Softphone

What Is a Softphone App?: Basics and Top Features

A softphone app is software that functions as a business desk phone but can be downloaded to any Internet-capable device—PCs, mobile phones, and tablets. This digital transformation of traditional telephony brings a multitude of benefits that surpass traditional desk phones.

Unlike desk phones, which require physical hardware and complex wiring setups, a softphone is purely software that mimics the functionality of a business desk phone. It can be used on any device connected to the Internet, providing flexibility and convenience. The interface and functionalities of a softphone are identical to those of a real phone, offering users a familiar experience.

The core technology behind a softphone is Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Unlike traditional international phone calls that transmit voice as analog signals through copper cables, VoIP converts voice into digital signals, compresses them into data packets, and sends them over the Internet. At the receiving end, the gateway decompresses the data packets back into voice, allowing seamless communication.

Softphones support various calling modes, including PC to PC, PC to phone, and phone to PC, enabling unrestricted communication within the same network. This technology not only enhances communication efficiency but also significantly reduces call costs by utilizing available network resources rather than dedicated lines.

Moreover, softphones are not limited to voice calls. Many softphone apps, such as SoftPhoneApp for iOS, offer additional features like video calls, messaging, and user presence indication. These apps are compatible with Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, using Wi-Fi or cellular data networks for communication.

The history of softphones dates back to the early 1990s. The first well-known VoIP softphone, Speak Freely (formerly NetFone), was released to the public domain in 1991 by John Walker. Prior to that, Brian C. Wiles developed the first softphone using voice over Ethernet in 1989, driven by the desire to communicate with friends while playing PC games.

Today, softphones have evolved into powerful business communication tools. They are built for any platform that handles Internet-connected applications and can be used in a web browser or downloaded as desktop or mobile apps. For remote workers or individuals who need to balance work and personal life, having a softphone on hand provides the flexibility to stay connected without being tethered to a physical office.

In conclusion, a softphone app is a versatile and cost-effective communication solution that brings business telephony into the digital age. Its ability to support various calling modes, additional features, and cross-platform compatibility makes it an indispensable tool for modern businesses and individuals alike.