less, but everyone else better think about the price you're paying for a "Free" service. I know it feels good to be making all of those "free" calls, but you are paying for them whether you think so or not. While you're at it, why don't you give some of your DNA to 23&Me?
Love this! Do you have a cell phone? If you’re worried about Google you should be worried about any communication device that transmits. I don’t think Google or anyone else cares what we say on our phones unless they have a court order to tap the lines they shouldn’t be. I’m not worried and more than with my cell phone.
I agree with you onceafireman! I am sacrificing my privacy already with Google. I think most of us are. I do use Duck Duck Go to search and Brave as a browser, but my gmail account and the website I manage and google docs that are shared - it's so hard because they are really good at all this! Such a smart business model.
I don’t think the average person could trace your location, but just like any electronic device, usually you are leaving a “footprint” somehow. You do have to connect to the OBI service with your information but again, that’s not public information. But your number travels with you if you move so your Google Voice area code could be somewhere completely different from where you actually live. Thanks for the question!
1. Sign up for a Google Voice account 2. Purchase the OBI box from Amazon (or electronic store) 3. Connect your Google Voice account to your OBI account from the OBI website. Then connect your box as I show in the video. It’s really pretty easy. Just follow the direction from my video and that should help get you going. Let me know if you run into any specific problems and I’ll try to help out best I can.
Just FYI, at the end of this year all OBiTalk consumer telephone adapters will reach their End of Life meaning that if you have not associated a Google Voice number before the End of Life Date (December 18th) then basically you have a nice OBiTalk paperweight.
What if i get it before end of life support
@@nolongerusedanymore If you have the OBi adapter in hand and can get it to sucessfully associate your OBi account with your Google account before December 18, 2023 then you should be able to make and receive phone calls on a hardline telephone connected to your OBi200 adapter. HOWEVER, an important CAVAET if you purchased your OBi telephone adapter on or after December 18, 2021 (2 years ago) then very likely you have a reconditioned/pre-owned/used OBi telephone adapter and if that is the case and the previous owner of the device did not disassociate the adapter's serial number and nine digit OBi to OBi telephone number from their account then there is a possibility that your attempts to do a setup will be rejected and your out of luck, so be VERY VERY careful when buying an OBi telephony device on services like Amazon or eBay because you may be getting ripped off by being sold an OBi device that is BRICKED. Another CAVAET you should be aware of, if OBi decides to shutdown their servers or Google Voice makes an update to their backend network that breaks the OBi-Google Voice association then unfortunately your out of luck and can't do anything further.
I’ve had mine since making this video and thankfully it still works! Thanks to Rick for providing this last minute information on end of life. I’ll just let mine go until it just stops working one day. At least I’ll still be able to maintain my Google Voice Account.
Thank you so much! Now I can work my 2nd job from home. I'm a single mom and I really needed this information. I didn't want to leave my child home alone while making ends meet. But thanks to you I CAN! I pray God blesses you for sharing this information!!! 🙏🏿😊
So glad it was helpful!! I’ve enjoyed having mine for years!
Just discovered this channel and I love it. I’m definitely going to set this up in my parents house who still have a landline instead of them paying $40 a month for it. Thanks!
Thank you for watching and leaving a kind comment!! That’s what I told my friends at work too. They were paying for a bundle with their internet providers and I’m like, “You should get this free service and cancel with them. Save you TONS of money.” She did and also had her mom switch. Great alternative!!
You can plug one end of the phone cable into a the phone jack (the one on your wall) and the other in the obihai box and now you can place more phones around the house.
Excellent suggestion!!! Thank you for commenting!!!
Wow, does this actually work? 😲😲
My thought was to connect the box to the phone import jack usually located on the outside of your house (some houses have them) where it would make the rest of your jacks “active” through the OBI device. Definitely worth investigating. I have wireless handsets so not necessary for me.
watched your video -- bought the ObiTalk --- and I love it! Thank you!
So glad it's working out for you! Thanks for watching and commenting!!
