What is a softphone and how will it transform my business communications?

What is a softphone?

A softphone is a kind of software that makes and receives phone calls over the internet. Instead of having a fixed-line desk phone, softphones use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, making it easy and convenient for businesses to make calls on computers and smartphones.

So what is a softphone, and how does softphone software compare to traditional desk phones? Let's explore some of the benefits that softphones offer your business.

Softphones are flexible

Nobody likes being tied to a desk, especially not if you're working as part of a remote team. With softphones, however, you can log in anytime, anywhere in the world from most devices. Simple!

Most providers offer a softphone app that you can install on your smartphone, meaning round-the-clock connectivity. If you're a flexible business working with employees and contractors, this does away with bringing your team into a physical office.

Softphones are cheaper

As a business owner, finding money-saving alternatives can be a huge relief. Using softphones for business instead of the traditional landlines can save you money. There's no need to buy a dedicated line and hire costly engineers to install everything. With a softphone, all you need is a computer with internet and a headset!

Unlock powerful softphone-only features

By now, you know that softphones can do everything a desk phone can do, but there's far more to softphone software than making and receiving calls.

If you're still not convinced whether there's a significant enough difference between desk phones vs. softphones to make the switch, here are some powerful features that softphones offer:

  • Conference calling with your team and customers
  • Switching between voice and video calling with a single click
  • Built-in call recording
  • Sending and receiving SMS messages
  • Transcribing voicemail messages automatically

Softphones are customizable and easy to use

A frustrated team is never good for morale or productivity. That's why softphones make such a great choice for your business over desk phones, as they're easy to set up and use.

Sharing contacts is a breeze because your team won't have to rely on external documents to find the number they need. If some of your team members are out on the road and need to make calls using their smartphone, their personal number remains completely separate from the business number using the same device. For productivity, team members can set when they're available or away, routing calls and organizing meetings with less stress.

Don't need certain features? Simply disable the ones you don't need.

They're scalable

With desk phones, if your business grows or moves premises, it's a big deal to update your telephone number and uninstall and relocate hardware.

Softphones allow your communications to be easily scalable; the software is automatically updated with features added or removed in a few clicks.

If your team grows, all it takes is a few adjustments to your account to add them into your network.

Forget complicated and archaic fixed lines that restrict your business growth and communication. Softphones give you flexibility and room to expand your communication channels.

If you're ready to add softphones for business use and harness its easy and flexible features, consider switching from desk phones, and explore the services 8x8 offers today.