What is Gizmo5?
Gizmo5 is a VoIP (Voice over IP) software that allows users to make voice and video calls over the internet instead of traditional phone networks. It was launched in 2004 and acquired by Google in 2009, although Google discontinued it in 2011.
Some key features of Gizmo5 include:
- Free computer-to-computer voice and video calls
- SMS messaging capabilities
- Call recording option
- Voicemail features
- Call forwarding and call waiting
- Audio and video conferencing
- Screen sharing
- Instant messaging using XMPP protocol
- Integration with popular IM networks
- Low-cost calls to traditional phone networks
- Mobile apps available for Android and iOS
Gizmo5 uses SIP protocol for communication and requires users to create a Gizmo account. It provides NAT traversal capabilities to establish connections behind firewalls or routers. The audio/video quality is dependent on the internet speeds of both parties in a call.
Overall, Gizmo5 provided a good alternative for free VOIP calls and communication. Since it is now discontinued, similar software options include Skype, WhatsApp, Signal, Jitsi Meet etc.