I bought one
But its not working
I can only receive
I can't call
@@apakabar9022 what type of phone are you using, either it could be a broken phone where it could not dial out, or if it’s a rotary you have to use a adapter to switch it to work with VoIP. Unfortunately if it’s a new phone I can’t tell you anything.
Thanks for the video. Setup google voice over the weekend successful. Took few tries to get it working but no major issues. Took about 30 mins to setup. Cancelled my vonage account as soon as the device was working :). I had vonage since 2005!! I was paying $48 per month and was too lazy to cancel. Now no monthly fee going forward !!!why did I not do this before .
Oh wow!! YES, this will definitely save you some $$! Glad you got it up and running. We don’t use the OBI a lot, but it’s there when we need it for FREE! I like to use my Google Voice number for people/companies that ask for a phone number so it doesn’t “clog up” my cell phone as much with spam (as I know that’s what will happen). Thanks for commenting and watching!!
We've had "free" ooma for many years but it's up to almost $6 a month now for taxes. It does have E911 service though.
Using the Obi box is completely free (after you buy the box, of course). It uses a free Google Voice number which is also 100% free for domestic calls. I’ve heard of Ooma, but yes, they charge you a fee.
Great video should have more than 17k views, really good!
Thank you! Trying to get viewership up, but kind of slow! Thanks for the encouraging comment and for watching!
very good - understood if a multi phone units from prime connected base, though if not, if Obi is patched into house's phone wiring ancient lines wouldn't any all phones connected work?
Yes, should work. You’d have to tap into the in line to make all your jacks “hot”. Have not done that as my phone box is outside and wasn’t that ambitious.
thanks i am a trained weatherspotter this will help me
Excellent!! Glad it was helpful!!
Installed the OBi200 the other day, make sure you do the firmware update on the OBi200 or it will not work, per Google. And, make sure you have some sort of battery backup, I bought an APC 600V UPS device from Amazon, $66. If the power flickers enough to get your microwave flashing, you will loose phone service and have to reset it. Nice to cut the cord from Xfinity, I am now saving over $150 a month!
Great idea on a battery backup!! That’s such awesome news to save that much money!!! Thanks for sharing!!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 I work nights, and had just gotten home the other day, and the power flickered due to high winds here in the Detroit area... It was just enough to disrupt the clock on the microwave and one other digital clock in the room. Hmmm... I went and checked the phone, and sure enough, the OBi200 was not connected. It took a few minutes to reset and get it back up and running. Not good. So, doing a few minutes of research, it is highly recommended to install some sort of uninterruptible power supply to keep the telephone connection active. So, $66 later, all set. Cheap insurance.
your video is too hard for me to understand. I got the number. I add device and click. there is no way to add the obi device and serial number in obi talk account. Can you please explain with picture???
What an awesome video, thanks! I've been searching on this subject and this is the first video I found that makes sense and is easy to follow. Thanks :)
Glad it was helpful!!! Thanks!!
None of this applies anymore. Obi has discontinued services.
Thanks for sharing this how can I get it I am form Nigeria thanks
Problem with Google voice is the I AM GOD complex they and FB, Amazon have. Just try to get in touch with Google if you have issues or to ask why my city doesn't show when I put in my area code.
Can’t argue with that!!
Good video Does it show the name and number of the caller when they are not apart of your contacts?
Thanks for watching and the question, which is a good one. I don’t believe it does. I have the Google Voice App on my phone, so I’m assuming it picks up my contacts from my phone and displays that way. I don’t believe Google Voice displays those on its own.
Thanks so much for this video. I really appreciate you as well helping me to figure it out. You are amazing Troy.
Thank you very much! So glad we were able to figure everything out!!
I happened upon your video yesterday and really enjoyed it them subscribed. I just cancelled my home phone via Comcast bec my cable bill keeps increasing and now on a fixed income I can't afford a big Comcast bill.
Months ago a friend told me about Google voice so I got a free phone number from them already but it's been added as an extra number on my cell phone. Question: now that I would like a free landline can I use the current free Google voice number that I already have as a landline number once I buy this Obi thing? I sure hope so. THANKS!
