I just wanted to come back and say thanks for this video. I set up the ObiHai per your instructions and ported over my landline around a year ago. I have saved close to $600 so far. Thanks again!!
I have the same one. It's amazing. Not a single spam/telemarketer for years. Google Voicemail to text/email is a lifesaver for my cell phone. No longer have to deal with their terrible/slow over the phone voicemail system. I prefer the legacy interface for google voice
I've been using this same setup for a few months, and it works great! Previously we had Magic Jack ($35 yr), but decided to go the completely free route. You can pay for services such as 911, but we just use this as a teen line, so choose not to. Anyone still paying for a landline should really consider this. You can use your own Gmail address, or as we did create a new one just for this phone, so we don't get bothered with voicemail messages to our cell phone (alternatively, you could just turn off notifications).
I got this a week ago. It was without doubt the easiest device I've ever setup (3 minutes), works flawlessly with my GV number. I am getting spam calls now but it works great.
You mention that to make Google Voice call from your cell that a two step process is required. On Android, that's not true. Simply install the Google Voice app, and a new calling option is then available in the native dialer to use Google Voice for all calls or international calls only. It does not use VoIP for the call but instead dials Google's US based numbers that work in conjunction with caller ID to identify your call, which is then routed out of Google's outbound lines with your GV number as the outbound called ID. I've been using that feature for years specifically for all my international dialing. Glad to see Google have opened up SIP integration. It was there back when Google first launched the service, post Grand Central aquisition, but it quickly went away. I'm interested to know if the SIP URI for Google is documented publicly anywhere.
jjwatmyself about two years ago, I switched to Android from iPhone, but even back then, I used the Hangouts app on iOS and it let my iPhone behave as if it had two phone numbers. I could dial out with Hangouts, receive calls. I've never heard of this two step thing before? of course, it still operates that way on my Android phone, is it not that way anymore on iOS? weird.
Yeah, I didn't understand that part either. Maybe he has his account set up differently. I've always been able to make calls from the Voice/Hangouts apps on iOS directly.
Brad Melendy on Android you have two choices... VoIP via the handouts dialer app and cellular voice dialing via the native Android dialer (like a very slick calling card). I use the latter as has bare minimum dependency on data.
Yes that's true, one option will patch/handoff your calls using your cellular minutes (nowdays it's unlimited anyway) which is the "old" method, but now you can also set it to use pure VoIP switching with no call patching/handoff. From what I understand, is that you would install the regular Hangouts app, then also install the Hangouts "Dialer" app which you only have to run once (probably installs itself as a background service/activity) and you're all set using the regular Hangouts app and the phone's native dialer. I prefer the later, since I have plenty of bandwidth and virtually no delay for patching/handoff. Old timers can probably appreciate this new "old" tech, after all it's a cool toy to have. Question: Can you set a rule in Google Voice so that callers with no callerID, blocked or even with specific callerID to be dropped into a recording like "The number you have reached is no longer in service...", instead of just ringing and eventually going to voice mail. This would be super cool to throw those pesky callers off into thinking you're no longer in service. ;) Thanks in advance.
Thanks... This worked for me between watching your video and that of another who touts Google Voice as well. It was not very easy and not a quick process (7 Days) but I did follow your steps and they worked. Longest part was porting the landline to a tracfone and then to Google. Now I only pay for internet. Cut Cable TV and the Phone. Bill went from $215 to $74.
Another good video Lon, but one thing that is worth mentioning is, to receive calls on the ObiHai Google Talk must be able to receive calls in your Google voice settings
For a few years used a cheap android phone and google voice for a wifi phone. Worked awsome.. Back in the day of metered minutes and text limits it saved lots of those.. but now with unlimited everything I still have voice installed on my phone still use it.. I have been with it was "grand central" Also have been a magic jack user also.. that what i have tied into my phones in the home now.. forward Gvoice to that number.. this box could save me the very small magic jack yearly fee..
Hi, Loin thanks for the video it looks and sounds very good. I want to use this service with my home phone number my questions are #1 does it have caller ID on the home phone #2 does it have Call waiting for home phone #3 can my home phone record messages. I would be very thankful for an answer
Can you do a video explaining how to send and receive faxes using Google Voice and the Obihai devices? There seem to be a lot of people out there having trouble with this, including me. I am curious in particular about the wired connections between the phone/Obi/Fax devices. Thank you for your thorough and informative videos!
