Sunset on SunRocket as VOIP firm hangs up
With little warning, SunRocket-- one of the leading Voice-over-IP providers-- has closed up shop. On July 12, an anonymous poster on Broadbandreports.com forum leaked the news, "SunRocket Days are OVER!" Initially met with skepticism, the leak was confirmed earlier today in the New York Times. All the employees have been let go, apparently including the Webmaster, as the SunRocket site is still up as if nothing was the matter.
Founded in 2004, SunRocket billed itself as the "no gotcha" phone company, offering a $199 annual unlimited calling plan. In April, it had announced hitting 200,000 subscriber. Now those same customers are being courted by rivals Vonage, Lingo and other carriers. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Packet8-- a VoIP service I had formerly used-- has put in a bid for former SunRocket users, possibly to acquire them as part of the liquidation.
Here's a summary of the better offers:
- Vonage: Two months free, with Residential Premium Unlimited Plan (24.99) - must call special 800-number; no word about activation costs.
- Lingo: Free equipment, shipping, activation, one month free (all credited after 90-days). Monthly plan $21.95; Annual plan: $195
- Packet8: No Startup Costs, activation, equipment (BPG510 Adapter), shipping included. First month of service free for Freedom Unlimited ($24.99/month) and Freedom Global ($49.99) plans. Annual plan: $199
Russell Shaw of ZDnet posits this will be a boon for broadband ISPs and traditional carriers, such as Comcast, Verizon and AT&T.