Yes!! Absolutely! Since you already have a Google voice number, half the work is done. You should be able to get the Obi box and then link your Google number to your Obi account. Not too difficult to do. My video should help you when you’re ready to set it up! Thanks for subscribing and asking the question.
Like your video pleas how can move my landline number , my landline number is for 30 years and every where .please how can I cut cord and keep my landline number
Hello, thanks for commenting and watching! From what I’m reading, the only way to port a landline number to Google Voice is to FIRST port it to a cellular service (AT&T, Verizon, etc) and THEN you can port that to Google Voice. And it appears there may be a $20 fee to do it. Might want to Google more to find out the details but that’s what I found. Hope that helps.
Thank you for your video. I used my old landline number with majic jack and am no longer with them, can I still port that old landline number to GV so I can use with this system? The reason I ask is that despite not using their service (MJ) for making or receiving calls, whenever someone calls me on the old landline number I still receive an email informing me of the call and if they leave a message I am able to retrieve it online. Obviously, I cannot return the call on that line since I don't have MJ service.
Thank you again.
I believe you can port those numbers to Google Voice, but of course, you’d have to check with their website to verify. It seems these companies changes their policies frequently and hard to keep track of. I’m still enjoying using this method of having a “land line” for free!
This company is no longer selling these units as of 12/21 and they are ending all service 12/23. They're also ending connection with Google Voice. They say it may still work after that date but you're not getting any help for anything. You're rolling the dice buying this thing now. Read Ooma reviews and that thing sounds like a nightmare. For me, as much as I hate paying monthly fees, I am going to go with the home phone service from my internet provider. I despise paying monthly fees less than nonstop headaches from faulty, failing or completely abandoned technology.
Thanks for that update!! I've also put a notice in the description of this video. Really kind of sad as this device has been AWESOME! Mind still works great in connection with Google Voice! We'll see what the future holds. Perhaps we'll see something come on the market comparable.
That's awesome. I'll setup one later. But I have one question whether or not you have an answer for it. If someone from east coast calls you on west coast on a landline (both ends) which is considered a long distance call. Now, same phone call but to Google voice number is still considered long distance one? If it turns out to be true that's not helpful because many people still use 0landline in their home nowadays. Thx.
If you are using a Google voice number via Obi, nothing in the US is considered long distance. It’s just like using your cell phone. Free. Now if you’re asking the other way around (landline to Google voice), I’m not sure. It would all depend on the type of landline you have. If you use AT&T VOIP, I’m sure call within the US are not “long distance”. I’m not aware of phone companies these days talking about long distance. Does that help?
I just purchased an Obi212 & connected it. However, I have multiple phone jacks in my home, how do I configure the Obi to work with multiple jacks and be sure all of my phones have a dial tone?
Currently only one phone has a dial tone, but the other phones don’t!
Hi Brian, thanks for the question! The only way to accomplish this is to find the input jack (usually in a basement our on my home outside) from the phone company line and plug the Obi box into that jack. You should then have dial tone to all the jacks in your house. I have not tried this in my home because of where my phone input box is (I don’t have a basement) but I believe it should work. The other option is to buy wireless extension phones and place them around your home (like I have) so when the base rings, the extension phones ring throughout the house. Hope that helps!!
I got this to work with a rotary phone
No way! That’s cool and good to know.
Hi can you use the phone with a hotspot? Thank you
So I’ve read on their website that they will no longer support connecting these boxes to Google Phone. Mind is still functioning, but they could cut it off at any point. So although it would work with a hotspot (provided you had the USB wireless adapter), they don’t appear to be working with Google any longer. Thanks for the question.
If no one answers will this service send the message to your email account.. if so once setup, the box would not need to be plugged in to get your messages.. and by forwarding to others email they could hear that message to your business?
It goes to your voicemail on your account. Google Voice does provide a transcription of the message but I have not looked to see if it is deliverable to an email address. My guess is yes but I haven’t verified that yet. The box has nothing to do with the voicemail.