The OBi Setup instructions were created in 2007. As you show in your video, they ask you to use Google Chat within Google Voice. My understanding is that Google Chat has been terminated by Google, replaced by Google Hangouts. My phone can call out, but not receive calls. When my phone rings, and I pick it up, the ringing stops, but I can not talk to the caller. The caller's phone continues to here the ringing, even after I have picked up the OBi landline, so the caller thinks I have not answered. OBi tech support is virtually non-existent. They won't respond to emails, and have no phone contact. They rely on OBi Forums, so the 'helpless' can help the 'helpless'. Does Google Chat still appear on your Google Voice account under 'Phones' ? Do you have to use Google Hangouts? I can find no step by step instructions for Google Voice setup for the OBi, considering that OBiHAI's instructions are 10 years old, and still telling us to use Google Chat. I am thinking that my phones inability to answer incoming calls is due to the lack of Google Chat, or its replacement work around, that acts like a three way call intermediary.
I had no luck at all with ObiHai, in fact it was a PITA from the day I first got it and I sent it back about 28 day's after letting it frustrate me to no end, it is not technology that I want to deal with, I found it almost impossible to use but that's just me, other people seem to have had really good luck with it,.. I envy them !
Can you set a rule in Google Voice so that callers with no callerID, blocked or even with specific callerID to be dropped into a recording like "The number you have reached is no longer in service...", instead of just ringing and eventually going to voice mail. This would be super cool to throw those pesky callers off into thinking you're no longer in service. ;) Thanks in advance.
I had the Obi 100 for years and just upgraded to a obi 220. Beware if you are on FIOS as you may have issues as there are two setting on the router, you need SIP ALG disabled. But can not do it. Called FIOS support and they recommended turning their Actiontec into bridge mode and get a secondary router. I have one on order now.
Just a clarification you can call people through Google Voice on your computer without patching through your cell phone. A little dialogue pops up asking to connect the call through the Hangouts website or call the your phone in which it connects or completes the outbound call. You can call people using Hangouts either on the official website or in the side bar to the left of your Gmail.
I'm really disappointed with hangouts now that it can't send SMS another google-minus--service pulled without little warning. I Use the google-voice-APP only on my phone not hangouts. Hangouts also pirated my contacts list sending inappropriate emails to my friends that my phone number had changed.
I bought an ooma telo and I'm so happy that I was able to cut my phone bill. I pay the $5 taxes a month and the ability to dial 911, because otherwise, it's a $15 yearly charge with obihai.
yeah dude... $15/yr vs $60/yr for ooma.. hows that working out for your wallet.. btw, i have ooma basic and am quite happy with it.. i pay $4.75/mo for them hillbilly taxes...
thanks soo much for this Lon... I think I'll want to get this for my parents... but is there 1:a way to retain your old home number for Google Voice once I cancel their service with their provider? 2: a way to have voicemails just go to the local home phone voicemail machine vs going to google voice?
Timely review for me, Lon as I was just considering one of these. One topic you might have covered is 911. I think that Obi might have a thing with a third party service that provides E-911 for about $15/year. Otherwise though you have no 911 on this setup I think.
correct no 911 service on Google Voice They should be required to imho...but there are several third party companies that you can subscribe to in order to get 911 service...this usually requires a "second" number associated with the Obihai...I use mine in this way. unfortunately there is no real way to test to make sure it is working...unless you have an emergency and have to call 911 :(...which I did once :(
thelastmike Keep an old cell phone charged for 911 calls. All cell phones can call 911 even without a sim card installed in the phone. I have the obi200 at my house with google voice. it doesn't have 911, so I keep my cell phone for 911 calls.
went through this for my small business, 3 lines with an obi 202 and oni 200. Callcentric was the best SP for VoIP I tried, has call hunting, voicemail and fax via email/text. Cant beat it for $9 a month per line.
Wow, This service is wonderful, I had a voice account a long time ago, but ordered the box, so here we go again google , this time sounds like they got it right.
Nothing simple about it, Took a week on the phone talking to my cell carrier and a google voice assistant to get my phone to ring!, It's free but you're going to work for it!!!
I just imagine that when he had Lon Temp override and go through, it was actually someone calling legitimately right before he called it on his mobile. I know it's probably not true. I just laughed at the thought of him picking up, someone on the other side going "Hey, Lon it's...." then Lon hanging up. It's just a funny scenario when you match it up with the video, and he just carries on talking about the Obi200.
I had checked out this device on Amazon and everyone who had this device and also answered questions about this device all said that you still need to subscribe to a separate VOIP service such as basictalk or others. I have had the Google voice on my cell phone now for over a year and so far I have not had one successful phone call through it. All incoming calls do not alert me that I have a call coming in, I just get a missed call alert and no voicemail messages. But then again I do have Hughesnet satellite service on their newest system and perhaps Google is not compatible with satellite internet due to the latency problem. I do hope this fellow who posted this video reads this and can verifty if you still need to have a separate VOIP service to use with Google Voice.
