Gizmo gets Flashed, makes calls from the browser

Although I've been a heavy Skype user for over two years, I still keep an eye on Gizmo. Apparently, so does Om Malik because he's reporting that Gizmo just went sans client. Once the service launches, you'll be able to get a small browser plug-in from Gizmocall.com so you too can be VoIP'ing right through your web browser via Flash support. Moving away from an installed client application definitely opens up the door to more potential adoption of the service; something I think Skype might want to consider.

I'm sure we've got both Skyper's and Gizmo gabbers out there: is a web-based VoIP app appealing to your gift of gab? I've stuck with Skype mainly due to the mobile client; since some mobile browsers don't support Flash, I think I'll keep my VoIP needs with Skype...for now.

Comments

[Mickey Segal]

Skype seems to be stumbling with poor call quality and horrendous customer service (see http://forum.skype.com/index.php?s=624405e72da98c76537fd3977c726571&showtopic=70798&st=0 for an example of how the infamous 9410 Skype error can knock you off Skype Out calls for months without any workaround other than reformatting your hard drive).

There is a real opportunity for other entrants to the market.

[Ben L.]

Jajah anyone? Yes, it's not what you are used to headset and all, but hey isn't that what your phone is for anyway?

[alan]

SIP's stated plans to make this an in-context advertising-funded service could end up driving you nuts. Every time you call a colleague at work, it's going to offer to connect you to one of your company's competitors instead! See:
http://idiots.blogspot.com/2007/02/gizmocall-takes-voip-startup-on-wild.html

[sudipta]

No Linux support yet. They say:

"Gizmo Call does not yet work on Linux computers. We like Linux and we use Linux and we're going to make Gizmo Call work for Linux. Adobe just recently released Flash 9 for Linux which Gizmo Call requires which is why we have been delayed in releasing Linux support for Gizmo Call.

http://www.nocostconference.com/