Can I set up Google talk on Obi box from NY and then take Obi box to use in California?
With Obi, you can call from one Obi box to another Obi box without Google Voice anywhere in the world for free. But when you connect Google voice to an Obi box, you can call anywhere in the US for free. Outside the US would be a charge. But NY to California is no problem. You can take your Obi box with you anywhere as long as you can connect to the internet (like for vacation or moving). Won’t affect the service no matter where you are in the US. Does that answer your question?
Here's another question will I also be able to RECEIVE calls via using Google voice and this Obi thing? Someone posted on Amazon that there could possibly be a fee in order to RECEIVE calls to your Google voice landline number.
No fees at all. You can have it ring your home phone and your cell phone (settings in Google voice). You just hook a regular phone to the box and you’re all set.
not as helpful as i hoped. Have had for years bit moved and got a new router and it works when directly connected to router/modem but when I disconnect from the ethernet the wifi is not working. it starts flashing lights but then just goes to one flashing green light and the obitalk screen now says offline. Did this a number of times but not working. Every time I directly plug into ethernet works fine but when attempt to do wifi it does not work. Obviously a backup unit for phone but want it to work. New house needed help with wifi so have Eero setup. Everything else works great but not the Obihai. Should I delete everything and start over. Already taken hours with this getting frustrated
Sorry your having trouble. Did you get the OBI WiFi adapter or some other brand? Also, did you go into the OBI website and get all that set up with Google Voice ok to where it says it’s active and online? Sometimes, mine goes offline and I unplug the power and usually it reconnects. I remember having some trouble initially setting up the wifi adapter myself, but after you get it working the first time, it has worked ever since. And yes, when all else fails, I usually erase everything and start over. Many times, that does that trick. Let me know how it goes and if you run into anything else specific I can try to troubleshoot with you.
Hi again do I have to purchase and use the WiFi adapter too?
And if so why would I have to connect it to my router if it's plugged into the phone jack? THANKS!
The box needs to connect to the internet. You can either connect it directly to your router, or via the Wifi adapter. I use the adapter since my router is in another location in the house. If you have wireless home phones with multiple receivers, put the base near the router and then it will ring all the other extensions in the house. I have two handsets.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 thanks so much. Btw I already have a Comcast modem/router that my current home is plugged into. There's a phone cord going from the modem/router into my dual phone jack box that's attached to my baseboard and the base of my cordless phone is also plugged into the same dual phone jack box. That is how I was getting phone service via Comcast but it will be cut off on 3/1 (I cancelled it). Once I get the Obi box can I just plug the same phone cord currently coming from the modem/router into the Obi box rather than into the dual phone jack box? Sorry if I sound confusing. I'm just trying to see if I can omit the expense of buying the adapter. Thanks.
I think you need to connect a cable to one of your routers jacks (not the phone Jack but an Ethernet cable) then connect the phone base to your Obi box and you’re all set. I don’t believe you can connect your Obi box to an existing phone Jack on the Comcast router. I’m sure it’s reserved for their own phone service (if I’m understanding your question correctly).
i heard this doesnt work anymore please me no if its working again
Mine works fine. Sometimes it goes offline but a quick restart usually does the trick.
Thanks for video, can this work in Germany?
Google Voice only works in the US, however, you can use the Obi box calls to another Obi box without Google voice. But there are tons of others ways to connect to people over the internet without having to use this hardware.
Has anyone had a problem where the caller had trouble hearing you but you hear them just fine? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have Obi Talk 2. Thanks!
Hi Brandon! Thanks for the question!! I personally have not experienced that. Perhaps another person reading your question might be able to respond.
You might want to know that you can no longer get a Google voice number unless you have your cell phone connected to the account.
Ok, thanks for letting us all know!
Is the information in this video still current ? I went to the Google Voice Web-Page and tried to get a Google Voice Phone Number ... but they would not give me one unless I provided a valid, working cell phone number.
Yes, it is current but Google does say this, “A Google Voice number is only supported in the United States and a phone with a US number is required in order to use it.”