I've used this for years and I love it (much better than oomas scammy services). Well, I should say I've had one set up for years. I got it for the kids to be able to dial 911. I use it to make calls from time to time as well. edit: That land phone you are using is ridiculous. 😀
Just received mine today. Works good. Configured my Google Voice and My Works Voipo account. How does one setup distinctive ring so I know what number is ringing?
We have been using OOMA for years, with free telphone calls. The only problem is we're still stuck paying Gov't access tax.But then again, 5 bucks/month for the tax, sure beats fulltelephone charges. The principle is pretty much as OBI200. If we chose more bells and whistles with OOMA, then the price would come up. But we live a simple life, and simple telephone service. Major setback is when a storm cuts off our power, We then have to use a cell phone to call the power company to report the power outage.
Essentially a MagicJack like device, except using a free VOIP service. For a long time I thought MagicJack was the absolute neatest shit, but this device is awesome.
I have the OBI200. The only issue I have is that I can't get the call screening to work. From some of the forums I intuit that its because Google Chat (which the OBI uses) doesn't support call screening. If you know any way around this, please let me know.
I can confirm that it does work overseas. I have an ObiHai Obi100 and it works in Japan. However, most of the time it doesn't ring my phone when I get a call. However, I can make calls no problem. I simply just use an app on my iPhone which lets me know someone called, and then I just call them back on my ObiHai device.
Excellent review Lon. Question. With this device can I have two google voice numbers? Right now I have only one and we have a magic jack. I want to port the magic jack number to another google voice account(my wife's). My goal is to have people call our two google voice numbers through this new google OBI device. Thanks.
Installed Obi about 10 days ago. Still getting scam calls. Not as many....actually had 23 in one day before getting fed up. This does help but there's a way to go before it's totally effective.
Great job on this video (as well as the e911) This oBi200 have a USB port that you can connect a USB storage device to it. Be great if you can do a video on that. Thx Lon.
This device is no longer an option at the end of October 2024. It was great while it lasted! Any thoughts on a viable alternative? I haven't been able to find anything else that didn't have a monthly charge of some sort, usually $5 and up. Though not a lot of money, hard to justify given that all household members have cell phones.
If your house has phone wiring installed previously for a landline, you can disconnect the Telephone company's wiring from the TNI and connect the Obi200 to the house phone wiring. A wifi dongle will not connect a phone to your Obi200; wifi and cordless phones use completely different protocols.
From what I gather many folks have success with faxing on the platform. Here's a thread on Obihai's forums that might be of help: www.obitalk.com/forum/index.php?topic=8691.0
I know it's been 5 years since this video was put out, but what would be your current recommendation for getting this setup now at the tail end of 2022?
I just saw this. I wish I had seen it sooner. One thing I don't understand, how does this box connect to Google Voice as a separate phone? In Google Voice, you associate different phone numbers, and have Google ring them, or not ring them, forward calls, messages, etc. The Obihai doesn't have it's own phone number, does it? Or does it? If it does, what is the phone number? How do tell Google Voice to ring the Obihai phone, but not the cell phone, or vice versa? If you make a call from the desktop, and have it ring a phone to connect a call (the video calls this an extra step, but I like to do it, to save dialing), can you tell it to connect the call through the Obihai phone?
It sets itself up as a Google Voice client. So when somebody dials the number Google Voice rings it through its Internet connection. Your other phones can be set to continue ringing as well.
Thanks for the reply. I'm not sure I get it, but it behaves like a separate phone in Voice settings? I can set it to ring or not ring independently, like I can with the other phones associated with Google Voice?
Does this box allow people to use google voice without being connected to the internet? And I believe Google voice is no longer a free service, or am I wrong about that?
Is there a device that will act as answering machine (for ex: collected with phones via headphone jack, receive call and play pre-recorded audio and record caller)?
So let me ask, I can use it only to call cell phones or internet users with the same Google device or Google Voice users. Can I call a regular telephone landline?
I know that google officially only gives out this service to US & Canadians. But is there a get around for someone outside those regions? I really needed this service but it's not in my country
Love everything about it, except that the display only shows the inbound phone number on my analog Panasonic phone's display. It shows "Out of Area" on every call rather than the caller's name, local or not.
