What is a virtual phone number?
VoIP technology, also known as IP telephony, is revolutionizing business telephony by making it possible to create virtual numbers that are completely detached from traditional physical lines. This innovation is radically transforming the way we communicate.
The operation is based on sophisticated technology that routes calls and messages via the Internet rather than through traditional telephone networks. This modern approach provides unprecedented flexibility in communications management.
Essential characteristics of the virtual number include:
- Intuitive management portal : Web and mobile administration
- Smart Redirection : Transfer to any connected device
- Multilocal presence : Local numbers without physical location
- Professional suite : Messaging, SMS, transfer management
- Cloud native integration : Connection to business tools
The technology adapts perfectly to the needs of modern businesses by offering an economical and scalable solution.
Why adopt a virtual number?
The adoption of a virtual number meets concrete professional needs and brings measurable strategic advantages. This modern solution is transforming business communication.
The commercial advantages are particularly relevant:
- International development : Creation of a global local presence
- Protection of privacy : Clear pro/personal separation
- Cost reduction : Infrastructure savings
- Optimized customer experience : Professional call management
- Strengthened brand image : Unified professional presence
The use of a phone number Secondary makes it possible to effectively separate personal and professional communications, thus offering better privacy management.
The technical aspect also offers significant added value with advanced functionalities such as voice transcription, CRM integration and centralized management. This solution is particularly effective for remote or geographically dispersed teams.
The combination of these technical and commercial assets makes the virtual number a strategic investment for any company seeking to optimize its communications while reducing its operational costs.
List of the best virtual phone number providers
Here is a list of the best virtual phone number providers for your business:
1. Hushed
Hushed is perfect for those who want to keep their privacy intact while staying connected. Whether you are a professional concerned about securing your communications or a traveller looking to avoid roaming charges, Hushed offers an economical, simple and reliable solution.
Hushed highlights
- Maximum confidentiality: Hushed does not ask for any personal information to sign up. You get a virtual number that you can use to make calls, send texts, or even communicate through messaging applications.
- Affordable cost: Flexible plans starting from a few euros per month. You can opt for a prepaid plan or choose a long-term subscription if you need it on a regular basis. Compared to solutions like Google Voice, Hushed is often more economical for international communications.
- Great for travelers: No need to worry about high roaming charges. Hushed allows you to obtain local numbers in more than 300 regions. Practical for staying in touch with friends and family or customers without blowing your budget.
- Ease of use: Download the app, pick a number, and off you go. In minutes, you're ready to call or text, all effortlessly.
Cost comparison
Hushed offers plans starting at €1.99 per week for one-time use, and monthly subscriptions around €4.99. Compared to a local SIM card or international packages, it is a smart choice to save money.
In conclusion
Hushed is an ideal solution for those looking for flexible, economical and above all secure communication. With its attractive rates and features designed to simplify your life, it is an essential choice to maintain your confidentiality and save on your communications.
2. MightyCall
MightyCall is perfect for small businesses or entrepreneurs who want a professional phone system without complicated hardware or high costs.
MightyCall highlights
- Simplicity and Accessibility: Easy to set up, no technical equipment required. Manage your calls directly via an application or a browser with a professional phone number.
- Pro features included: Local or toll-free numbers, call forwarding, voicemail, and multi-line management.
- Affordable rates: Starting at €15/month, MightyCall offers an economical alternative to traditional solutions.
Cost comparison
MightyCall's plans start at €15/month, with features included that other services charge extra. Compared to a physical telephone switchboard or to premium services like RingCentral, it's a much more economical option for small businesses.
In conclusion
MightyCall is a simple and effective solution for managing your business communications while maintaining low costs.
SEE MORE: Try MightyCall now
3. Nextiva
Nextiva is designed for small and medium-sized businesses looking for a complete and reliable telephone solution. With an intuitive interface and excellent call quality, it makes it easy to manage business communications, even for growing teams.
Nextiva highlights
- Reliability and Superior Call Quality: Nextiva guarantees flawless sound quality and a stable connection, perfect for important business calls.
- Rich and Versatile Features: Unlimited calls, voicemail transcribed via email, CRM integration, and collaboration tools like video conferences.
- Responsive Customer Support: 24/7 support to quickly answer all your questions or solve your technical problems.
Cost comparison
Nextiva offers subscriptions starting at €20/month/user. Compared to simpler services like Hushed, it's slightly more expensive, but includes advanced features tailored to growing businesses.
In conclusion
Nextiva is an all-in-one solution for businesses that want to manage their communications in a professional and efficient manner, while benefiting from high reliability and excellent support.
SEE MORE: Try Nextiva now
4. RingCentral
RingCentral is for businesses looking for a comprehensive, modern telephony solution. With a user-friendly interface and a multitude of features, it is the perfect tool to manage your internal and external communications with ease.