Since this company is going out of business, is there an alternative that you recommend?
I don’t know of one that is comparable unfortunately. I should probably hide this video eventually. Thanks for the question!
OBi isn't going out of business, they are just discontinuing their consumer telephone products to concentrate solely on the business aspect of their telecommunications business.
MINE STOPPED WORKING HOW TO GET IT WORKING AGAIN
I’m surprised mine still works as Google has pulled out of this duo. I doubt once gone there’s a way to get it back as they’ve discontinued the service. Sorry I don’t know more.
Try unplugging your OBi adapter for 30 seconds and then plug it back in and wait to see if you get all green lights and a dial tone. It may just need to be rebooted to reconnect to the OBi servers.
Great information! Are there any other hidden fees or charges like taxes?
No, no fees whatsoever as long as it’s domestic calling. You can use it internationally too, but that does cost a little bit.
QUESTION: I have had google voice for years. Right now when someone calls me my Landline and my cell will both ring at the same time.... Will this Obi do the same (or does the device "take over" the number, so it will no longer ring to my cell and landline) Or is this just another "ring to device"? Thank You
Great question! So with my Google voice account attached to Obi, the Google voice app will ring my cell phone and my “home” Obi phone at the same time. You just have to turn that on in the Google Voice App. Hope that answers your question.
TROY CAN THIS WORK IN THE UK DO NOT BELIEVE IT CAN GORDON
I’m afraid Ive reas that it does not work in the UK unfortunately! You can have the Obi box and call other Obi boxes directly, but Google Voice does not work.
Great video!!
Thank you for watching and the nice comment. Glad it was helpful!!!
Mattie Henley I need me a house phone, Can you please help me with that
Hi Mattie. I just read on their website they are no longer supporting this technology and those of us who have it will work for a while longer but don’t know when it will be completely turned off. Google still offers free phone number but using the box to connect it to will not be working. I have not seen anything on the market that’s free but I’ll keep my eyes open.
google voice is gone now, yes?
No, I still use mine all the time. I haven’t heard anything. Have you visited their website? My free phone service functions great still. Thanks for the question!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 How do you access it? It's no longer on the bottom left-hand gmail menu.
Here's the link.voice.google.com/about I think it only works within the United States.
The wifi adapter is the same price as the unit itself. Can any USB wifi adapter work ?
They must have raised the price as it didn’t used to be. I think you can only use their adapter, but I’m not 100% sure and worth some research. Thanks for the price update and for watching/commenting.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thanks for the reply. I have a USB wifi adapter at home as a spare, I will test it out when my Obi200 comes in and let you know.
Awesome! I’d love to hear how it works!
If i buy the device do i also need the adapter or is the device all i need?
If you put the device close to your router where you can plug it directly into your router, you don’t need the adapter. If you want the freedom of placing the box anywhere and use wifi, you’ll need the adapter. Good luck!!
Can you use any USB Wifi dongle with this or has it 'got' to be their own branded version?
This I am not sure on. Someone else on this thread asked the same question and never heard if they got a different brand to work. One would think it would work with any Bluetooth dongle since it’s just connecting to your wifi router. Sorry I can’t offer any more info on this one.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 I don't understand as WIFI and Bluetooth are not the same??
The wireless dongle is WiFi not Bluetooth. So they offer a WiFi dongle for sale from OBI, but some are trying to use other brands.
I see where the confusion is. My comment above said “Bluetooth Dongle” but in fact it’s a WiFi dongle. Sorry about that.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thank you for clearing that up. I am thinking of getting one.
Hi Troy, do you have to set this up at the same wifi location ? Can i set it in my home using my home wifi the Obitalk account and then bring to my store to use ? Must it be connected to same wifi at the same location ?
Hi, Vivienne!! I’ve not tried this myself but I cannot imagine why it wouldn’t work. As long as you then connect it to some kind of internet (wired or wireless) elsewhere I would think it would work. Only thing I could think of is any firewall at the new location. Worth a try. Can’t hurt anything. Let us know how that works!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Hi thank you for your reply , i am a little confuse , Can i use this if i don't have a phone jack ? I can have the option to just plug in the ethernet port from the modem to the OBI right ? As i did not subscribe or pay for a landline in my plan, i don't think it will work me by plugging into the phone jack right ? Thank you so much and hope to see your reply soonest.
