What are Virtual Numbers?

A virtual number is a phone number that is not directly connected with a physical phone line. Instead, it routes calls to a pre-set phone or VoIP service. This provides you with better flexibility and mobility in communication.

Benefits of using Virtual Numbers

  1. Cost-Effective - Virtual Numbers have relatively lower costs as compared to traditional phone lines.

  2. Flexibility - You can use Virtual Numbers from anywhere, making them popular for remote work and international business.

  3. Scalability - Easily add or remove numbers as your business grows.

  4. Advanced features - You have access to a lot of other features like call forwarding, voicemail, and SMS integration.

  5. Masking personal number - By using a virtual number, you can maintain your privacy for online transactions or social media.


Now that you have got an idea about the many benefits of virtual numbers, you might be wondering about choosing the right provider. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Let’s explore some of the best providers on the market.

Services

Key Features

Pricing

Google Voice

Call Forwarding,

Voicemail Transcription, Spam Filtering, Integration, Multi-level Auto Attendants

Starter Plan: $10 per user/month

Standard Plan: $20 per user/month

Premier Plan: $30 per user/month


Twilio

Global Reach

API Integration

Call Tracking

Masked Calling

Direct Inward Dialing (DID)

Pay-as-you-go: Pricing varies based on usage and the type of number (local, toll-free, etc.).


Ring Central

Unified Communications

Team Collaboration

Video Meetings

Essentials Plan: $19.99 per user/month

Standard Plan: $24.99 per user/month

Premium Plan: $34.99 per user/month

Ultimate Plan: $49.99 per user/month


Grasshopper

Virtual Receptionist

Call Forwarding

Voicemail Transcription

Solo Plan: $29 per month

Partner Plan: $49 per month

Small Business Plan: $89 per month


With all the benefits considered, Virtual Numbers, however, come with certain challenges. For instance, they rely on internet connectivity, which can sometimes lead to poor call quality if the connection is unstable. There also might be some delay in voice transmission, especially for international calls. Before choosing a provider, you should be aware of any potential fraud and scams associated with them. Additionally, ensure data privacy and regulatory compliance to principles. To avoid these extra issues, you can turn towards WhatsApp API, which provides better benefits and services, while maintaining proper privacy.

At Heltar, we provide you with a lot of functionalities which will help you to escalate your business to a whole new level. You can automate workflows, send bulk messages, have team inboxes and also use no-code chatbots. 

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