RingCentral highlights
- Perfect for teams of all sizes: Whether you're a small team or an established business, RingCentral offers options tailored to your needs, such as local, toll-free, or an international phone number.
- Advanced Features: Unlimited calls, conference calls, SMS/MMS, transcribed voicemail, and integration with popular tools like Microsoft Teams or Salesforce.
- Reliable cloud service: Access your phone system from anywhere using the cloud, ideal for teams working from home or on the go.
Cost comparison
RingCentral plans start at €20/month/user. Although slightly more expensive than some alternatives, it offers a wide range of features and reliable service, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking for flexibility.
In conclusion
RingCentral is a powerful and adaptable solution that simplifies business communications while providing modern, high-performance options to meet the growing needs of professionals.
SEE MORE: Try RingCentral Now
5. Dialpad
Dialpad is ideal for businesses looking for a telephone solution focused on artificial intelligence. With its advanced features and intuitive interface, Dialpad improves productivity while simplifying the management of professional communications thanks to artificial intelligence.
Dialpad highlights
- Integrated Artificial Intelligence: Real-time call analysis, automatic transcription and suggestions to improve your interactions with customers.
- Versatile features: Unlimited calls, video conferences, text messages, transcribed voicemail, and integration with tools like Google Workspace and Slack.
- Built for Mobility: Accessible from any device (smartphone, tablet or computer), ideal for teams on the go or working from home.
Cost comparison
Dialpad offers subscriptions starting at €15/month/user, making it a competitive solution. Compared to Nextiva or RingCentral, Dialpad stands out for its extensive use of AI while remaining affordable.
In conclusion
Dialpad combines innovation and simplicity to offer a smooth and effective communication experience. It is a perfect solution for businesses that want to modernize their interactions while controlling their costs.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Dialpad website
6. Dingtone
Dingtone is for those looking for an ultra-affordable solution to manage their calls and texts without compromising their privacy. Ideal for individuals, freelancers or small businesses, Dingtone makes it easy to get a virtual number for personal or professional use.
Dingtone highlights
- Ultra Reduced Cost: Cheap and even free calls and texts between Dingtone users. You can also earn credits through simple activities, which further reduces your fees.
- Simplicity and Flexibility: Get a virtual number in a few clicks and start calling or texting immediately, from your smartphone or tablet.
- Great for Privacy: Use a secondary number for online registrations or professional exchanges, without exposing your personal number.
Cost comparison
Dingtone offers plans starting at €1.99 per month for local numbers. International calls are also very competitive compared to traditional solutions, making them a great choice for tight budgets.
In conclusion
Dingtone is an economical and simple solution for anyone who wants secure and affordable communication. Perfect for individuals and businesses looking to control costs while protecting their privacy.
7. Onoff
Onoff is a perfect solution for those who need multiple numbers on a single device. Whether you are an entrepreneur managing several projects or an individual who wants to separate private and professional life, onOff offers you unique flexibility, without requiring an additional SIM card.
Onoff highlights
- Simple and Fast Multi-Numbers: Get and manage multiple virtual numbers directly from one app, whether for temporary or long-term use.
- Total flexibility: Change your number in one click or use several at the same time to meet different needs, whether for work, travel, or online exchanges.
- Privacy Protection: Hide your primary number and use a secondary number for personal or business communications.
Cost comparison
onOff plans start at €3.49/month for a local number. A much more economical solution than subscribing to several traditional telephone lines, while offering great flexibility.
In conclusion
Onoff is a modern and practical solution for anyone looking to simplify their communications management while maintaining low costs. An essential tool to easily manage several numbers securely.
How do I get a virtual number?
The acquisition of a virtual number is carried out via several channels, each adapted to specific needs. Specialized business telephony providers offer subscriptions that include advanced features, such as the personalization of greeting messages and access to detailed call statistics.
For simpler needs, virtual number applications available on the App Store or Google Play are a fast and economical solution, particularly suitable for freelancers and small structures.
Professional options include:
- Mobile solutions : Dedicated and flexible applications (on App Store and Play Store)
- Specialized services : Complete professional platforms
- Telecom providers : Integrated business offers
- VoIP providers : Solutions professional clouds
- Traditional operators : Hybrid fixed-virtual services
Large businesses often turn to traditional fixed and mobile phone providers, which ensure optimal call quality and seamless integration with existing business tools. This approach makes it possible to improve accessibility while optimizing the overall management of communications.
Key Features of a Virtual Phone Number: A Complete Guide
Virtual phone numbers have become an essential pillar for modern businesses. Here is a detailed analysis of the functionalities, with precise data and figures to understand their true added value.
