Skype and other VoIP services are nice and cheap, but you're usually stuck using a headphone attached to your PC or specialized phone. Start-up MagicJack simplifies your VoIP life with a matchbox-sized USB modem into which you plug any old POTS (plain old phone service) phone — anything from a prissy princess phone to the most sophisticated multi-handset DECT cordless system.

For $40, you get the tiny modem and a year's worth of VoIP service (subsequent years are $20) — MagicJack is also a VoIP supplier. Just plug the Magic into your PC's USB port, and the large, easy-to-understand dialpad pops up on your screen in a few seconds, ready for dialing. It's not in stores until late October at the earliest, but you can buy it online at MagicJack's website. A Mac version is also on the way.

People calling you might have issues, however. MagicJack's site is a little hazy on when you can get your own phone number — it's either now or by Christmas. And unfortunately, international calls require the purchase of separate prepaid minutes. Isn't it all just bits, people? — Stewart Wolpin