I'd pay more than what I already do on the regular landline if only I could get Google Voice... unfortunately, tough luck for brazilians. And I don't think Google is ever bringing Voice here... monopolies, lobbying and such. Unfortunately, we're still trapped with high prices for the same old service with little to no options, most of which you end up having to pay even more for the decades old service. I'd like to see if there's any compatible voip service with different payment scheme... it's just a huge waste of money. I have to keep a landline both because lots of places still asks for a home phone, and because I need an alternative number using another system because mobile service is just kinda unreliable.
would be great if you had included a review of the actual call quality. cuz its all great if its totally free outside the cost of obi, but even if you only get a half dozen calls a month its not worth a damn if youre constantly talking over yourself because of echo, or it takes 10 seconds to hear someone on the other end saying hello.
I am a senior and i am getting calls i don't want and they won't quit.you make my head spin i am not good on this kind of subject, i also need this with covid i cant afford my phone bill!!!!! thanks
Do you have a 2020 update video for this? I bought a Polycom OBI202 for 2 lines. I am hoping to just use my google number without any other service. Can't seem to get it to work
I know this is old but this is relative to this subject. I bought the 2 line one, have not gotten it working yet due to the LAN/INTERNET are not pass through or work like an unmanaged switch. I have to get a 4 port hub or switch to get this operating. So you need a free ethernet port.
i have magic jack pluss with google voice inbound but it expired should i stick with magicjack and pay 100 for 5 years or buy thes box is there a fee to use it i guess thats my ?
My home phone as been cut since I don't want to pay. But how do I register the Obitalk to Google voice? It doesn't have a 'phone number' when google asks for it to register a new number. Google voice do detect the device in the 'transfer' tab, but not as one that can receive calls or messages.
I can say that people have gotten mixed results with MagicJack which is what I have, so if you need fax give a MagicJack Go a shot, it's $30 a year or $99 for 5 years, plus the yearly fee your local 911 collects, and you can even import an old land line #. Also to note there are some videos on TH-cam of people getting MagicJack to work with Fax so again do look into that, and they have an iOS, and Android app as well.
How do you Deactivate Google voicemail, every time I ring home, if my wife does not pick up in the next 20 seconds, it will take her straight to voicemail, how to turn off voice mail, or at the very least, how to allow the phone to ring for a longer period of time before it goes to voicemail???
I just wanted to come back and say thanks for this video. I set up the ObiHai per your instructions and ported over my landline around a year ago. I have saved close to $600 so far. Thanks again!!
I have the same one. It's amazing. Not a single spam/telemarketer for years.
Google Voicemail to text/email is a lifesaver for my cell phone. No longer have to deal with their terrible/slow over the phone voicemail system.
I prefer the legacy interface for google voice
Been using google voice for like 5 years now. It is awesome.
Yup. since 2/2/2011.
so phone power just tricked me into paying for something I can get for free.. nice
j k can it automatic calls people for you
I've been using this same setup for a few months, and it works great! Previously we had Magic Jack ($35 yr), but decided to go the completely free route. You can pay for services such as 911, but we just use this as a teen line, so choose not to. Anyone still paying for a landline should really consider this. You can use your own Gmail address, or as we did create a new one just for this phone, so we don't get bothered with voicemail messages to our cell phone (alternatively, you could just turn off notifications).
So glad you reviewed this and explained Google Voice. This is a fantastic solution for me.
I got this a week ago. It was without doubt the easiest device I've ever setup (3 minutes), works flawlessly with my GV number. I am getting spam calls now but it works great.
You mention that to make Google Voice call from your cell that a two step process is required. On Android, that's not true. Simply install the Google Voice app, and a new calling option is then available in the native dialer to use Google Voice for all calls or international calls only. It does not use VoIP for the call but instead dials Google's US based numbers that work in conjunction with caller ID to identify your call, which is then routed out of Google's outbound lines with your GV number as the outbound called ID. I've been using that feature for years specifically for all my international dialing. Glad to see Google have opened up SIP integration. It was there back when Google first launched the service, post Grand Central aquisition, but it quickly went away. I'm interested to know if the SIP URI for Google is documented publicly anywhere.
jjwatmyself about two years ago, I switched to Android from iPhone, but even back then, I used the Hangouts app on iOS and it let my iPhone behave as if it had two phone numbers. I could dial out with Hangouts, receive calls. I've never heard of this two step thing before? of course, it still operates that way on my Android phone, is it not that way anymore on iOS? weird.
Yeah, I didn't understand that part either. Maybe he has his account set up differently. I've always been able to make calls from the Voice/Hangouts apps on iOS directly.
Brad Melendy on Android you have two choices... VoIP via the handouts dialer app and cellular voice dialing via the native Android dialer (like a very slick calling card). I use the latter as has bare minimum dependency on data.