1. Call forwarding and voicemail
The statistics speak for themselves: 98% of businesses improve their response rates thanks to intelligent call forwarding. This feature, deployed in over 150 countries, offers unparalleled flexibility.
The system now offers extensive customization:
- Global coverage with support in more than 150 territories
- Voice personalization in 30 different languages
- Dynamic configuration automatic redirections
The versatility of this function makes it an indispensable tool for any company concerned about accessibility.
2. Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
The data speaks for itself: 75% of calls reach the right contact person directly thanks to modern IVR. This remarkable performance is reflected in a reduction of 30% customer waiting time.
The choice between human and synthetic voices, combined with the support of 25 languages, allows a fine customization of the customer experience. The impact on user satisfaction is immediate and measurable.
3. Call routing with ACD (Automatic Call Distribution)
Intelligent call flow management improves 40% the resolution rate upon first contact. This technology is particularly relevant for structures managing a large volume of daily calls.
Real-time analysis optimizes each interaction:
- Customer history for personalized follow-up
- Agent availability live
- Skills required per request
- Call priority According to criteria
- Team performance Continuously
This data-driven approach turns each call into an opportunity for operational excellence.
4. Queue management and call groups
Intelligent queue management turns waiting into a positive experience. With a reduction of 68% of the dropout rate, this feature proves its daily effectiveness.
The user experience is enriched thanks to:
- Personalized messages While waiting
- Automatic notifications after 5 minutes
- Background music adaptable
- Real-time information On the position
This structured approach to expectations significantly reinforces customer satisfaction and the professional image of your company.
5. Integrated text messaging
Integrated messaging, available in 120 countries, is revolutionizing customer engagement. Statistics show that 85% of customers favor SMS confirmations, while MMS support in 60 countries considerably enriches the possibilities of interaction.
6. Call analysis and detailed reports
The detailed analysis of communications generates concrete results: 90% of businesses improve their performance of 20% thanks to the accurate monitoring of key metrics. Exports to Excel, CSV or Google Sheets facilitate in-depth analysis and decision-making.
7. Integrations
Integration with leading CRMs reduces ticket management time by 25%. REST API documentation allows for custom developments, offering maximum flexibility to technical teams.
9. International and multi-time zone compatibility
The management of 200+ time zones allows for a truly international presence. 85% of international businesses optimize their customer service thanks to this functionality, which is essential for global development.
10. Advanced security and privacy
End-to-end encryption and GDPR/HIPAA compliance ensure optimal security. 92% of users appreciate the protection of their privacy, making security a major asset of modern virtual numbers.
The combination of these functionalities creates a complete ecosystem that meets the current requirements of professional communication. Investing in a virtual number thus offers a measurable return on investment in terms of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
11. Desktop and mobile applications
Flexibility of use is now a major challenge for professionals. Native applications, available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, are radically transforming business communications management.
The user experience is considerably enriched thanks to:
- Universal sync between all devices
- Unified management Calls and messages
- Mobile reporting in real time
- Intuitive interface adapted to each platform
- Smart notifications configurable
The results speak for themselves: 95% of users are seeing a significant improvement in their professional flexibility. This increased mobility allows teams to maintain productivity wherever they are, turning each device into a true professional telephone exchange.
Benefits of using a virtual phone number
FAQS
What is a virtual number?
A virtual phone number is a number that is not directly linked to a physical phone line or a sim card. It works via the Internet and can be used on various devices like a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Businesses often use it to manage incoming and outgoing calls while hiding their personal or fixed number.
How do I get a free virtual number?
To get a free phone number, you can use apps like Google Voice, TextNow, or FreeTone. These solutions are ideal for freelancers or small businesses looking for a quick and free solution.
What is the cost of a virtual number?
The cost of a virtual phone number varies depending on the provider and the features included. On average, professional plans start at €5 per month for basic features, while advanced solutions can reach €30 per month or more.
What apps offer free virtual phone numbers?
Apps like Google Voice, Skype, TextNow, and FreeTone allow you to get free virtual numbers. They offer a variety of functionalities, but it is important to check their availability in your country.
How do I use a virtual number for WhatsApp?
To use a virtual number on WhatsApp, sign up with that number via the app. You will receive a verification code via text message or voice call on the virtual number app, which you can then enter into WhatsApp to complete the registration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the adoption of a virtual number represents a practical and economical solution to improve your telephone communications, whether you are a business or an individual. The benefits are numerous: reduced costs, privacy protection, flexibility and accessibility.
Choosing a service provider that meets your specific needs is crucial. Whether you need advanced features for business use or a simple solution for personal communications, there's a virtual number to suit every situation. Take the time to assess your needs and explore the options available to find the solution that's best for you. Once you have made your choice, you will be able to take full advantage of the advantages offered by this innovative technology.