Yes, This is meant to be used without a phone Jack. Plug into your Ethernet Jack on your router (or use the wireless feature), then plug a phone into Obi, set up your accounts and you should be good to go. Google Voice only works in the US.
Can i use that overseas
You can use the box anywhere and call anyone who also has an Obi box but Google voice numbers only work in the USA.
So if I don't have a cellphone is this still free and how do I get a Google voice number without a cell?
Hi Gabriel!! You do not need a cell phone for this service. You can go to Google Voice online (google for the link) and set up a free account. Once you have that, you just need the OBI box to link the two together and you should be all set.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thanks, I was able to set it up and it works great!
Awesome!! Glad it works for you!!
Thank you.
I have the T-Mobile LineLink home phone VOIP adapter for my home landline. I also have cell service with them as well. I checked to see if my landline number can be ported at it can be ported. (Congratulations.Your mobile number can be ported. ) www.google.com/voice/b/0/porting/
My question is what is the exact procedure to port my T-Mobile LineLink landline number to google voice to work with the OBi200?
So basically I am asking how do I port my home land line from T-Mobile to Google Voice so my home landlines ring.
Thanks in advance....
Thanks for the comment/question. Once you set up your Google Voice account, you then add it to Obi vía their website. Then, you need the Google Voice App for your cell phone where there is an option to have your cell phone ring when your Obi/Google line rings. You link your cell number to your Google Voice account. Pretty self explanatory once you get the phone app. Let me know if you run into any issues.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thank you for your quick reply. However, I do not want to port my cell number. T-Mobile has a service called LineLink. It is there own VOIP device. Take a quick look here. www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/linelink-setup-and-help
I want to know the procedure to port my T-Mobile land line number to Google Voice and the OBi200. Thanks again.
Ok I’m understanding now. Try this link for porting instructions. support.google.com/voice/answer/1065667?hl=en
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thanks....I have to order the Obi200 and then I will get things setup.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Troy, that link gives porting for a mobile number (cell phone) in or out of Google Voice not the VOIP number iceman382 is talking about. Google requires that it be a cell number, not a voip home number so the steps need to include porting the number from the T-Mobile voip by buying a sim card putting it in an unlocked phone, setting up a temp plan then porting it to Google. There are more videos on doing this.
Great video, I have watched several You Tube videos but none ever told me that I can hook up 1 Obhi and it would connect to all the phones on my
home phone network. Also, your video was the only one that provided a link to how I can port my current land line phone number. Thanks for the info.I have subscribed.
I have a Roku Smart TV. I shows a Firefox application but I can't figure out how to activate the internet on the TV.....any ideas?
Thanks for the very nice comment and watching!! I’m not sure on the TV. Usually you have to go to a settings area and connect to WiFi or perhaps if it doesn’t offer Wifi you could use an eternity cable. I’ve not worked with a Roku TV. Hope you can get it working!! Smart TVs are the way to go!!
I have xfinity connection with my land line phones .
How do I get rid of xfinity for Obi. connection and keep my same number
Thanks for watching and the question! I’m not as sure about an xfinity number, but usually, you should be able to “Port” that number to a Google Voice number. Perhaps call Comcast and ask if that’s possible. If they say yes, then all you need to do is create a Google Voice number and connect it to an Obi account and follow the directions in my video and you should be good to go. Keep us posted in case others have this question in the future!
Thanks
Really helpful video Mahalo!
Thank you for watching and commenting!
Is there any way that I can port my home phone number to google voice?
Hi!!! You can connect other phones to your Google number in the Google Voice App. But I believe all that does is when someone calls your Google number, it will ring the connected numbers as well. You can toggle what numbers you want to ring. But I don’t believe it works the other way around where someone calls your cell phone and it rings your google number (unless you turn on call forwarding on your cell). But the Google app has all those settings.