Yes that's true, one option will patch/handoff your calls using your cellular minutes (nowdays it's unlimited anyway) which is the "old" method, but now you can also set it to use pure VoIP switching with no call patching/handoff.
From what I understand, is that you would install the regular Hangouts app, then also install the Hangouts "Dialer" app which you only have to run once (probably installs itself as a background service/activity) and you're all set using the regular Hangouts app and the phone's native dialer. I prefer the later, since I have plenty of bandwidth and virtually no delay for patching/handoff. Old timers can probably appreciate this new "old" tech, after all it's a cool toy to have.
Question: Can you set a rule in Google Voice so that callers with no callerID, blocked or even with specific callerID to be dropped into a recording like "The number you have reached is no longer in service...", instead of just ringing and eventually going to voice mail. This would be super cool to throw those pesky callers off into thinking you're no longer in service. ;) Thanks in advance.
jjwatmyself 3
Have it for years . Great Service. Like $7 dollars a month.
Thanks... This worked for me between watching your video and that of another who touts Google Voice as well. It was not very easy and not a quick process (7 Days) but I did follow your steps and they worked. Longest part was porting the landline to a tracfone and then to Google. Now I only pay for internet. Cut Cable TV and the Phone. Bill went from $215 to $74.
Another good video Lon, but one thing that is worth mentioning is, to receive calls on the ObiHai Google Talk must be able to receive calls in your Google voice settings
For a few years used a cheap android phone and google voice for a wifi phone. Worked awsome.. Back in the day of metered minutes and text limits it saved lots of those.. but now with unlimited everything I still have voice installed on my phone still use it.. I have been with it was "grand central" Also have been a magic jack user also.. that what i have tied into my phones in the home now.. forward Gvoice to that number.. this box could save me the very small magic jack yearly fee..
Hi, Loin thanks for the video it looks and sounds very good. I want to use this service with my home phone number my questions are #1 does it have caller ID on the home phone #2 does it have Call waiting for home phone #3 can my home phone record messages. I would be very thankful for an answer
Can you do a video explaining how to send and receive faxes using Google Voice and the Obihai devices? There seem to be a lot of people out there having trouble with this, including me. I am curious in particular about the wired connections between the phone/Obi/Fax devices. Thank you for your thorough and informative videos!
The OBi Setup instructions were created in 2007. As you show in your video, they ask you to use Google Chat within Google Voice. My understanding is that Google Chat has been terminated by Google, replaced by Google Hangouts.
My phone can call out, but not receive calls. When my phone rings, and I pick it up, the ringing stops, but I can not talk to the caller. The caller's phone continues to here the ringing, even after I have picked up the OBi landline, so the caller thinks I have not answered.
OBi tech support is virtually non-existent. They won't respond to emails, and have no phone contact. They rely on OBi Forums, so the 'helpless' can help the 'helpless'.
Does Google Chat still appear on your Google Voice account under 'Phones' ?
Do you have to use Google Hangouts?
I can find no step by step instructions for Google Voice setup for the OBi, considering that OBiHAI's instructions are 10 years old, and still telling us to use Google Chat. I am thinking that my phones inability to answer incoming calls is due to the lack of Google Chat, or its replacement work around, that acts like a three way call intermediary.
Which Obi are you using ? The old one (100 series) is no longer supported
I had no luck at all with ObiHai, in fact it was a PITA from the day I first got it and I sent it back about 28 day's after letting it frustrate me to no end, it is not technology that I want to deal with, I found it almost impossible to use but that's just me, other people seem to have had really good luck with it,.. I envy them !
Can you set a rule in Google Voice so that callers with no callerID, blocked or even with specific callerID to be dropped into a recording like "The number you have reached is no longer in service...", instead of just ringing and eventually going to voice mail.
This would be super cool to throw those pesky callers off into thinking you're no longer in service. ;) Thanks in advance.
I had the Obi 100 for years and just upgraded to a obi 220. Beware if you are on FIOS as you may have issues as there are two setting on the router, you need SIP ALG disabled. But can not do it. Called FIOS support and they recommended turning their
Actiontec into bridge mode and get a secondary router. I have one on order now.
Just a clarification you can call people through Google Voice on your computer without patching through your cell phone. A little dialogue pops up asking to connect the call through the Hangouts website or call the your phone in which it connects or completes the outbound call. You can call people using Hangouts either on the official website or in the side bar to the left of your Gmail.
I'm really disappointed with hangouts now that it can't send SMS another google-minus--service pulled without little warning. I Use the google-voice-APP only on my phone not hangouts. Hangouts also pirated my contacts list sending inappropriate emails to my friends that my phone number had changed.
