What is a Softphone?

This article explaines what a softphone, how they work and what typical features a softphone has

Table of Contents

So what is a Softphone? How does a softphone work? So what features does a softphone have?

In this article, we will take a look at what a Softphone is and what features a softphone has. 

So what is a Softphone?

A softphone is a software application that allows users to make voice calls over the internet, typically using a PC, Laptop, or Smartphone, without the need for a traditional phone line. Softphones are commonly used in Voice over IP (VoIP) systems like Agilico Connect and can function as a virtual phone, enabling users to dial, receive calls, and manage calls just like they would with a physical phone.

Softphones are often used by businesses and individuals for more flexible and cost-effective communication, as they can work on devices connected to the internet and usually offer features like voicemail, call forwarding, conferencing, and integration with contact lists.

Agilico has two types of softphones a web-based softphone that can run from any PC or Mac that has a Chromium-based browser such as Microsoft Edge, or Google Chrome and an app-based softphone that runs on iOS or Android.

How does a softphone work?

A softphone functions similarly to a traditional desk phone or landline, but instead of relying on physical hardware, it operates using software and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology to place calls. While the core purpose remains the same—making voice calls—softphone apps offer the ability to make and receiveyour calls from you business number from anywhere with an internet connection. 

Beyond simple voice calls, softphones allow for advanced features like call transfers, hold functions, and the ability to switch to a carrier’s network when needed. Using a softphone is easy: simply connect a headset or use your device’s built-in microphone and speakers, and the software handles the rest, utilising VoIP to make internet-based calls.

So what features does a softphone have?

Softphones have many of the features of a standard physical phone, some of the features include:

  • Call notifications
  • Call hold
  • Call transfer blind/attended (With address book search)
  • Call recording
  • Call muting
  • Personal and company address books
  • Call history
  • Call notifications
  • User status (Available, Away, DnD, Offline)
  • User status message (e.g. On leave until 1st March)
  • User image upload