Yes, you can, but it is a little involved. (There are several videos on TH-cam that discuss this, as well as written instructions you can find online. Here's one description: cordcuttingreport.com/port-phone-number-google-voice/). Basically, you CANNOT port your home landline number directly to Google Voice. However, you CAN port your home phone number to a cell phone, and then port your old home landline number from the cell phone to Google Voice. I did it last year, and I was a little anxious starting out, so I watched the various videos and read online descriptions of the process numerous times to be sure I didn't make a false move that might screw up the procedure and cause me to lose my landline number entirely. Fortunately, the process was simple and it worked, and in just about a week's time, maybe slightly less, my old home landline number was ported to an old iPhone with a 30 day T-Mobile sim card installed in it, and then to Google Voice. I now continue to make and receive phone calls from my landline phone, with that old number, but no longer tethered to a phone carrier. Wherever I may move within the US, I can carry my longtime landline number with me, as it is now a Google Voice number.
By the way, the Obihai devices are are made by a company called Poly, (formerly Polycom), and you can also get a two-port version, so you can have two separate phone lines. Each line can support two phone connections, so I have my old home phone number--now a Google Voice number--as well as a second Google Voice number--that will ring through to my landline phone, and I have a fax machine plugged into the second port. I still have one open line available on that second port, which I could use for another Google Voice number, or which I could use for 911 calls, (this requires signing up with a subscription service through third party providers, for example Anveo). Be sure to get the devices with "Google Voice" imprinted on the front, as they also offer identical VoIP devices that do NOT work with Google Voice, the only physical difference being that they do NOT have "Google Voice" imprinted on the devices.
@@robertcook2680 I did same and now live I'm another state with the landline # I had for over 35 years!
Does this work with a rotary phone.
I don’t think so as you have to press the keys to do things. At least I’m not sure on that but I doubt it. Cool you have a rotary phone ☎️!!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 The instructions with Obihai202 say that it does not work with a rotary phone. I just set up the box and my google voice account, all works fine with touchtone phone. Now I'm waiting for Xfinity to finish the porting of my landline phone number (my main objective here is to keep that number that I've had for 40 years) over to a cheap Tracfone (I didn't have an unlocked cell handy) so then I can port it from there to GoogleVoice. This is a bit of a process but it will save me $40+tax+fees per month from Xfinity voip. I got the Obi on Ebay since Amazon was out of stock and it was $200.
Awesome news!! I think you will enjoy it. Like having it as a second number for “home”.
Can I use this for work I need a landline at home
I work for home
What about my phone number
Yes! You can get a Google voice number and tie it in the app to your cell number as a forwarded number. I’ve used it that way too!!
if you have a cell number you can change the obihai # to the cell number. Will not let you import a landline number. I actually moved my home number to a home based cell unit to save on regular phone bill then moved from cell to obihai. Now live in a different state nut still have home # that is 35 years old
I kinda have the same question. So I work from home as well but I will be answering incoming calls and sometimes outbound calls. So how will I be able to receive inbound calls for the company I am working with?
@@alternativeremedies9739 if trying to incorporate a Landline number will not work. They give you a new number to start with and you can change from a cell number but not a landline number. If your company let's you use your own phone number you can just use the number they give you. Hope that helps
Do we have to own lqptop to operate this
No, you don’t need a laptop but you have to set up an Obi account and Google voice account on the internet first after you get the box. You need the number off the bottom of the Obi box to get it to work.
I tried maybe I missed something but it does not work. I wish I can call you when i set it up
EE, I might be able to do a Skype or Zoom session with you and see if we can get you going. Send me an email at bondtk@gmail.com if you’d like and we can set up a time.
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 how can I get the google voice on my google email?
What’s different between this and ooma
I believe Ooma is just another VOIP service. But my guess is you’d have to pay a regular fee for that where this you do not. Hope that helps!!
I bought one in Amazon but its not working no service
does google voice work in QATAR?