Dude! What are you doing with my childhood on your back wall?! You even have the TommyTronic 3D!!!!!
I bought an ooma telo and I'm so happy that I was able to cut my phone bill. I pay the $5 taxes a month and the ability to dial 911, because otherwise, it's a $15 yearly charge with obihai.
yeah dude... $15/yr vs $60/yr for ooma.. hows that working out for your wallet.. btw, i have ooma basic and am quite happy with it.. i pay $4.75/mo for them hillbilly taxes...
thanks soo much for this Lon... I think I'll want to get this for my parents... but is there
1:a way to retain your old home number for Google Voice once I cancel their service with their provider?
2: a way to have voicemails just go to the local home phone voicemail machine vs going to google voice?
Timely review for me, Lon as I was just considering one of these.
One topic you might have covered is 911. I think that Obi might have a thing with a third party service that provides E-911 for about $15/year. Otherwise though you have no 911 on this setup I think.
correct no 911 service on Google Voice They should be required to imho...but there are several third party companies that you can subscribe to in order to get 911 service...this usually requires a "second" number associated with the Obihai...I use mine in this way. unfortunately there is no real way to test to make sure it is working...unless you have an emergency and have to call 911 :(...which I did once :(
thelastmike Keep an old cell phone charged for 911 calls. All cell phones can call 911 even without a sim card installed in the phone. I have the obi200 at my house with google voice. it doesn't have 911, so I keep my cell phone for 911 calls.
went through this for my small business, 3 lines with an obi 202 and oni 200. Callcentric was the best SP for VoIP I tried, has call hunting, voicemail and fax via email/text. Cant beat it for $9 a month per line.
Wow, This service is wonderful, I had a voice account a long time ago, but ordered the box, so here we go again google , this time sounds like they got it right.
Nothing simple about it, Took a week on the phone talking to my cell carrier and a google voice assistant to get my phone to ring!, It's free but you're going to work for it!!!
for international who dont have google voice what are the Alternatives...?? thanks..
I just imagine that when he had Lon Temp override and go through, it was actually someone calling legitimately right before he called it on his mobile. I know it's probably not true.
I just laughed at the thought of him picking up, someone on the other side going "Hey, Lon it's...." then Lon hanging up.
It's just a funny scenario when you match it up with the video, and he just carries on talking about the Obi200.
Can you plug it into a phone jack and get all phones in the house on it?
For people who don’t have internet, is there a cellular version?
I had checked out this device on Amazon and everyone who had this device and also answered questions about this device all said that you still need to subscribe to a separate VOIP service such as basictalk or others. I have had the Google voice on my cell phone now for over a year and so far I have not had one successful phone call through it. All incoming calls do not alert me that I have a call coming in, I just get a missed call alert and no voicemail messages. But then again I do have Hughesnet satellite service on their newest system and perhaps Google is not compatible with satellite internet due to the latency problem. I do hope this fellow who posted this video reads this and can verifty if you still need to have a separate VOIP service to use with Google Voice.
I've used this for years and I love it (much better than oomas scammy services). Well, I should say I've had one set up for years. I got it for the kids to be able to dial 911. I use it to make calls from time to time as well.
edit: That land phone you are using is ridiculous. 😀
ha ! I figured I'd test it with the oldest phone in the arsenal. That one was my 15th birthday present from 1991 when I got my very own phone line :)
I like your background so I sub.
Nice OBi review thanks for sharing
Just received mine today. Works good. Configured my Google Voice and My Works Voipo account. How does one setup distinctive ring so I know what number is ringing?
We have been using OOMA for years, with free telphone calls. The only problem is we're still stuck paying Gov't access tax.But then again, 5 bucks/month for the tax, sure beats fulltelephone charges.
The principle is pretty much as OBI200. If we chose more bells and whistles with OOMA, then the price would come up. But we live a simple life, and simple telephone service. Major setback is when a storm cuts off our power, We then have to use a cell phone to call the power company to report the power outage.
Essentially a MagicJack like device, except using a free VOIP service. For a long time I thought MagicJack was the absolute neatest shit, but this device is awesome.
Very informative. Any updates planned?
I have the OBI200. The only issue I have is that I can't get the call screening to work. From some of the forums I intuit that its because Google Chat (which the OBI uses) doesn't support call screening. If you know any way around this, please let me know.
This is the kind of thing Windows should be doing with Skype!
