CuPhone’s RJ11 Phone Adapter — Dual plugs into your computer’s USB port, and lets you plug in a regular phone, which you can then use to make either landline calls or communicate via Skype, the multiplatform Voice over IP (VoIP) service. The US$39 adapter works with Macs, Windows and Linux computers.
The device works with any standard landline phone, corded or cordless. It plugs into an available USB port on your Mac or PC, and works independently of country location. It supports Skype caller ID, Skype speed dialing and also employs echo-cancellation technology. No changes in network configuration, firewall or router settings is necessary to get the adapter to work, according to CuPhone, and it operates without an external power supply.
Skype — available for free download — allows users to instant message and voice message each other over the Internet for free. For additional charges, users can have a phone number assigned to them, and use the service in lieu of a conventional landline. Users can also pay to make outbound calls to landline or cell phones anywhere in the world. System requirements for Skype call for a G3 or better, Mac OS X v10.3 or later, 128MB RAM, 20MB hard disk space, microphone and Internet connection.
CuPhone’s Web site had not been updated with details about the new device as MacCentral posted this article.