No, I don’t believe you can use Google Voice outside the United States unfortunately.
tough to hear
Sorry about that. Working on getting the best volume output I can.
why is this one so much harder than magicJack?
I’ve not used a Magic Jack but have seen/heard of them. I think the integration with Google Voice makes this setup just a little bit more involved where Magic Jack already has their phone service built in. Also, it appears Magic Jack gives you 1 year free service but after that you have to choose a plan starting at $39/year where this OBI/Google Voice setup is FREE always (just the 1 time cost of the box). Thanks for viewing and commenting!!
Can I use it in uk
That I am not sure about, sorry. Hopefully on the Google voice site they can assist in answering that. I would venture to take a guess as yes but can’t verify that.
I have no network no cable no cell towers no anything here I do not have a home phone or land line there is a cell tower about 15 miles from here which is Verizon I have a cell phone and all apple products and I have a s corporation on line in which o need high security . So I def could use some help plz I don’t know what to use broadband or what my zip. Code is 18837i do have some old routers if I can use them for sometihing lol
Hi Dorothy! You don’t need a cell phone. You need 1) Home internet service (broadband) via cable usually 2) The OBI box from Amazon 3) Sign up for a Google Voice number (free) on their website. Once you have those items in place, you should be able to follow my video to get things connected. Let me know if you run into any more issues that I can possibly help with remotely.
Tech Talk with Troy we have no cable here either but I’ll try for broad band
Thru Verizon is the only network that has a tower close to me
Yes, your home needs to have some kind of internet access that is “always on” for the Obi box to stay connected to. Won’t work without a home internet connection of some kind.
Hi, first very nice video thanks. I have a question for you I know Google Voice is Fre, but if I receive an Incoming call from overseas and I answer it do I get a charge from voice? I know if I call in Europe with my G V number in my Cell I get charged, but I like to know if charges applied for the incoming calls. Than you again for a great video.
Thanks for watching and the comments and question, Daniel! I can’t say for sure (and I’m sure we’d have to scour Google’s website to be 100% sure) but I highly doubt you would have any kind of fee for any incoming calls. I’m sure that would go against some kind of regulation being charged for picking up a call you didn’t make. It should be just as if the person is dialing the United States. Thanks again!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 Thank you.
Google voice account available unlimited.......
I'm all for doing things ourselves and saving money, but I still put a price on my privacy. Google people! Google! Do you think it's just possible that they are storing all of your calls? Come-on, use your head. Some could care less, but everyone else better think about the price you're paying for a "Free" service. I know it feels good to be making all of those "free" calls, but you are paying for them whether you think so or not. While you're at it, why don't you give some of your DNA to 23&Me?
Love this! Do you have a cell phone? If you’re worried about Google you should be worried about any communication device that transmits. I don’t think Google or anyone else cares what we say on our phones unless they have a court order to tap the lines they shouldn’t be. I’m not worried and more than with my cell phone.
I agree with you onceafireman! I am sacrificing my privacy already with Google. I think most of us are. I do use Duck Duck Go to search and Brave as a browser, but my gmail account and the website I manage and google docs that are shared - it's so hard because they are really good at all this! Such a smart business model.
omg that intro
Good/bad?
Can someone trace your location?
I don’t think the average person could trace your location, but just like any electronic device, usually you are leaving a “footprint” somehow. You do have to connect to the OBI service with your information but again, that’s not public information. But your number travels with you if you move so your Google Voice area code could be somewhere completely different from where you actually live. Thanks for the question!
@@techtalkwithtroy7975 thanks now plz tell how can one go ahead
1. Sign up for a Google Voice account 2. Purchase the OBI box from Amazon (or electronic store) 3. Connect your Google Voice account to your OBI account from the OBI website. Then connect your box as I show in the video. It’s really pretty easy. Just follow the direction from my video and that should help get you going. Let me know if you run into any specific problems and I’ll try to help out best I can.
1:05
too low volume =need better mic for u tuber = next time put the mic closer to your mouth or do something = i could barely hear your voice
Thanks for the suggestions!