How to boost your business with VoIP on your mobile

Tom Grange
By Tom Grange, Director - Connectivity Business

Mobile VoIP for business offers a cost-effective and future-proof way to stay connected. It works a little differently to making and taking calls over a business mobile network, as it connects over an internet signal and is directly connected to your main business line.

It also offers a range of additional features including cloud-based call logging and analytics, as well as easy call-routing that makes it perfect for remote working. It’s also cheaper. 

Here’s everything you need to know about business mobile VoIP.

What is a mobile VoIP app? 

A VoIP mobile app is simply an app that supports the use of VoIP technology. This means it uses WiFi or the internet rather than a telephone line connection to make calls, send texts or take part in video meetings or conference calls. 

Although it may seem a little complicated at first, you’ve probably already used one or more of these mobile VoIP apps before, such as Skype or WhatsApp. 

But if you want to make the most of the available tech, you’ll need to sign up for a dedicated mobile business VoIP plan. This will enable you to make calls to any landlines and mobile numbers, not just those who have downloaded the same mobile app, and take advantage of any additional features.

What are the best mobile VoIP apps?

At Bionic, we understand that your business needs a reliable service alongside great rates. That’s why we work closely with our trusted business VoIP providers.

When you switch to business VoIP with Bionic, we’ll tailor a package to suit the needs of your business with one of the following providers:

  • Daisy
  • BT 
  • Focus
  • Gamma

Your package will include all the features you need to connect via VoIP - and none that you don’t - alongside a mobile VoIP app, if necessary.

Is mobile VoIP free?

Yes and no. The actual platform for VoIP calling is free, and you will be able to receive inbound calls for free. But you will get charged per minute for outbound calls.

Is mobile VoIP safe?

Just like any internet application, VoIP software can potentially be vulnerable to viruses and malware. However, VoIP is a pretty secure option and has been through two decades of penetration testing. Overall, VoIP service providers are very safe and adapt as security threats evolve. 

Can VoIP calls be hacked?

Again, like any device connected to the Internet, VoIP calls can potentially be targeted by hackers. However, by securing your settings, router, and phone system, you can safeguard yourself against this.

Can I use VoIP on my mobile phone? 

VoIP can be used on your smartphone by simply downloading your provider’s mobile app. This will give you access to all the features that come as part of your VoIP package.

Once the app is installed on your device you can make and receive calls using your work number, even if you’re away from the office. This can help your business in two ways:

  • A single business landline number saves confusion and makes for a better customer experience
  • Having a single landline number looks more professional than having one or more mobile numbers associated with your business. If you’re concerned that calls won’t be routed to the right person, you can use the mobile app to select which mobile phones can take calls. You can also use the virtual receptionist feature to handle incoming calls, take messages, transfer calls, and even make outgoing calls.

Mobile VoIP is a reliable and effective solution for your business, and a great way to future-proof your phone system before the analogue network is switched off in 2025. This will mean copper phone lines and ISDN lines will no longer be in use and all businesses will have to switch to a fully digital network. 

How does mobile VoIP work? 

Mobile VoIP works by making calls over your 4G or 5G connection or hooking up to a WiFi hotspot. As with all VoIP systems, calls are made over an internet connection rather than over a landline or mobile phone connection.

The most common way of using mobile VoIP is to download an app such as Skype, FaceTime or WhatsApp and call other users. 

The trouble is, this can be quite restrictive for business users as it only works if everyone you need to call has downloaded the same app. And although some providers allow you to call a regular landline or mobile number, this comes at an additional cost.

When you switch to business VoIP with Bionic, you’ll be able to make calls to any mobile and landline numbers and costs will be included as part of your package. Even if you’re using your provider’s mobile app, you’ll be able to call any number and not just those who have the same app downloaded.

When using mobile VoIP, it’s best to try and hook up to a WiFI hotspot, as using mobile data can really eat into your monthly allowance. There could also be issues with call quality if you have an unstable mobile data connection.