I can confirm that it does work overseas. I have an ObiHai Obi100 and it works in Japan. However, most of the time it doesn't ring my phone when I get a call. However, I can make calls no problem. I simply just use an app on my iPhone which lets me know someone called, and then I just call them back on my ObiHai device.
Great video. I got the Obi202 this year and hooked it up to my house and cut off the phone completely. I registered with Anveo for e911.
Can I take overseas be to a retirement home ones it is confirmation done here in the US?
Excellent review Lon. Question. With this device can I have two google voice numbers? Right now I have only one and we have a magic jack. I want to port the magic jack number to another google voice account(my wife's). My goal is to have people call our two google voice numbers through this new google OBI device. Thanks.
You forgot the $10 support fee Obihai wants for firmware updates ...
Installed Obi about 10 days ago. Still getting scam calls. Not as many....actually had 23 in one day before getting fed up. This does help but there's a way to go before it's totally effective.
how does Obi200 compare to Ooma for home phone alternative
Since this runs through your cell phone, are cell phone minutes used any time someone uses your Google Voice number to call you?
Great job on this video (as well as the e911) This oBi200 have a USB port that you can connect a USB storage device to it. Be great if you can do a video on that. Thx Lon.
What speak type of microphone are you using? Just curious, your video is very clear. Thanks
Can I use my home answering machine instead of voicemail?
Yes if your answering machine answers first
This device is no longer an option at the end of October 2024. It was great while it lasted! Any thoughts on a viable alternative? I haven't been able to find anything else that didn't have a monthly charge of some sort, usually $5 and up. Though not a lot of money, hard to justify given that all household members have cell phones.
Check out Ooma - I think it's free with the hardware purchase: amzn.to/47OAYeM - I need to take a look at it!
Fascinated by the small 1980's-1990's museum in the background.
How do you connect ObiHai Obi200 if phone is not in same room as router? Can I use a wifi dongle?
If your house has phone wiring installed previously for a landline, you can disconnect the Telephone company's wiring from the TNI and connect the Obi200 to the house phone wiring. A wifi dongle will not connect a phone to your Obi200; wifi and cordless phones use completely different protocols.
You could also set up power line networking modules. They work amazingly well.
Hello Lon. Is It true that with Google Voice that you can't port a landline number to Google Voice but to a mobile phone or no.
Great video! I have a fax machine that I need to use occasionally. Will faxes work with Google voice?
From what I gather many folks have success with faxing on the platform. Here's a thread on Obihai's forums that might be of help: www.obitalk.com/forum/index.php?topic=8691.0
I know it's been 5 years since this video was put out, but what would be your current recommendation for getting this setup now at the tail end of 2022?
You said you would mention overseas options? Im in Australia..
How do you use the fax machine option ?
I just saw this. I wish I had seen it sooner. One thing I don't understand, how does this box connect to Google Voice as a separate phone? In Google Voice, you associate different phone numbers, and have Google ring them, or not ring them, forward calls, messages, etc. The Obihai doesn't have it's own phone number, does it? Or does it? If it does, what is the phone number? How do tell Google Voice to ring the Obihai phone, but not the cell phone, or vice versa? If you make a call from the desktop, and have it ring a phone to connect a call (the video calls this an extra step, but I like to do it, to save dialing), can you tell it to connect the call through the Obihai phone?
It sets itself up as a Google Voice client. So when somebody dials the number Google Voice rings it through its Internet connection. Your other phones can be set to continue ringing as well.
Thanks for the reply. I'm not sure I get it, but it behaves like a separate phone in Voice settings? I can set it to ring or not ring independently, like I can with the other phones associated with Google Voice?
Does this box allow people to use google voice without being
connected to the internet? And I believe Google voice is no longer a free
service, or am I wrong about that?
Is there an ObiHai device that will accept 3 or 4 separate phone (numbers) lines so it can be used with an existing Merlin phone system?
Have a look at their 1062 model.
Thanks
Is there a device that will act as answering machine (for ex: collected with phones via headphone jack, receive call and play pre-recorded audio and record caller)?
So let me ask, I can use it only to call cell phones or internet users with the same Google device or Google Voice users. Can I call a regular telephone landline?
Thanks for the video, love the computers in the background, use to have them myself!
Hi What part is free?
how long before obihai disables this product like they did with the obi100 and obi110 box?
Everybody in the US. Please note the label on the device. It says "No Emergency Calls".
Is it mandatory to use google voice?? Why can't I just put my cell sim card in and make calls with my existing cell number using a landline phone?
I know that google officially only gives out this service to US & Canadians. But is there a get around for someone outside those regions? I really needed this service but it's not in my country
Love everything about it, except that the display only shows the inbound phone number on my analog Panasonic phone's display. It shows "Out of Area" on every call rather than the caller's name, local or not.
