Skip to main content

Google Buys Gizmo5 to Bolster VoIP Offerings

Gizmo5 Logo
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Internet giant Google has announced it has acquired San Diego-based VoIP startup Gizmo5 for an undisclosed amount. Google says it plans to integrated Gizmo5 into its Google Voice team to beef up Google Voice’s VoIP offerings…and help make Google Voice a more serious competitor to Skype.

In unveiling the acquisition, Google Voice product managers Wesley Chan and Craig Walker did not reveal any specific features or capabilities they plan to pick up from Gizmo5, but from a technical perspective the acquisition seemed aimed at converting Google Voice into a fully-fledged VoIP service. Right now Google Voice acts as a central hub for its users’ multiple phone numbers, enabling them to be reached via a single number and take advantage of features like voicemail and speech-to-text message transcription. In addition, Google offers Google Talk, which enables users to make computer-to-computer voice and video calls. The addition of technology from Gizmo5 could convert either (or both services) into a genuine VoIP offering that connects to traditional landline and wireless numbers.

Existing Gizmo5 users will be able to continue using their service, although the companies are no longer accepting new signups for Gizmo5, and existing users won’t be able to sign up for a call-in number anymore.

Google will have to be careful, however: Google Voice is already being examined by the FCC for blocking calls to certain rural areas.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Geoff Duncan
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…
The 5 best Wi-Fi adapters for PC in 2024
The Ugreen AC1300 Wi-Fi adapter in a desktop PC.

Whether you're designing it yourself or getting a pre-built PC, it can be easy to get a computer and realize that it doesn't have a native Wi-Fi adapter. Or, maybe it does, but you're internet speeds are getting faster, game downloads are getting bigger, you've already upgraded your router and need an adapter to match your newfound power requirements. No matter the situation, an external Wi-Fi adapter that you can add to your PC setup or even laptop setup will be worth your time. Here, we investigate the best Wi-Fi adapters for PC use. Most are incredibly affordable and just snap into a free USB port and start working.
The best Wi-Fi adapter for PC in 2024

Buy the

Read more
How to pin a website to the taskbar in Windows
A man sits, using a laptop running the Windows 11 operating system.

Windows includes many interesting tools, but if you’re like many people, more and more of your digital life is happening in your web browser and nowhere else. That being the case, you’ll want to keep your most important websites close at hand. The easiest way to access them in Windows is the Start menu and the taskbar, treating them more or less like programs in and of themselves.

Although easy overall, getting a website from your browser to your taskbar is slightly different depending on which browser you’re using.

Read more
This LG 34-inch QHD gaming monitor is discounted from $1,000 to $529
The LG UltraGear monitor on a table.

If you want a top-tier display to go with your gaming PC, check out the 34-inch LG UltraGear QHD curved gaming monitor. Not only will it be a worthy screen for your powerful gaming desktop, but it's also currently on sale from Walmart with a $471 discount that nearly halves its price to just $529 from $1,000. We're not sure how much time is remaining before this offer expires, but like most monitor deals of this caliber, it will probably end sooner than you think. Buy it now if you don't want to miss out.

Why you should buy the 34-inch LG UltraGear QHD curved gaming monitor
Gamers who are playing the best PC games should have a screen that will let you appreciate modern graphics. That's certainly the case with the 34-inch LG UltraGear QHD curved gaming monitor, as its quad HD resolution promises sharp details and lifelike colors, while its curved screen fills your peripheral vision for more immersive gameplay. The gaming monitor also features a 144Hz refresh rate, which is at the top of our computer monitor buying guide's recommended range, and 1ms response time. With these specifications, you'll enjoy smooth movements and quick reaction times, which are extremely important in multiplayer matches.

Read more