It’s also worth noting that calls, texts, and communication from mobile VoIP users are generally less expensive than say actually texting or calling phone to phone. To find out more, speak to one of our business connectivity experts and get a quote on 0800 086 1920.

How much do mobile VoIP calls cost? 

The cost of your VoIP calls depends upon the package you have and the type of calls you’re making. If you’re using VoIP mobile by connecting from app to app (like Skype or WhatsApp), call costs are generally free, but calling a mobile number or a landline will depend on your provider. 

If you’re using VoIP as part of a business deal, call costs will usually be included as part of your monthly subscription. 

What are the benefits of mobile VoIP?

There are several benefits when using mobile VoIP for business, but the main one - and the one that appeals to business owners most - is that costs are lower than using a standard business phone line

This is why a growing number of business owners choose mobile VoIP as a go-to - it’s a technology that can both lower overheads and streamline services using a range of useful features and add-ons.  

For instance, you can install hold music and a virtual queue to make answering calls more efficient and help ensure that you never miss an important call. 

Here is a quick outline of all the benefits mobile VoIP for business can bring: 

  • Never miss a call - VoIP is a cloud-based phone system and calls are routed through to the mobile app, meaning you and your employees can answer calls from anywhere.
  • Faster and cheaper - VoIP services are cheaper and faster than traditional phone services and you won’t have to pay multiple line rental charges.
  • Adaptable features - Manage multiple calls at once, including conference and group calls, and benefit from cloud-based call logging and a virtual receptionist.
  • Easy to install – As VoIP is a cloud-based system, there’s no need for bulky, intrusive physical lines and hardware to be installed. We can have you all set up in 48 hours.
  • HD call quality as standard - Make and receive VoIP calls in crystal clear HD quality sound, and manage your VoIP system remotely using a simple desktop or mobile app.
  • Simple multi-site network - If you run your business across several sites, they can all be served by the same VoIP connection, saving money on multiple phone lines. It's also worth checking if you could save money with a multi-site energy contract.
  • Save call logs and recordings securely  – VoIP offers safe, cloud-based storage of all call recordings to manage customer interactions and follow compliance recommendation

Switching to mobile VoIP for business also means you can scale back your mobile contract and have a data-only agreement if you choose, saving you costs like roaming fees and out of plan call charges. 

With more people than ever now working from home, the demand for technology that helps businesses run smoothly while working remotely has increased. VoIP mobile for business offers the perfect connectivity solution for remote workers, whether working from home or out on site. 

If you’d like to know more about mobile VoIP and what it can do for your business, give our Bionic experts a ring on 0800 086 1920 or enter your postcode on our business VoIP page and we’ll get straight back to you. 

How to set up VoIP on your mobile phone 

To set up VoIP on your mobile, all you need to do is make sure you’ve installed your provider’s mobile VoIP app on your smartphone. You’ll then be able to make calls from your business number when using your mobile.

When you switch to business VoIP with Bionic, we’ll make sure you have all the necessary features and that you’re on a package that caters specifically for your needs, whether you’re a sole trader or a larger business.

Are there mobile phones designed specifically for VoIP? 

Google (which produces Android phones), Nokia and Motorola have all been working on new handsets which incorporate VoIP technology into the phone as a standard. This means you won’t need to install any VoIP mobile apps at all.  

These new handsets are also smart enough to use the strongest connection available. This means that if your WiFi connection is weak or unstable while you’re on a call, the phone will automatically switch over to use your 4G or 5G connection for a better quality call.  

Can I use mobile VoIP on my existing business VoIP plan? 

This will depend upon the terms of your current business VoIP package. Although mobile VoIP might be included, if you’re unsure you should speak to your provider to find out if there are any extra charges for calling from your smartphone.

If you’re not currently happy with your existing VoIP plan, the tech-enabled experts at Bionic are here to help. For a quote on mobile VoIP, give us a call on 0800 086 1920 and we’ll talk you through the best options for your business. Or leave your postcode on our business VoIP page and we’ll give you a call back straight back to you.