How does it compare to Invoxia's Voice Bridge?
Lon what about porting?
I'd pay more than what I already do on the regular landline if only I could get Google Voice... unfortunately, tough luck for brazilians. And I don't think Google is ever bringing Voice here... monopolies, lobbying and such. Unfortunately, we're still trapped with high prices for the same old service with little to no options, most of which you end up having to pay even more for the decades old service.
I'd like to see if there's any compatible voip service with different payment scheme... it's just a huge waste of money. I have to keep a landline both because lots of places still asks for a home phone, and because I need an alternative number using another system because mobile service is just kinda unreliable.
I've cancelled my old number, how do I get a new phone no?
Does the Obi-Hai Obi200 with Google Voice work with security systems?
No I think those still require a traditional phone line.
Will this work If I connect the google voice box to the land line, and use the Ethernet cable to use it with Polycom???
would be great if you had included a review of the actual call quality. cuz its all great if its totally free outside the cost of obi, but even if you only get a half dozen calls a month its not worth a damn if youre constantly talking over yourself because of echo, or it takes 10 seconds to hear someone on the other end saying hello.
My home phone number was assigned by magic jack. If i get this device how can I transfer my number?
Excellent video an excellent tutorial. My question is can I port my existing "land line" into the Obi200 Device?
call forwarding only works to your mobile or skype-phone.
I am a senior and i am getting calls i don't want and they won't quit.you make my head spin i am not good on this kind of subject, i also need this with covid i cant afford my phone bill!!!!! thanks
I had a land line with obihai and suddenly I can't make or get calls
Come on Lon, you can trust us!!
You no longer need a cell phone or landline phone to set-up this device.
Do you have a 2020 update video for this? I bought a Polycom OBI202 for 2 lines. I am hoping to just use my google number without any other service. Can't seem to get it to work
Can you use Cisco 7960 phone with this ?
I know this is old but this is relative to this subject. I bought the 2 line one, have not gotten it working yet due to the LAN/INTERNET are not pass through or work like an unmanaged switch. I have to get a 4 port hub or switch to get this operating. So you need a free ethernet port.
i have magic jack pluss with google voice inbound but it expired should i stick with magicjack and pay 100 for 5 years or buy thes box is there a fee to use it i guess thats my ?
I found obihai's documentation on the device very lacking. This wouldn't be much of a problem if their configuration UI wasn't so confusing.
How much is it &where to you buy it,?
Ebay/amazon. They are EOL, and it's unclear when google voice will pull the plug entirely. Device still good for using with other sip ITSP's.
I did set up one yesterday
My home phone as been cut since I don't want to pay. But how do I register the Obitalk to Google voice? It doesn't have a 'phone number' when google asks for it to register a new number. Google voice do detect the device in the 'transfer' tab, but not as one that can receive calls or messages.
By getting the obi do think Google is recording your phone calls? And how much is the obi box? Thanks.
With the obi box, if I use it as a land line, can People call me like a normal landline or wud they need obi as well?
does this still work in 2019? can i still set up google voice and use the Obi200 as stop my current landline service?
Yes.
The only internet service that we have is the Data plan on our cell phones. Can I get ObiHai OBI200 to work?
No you need cable or satellite internet where you can plug the obi into the router
I have a question can you use a fax machine with this device?
Rich Worthington no
You can if the VOIP service supports it. I am not sure about Google Voice but there are others that will work.
Do you have a way to test it with google voice?
I can say that people have gotten mixed results with MagicJack which is what I have, so if you need fax give a MagicJack Go a shot, it's $30 a year or $99 for 5 years, plus the yearly fee your local 911 collects, and you can even import an old land line #. Also to note there are some videos on TH-cam of people getting MagicJack to work with Fax so again do look into that, and they have an iOS, and Android app as well.
I don't see the groups and circles option in the new interface. Am I missing something?
You have to use the legacy interface for that.
thanks for the fast reply! I'm watching the video now. I didn't realize the filtering options were there. I hope they aren't getting rid of them.
My landline is for my fax only. Can i use the Obi200 for incoming and outgoing fax's??
Can you do something with Google Voice & SIP. Maybe the Unifi VOIP phone?
How do you connect the box to get the phone service through the whole house?
You can do a punch down panel to wire this throughout your home.
How do you Deactivate Google voicemail, every time I ring home, if my wife does not pick up in the next 20 seconds, it will take her straight to voicemail, how to turn off voice mail, or at the very least, how to allow the phone to ring for a longer period of time before it goes to voicemail???