Updated : February 9, 2026One crucial thing in business communication is to keep it simple.
According to my experience, what really matters is “being reachable”. This is where virtual phone number apps help businesses.
They ensure businesses stay easily reachable and can manage calls in an easy manner.
Also, businesses are starting to understand its importance. That’s why the virtual number apps market is expected to reach $9.2billion at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2026 to 2033.
This article will explore benefits, features, the best virtual number apps (free and paid), and much more.
Why Businesses Are Moving Away From Traditional Phone Systems
I totally agree with the fact that traditional business phone systems once felt reliable, but today they hold teams back. Costs add up, flexibility drops, and visibility disappears. Businesses want speed, clarity, and control. That’s where old phone setups start to fail.
Let’s explore the reasons behind companies ditching old phone setups and making the move towards virtual phone number apps.
1. High Setup and Maintenance Costs: Traditional systems demand heavy upfront spending. Hardware, installation, and annual maintenance eat into budgets fast. Even small changes need a technician.
2. Hardware Dependency: One broken device can disrupt the entire setup. Teams have to wait days just to replace a phone or fix wiring. Desk phones tie people to one place, which makes remote or hybrid work harder.
3. Limited Analytics and Call Tracking: With old systems, I often see teams guessing instead of knowing. Call data is basic or missing. There’s no clear view of missed calls, peak hours, or agent performance.
4. Missed Calls = Lost Revenue: Businesses lose leads simply because no one was available. Traditional systems don’t re-route calls or follow up automatically.
5. No CRM or Tool Integrations: This is a big one. Traditional phones work in isolation. Agents have to switch screens just to find customer details. This slows conversations and frustrates customers. Modern teams expect calls to connect with CRM and support tools instantly.
- 30% of an agent's day is spent switching between tools. Fragmented solutions can even boost the average resolution time by 26%.
Key Benefits of Using a Virtual Phone Number App
One small change can improve the way businesses communicate. VoIP number apps don’t just replace desk phones. They simplify daily work, improve visibility, and help teams stay connected. Here’s where the real value shows up.
1. Professional Business Presence
A dedicated business number instantly builds trust. Customers feel more confident calling a proper business line instead of a personal number. You can set greetings, call routing, and working hours easily.
- Businesses with a professional call setup often see higher call answer rates and better first impressions.
2. Better Customer Support Experience
Customers want quick answers without repeating themselves. Virtual phone number apps make that possible by showing call history and notes in one place. I’ve seen support teams resolve issues faster when they have context upfront.
3. Improved Sales Performance
Sales teams work better when calls are tracked and routed properly. With virtual phone numbers, businesses can reduce the number of missed leads by sending calls to available agents. Features like call recording and analytics help teams learn what works.
Review call data regularly to keep a tab on pitch quality and close rates. Regular reviewing can help improve.
4. Flexibility for Remote and Global Teams
This is where virtual numbers really shine. Teams can take calls from anywhere without losing professionalism. No hardware and no physical location needed. Global numbers also make it easier to serve customers in different regions.
Must-Have Features in a Virtual Phone Number App
Virtual phone number apps go beyond basic calling. The right features should reduce daily friction, protect user data, and make communication smoother. Below are the features that are must-needed.
1. Calling & Messaging
Calling and messaging are the foundation of any virtual call app.
- Calling and Messaging: Businesses can smoothly cater to outgoing and incoming calls without drops or delays.
- SMS, MMS, and OTP: Businesses need this feature more than they imagine, especially for customer updates and verification.
- Voicemail and Voicemail-to-text: It helps agents catch up quickly without listening to long messages.
2. Privacy & Security
Privacy is non-negotiable. Without strong protection, even the best calling features can turn into a risk.
- Caller ID Masking: Protects and hides personal numbers while keeping communication professional.
- End-to-end Encryption: Adds a layer of trust, especially when calls involve sensitive details.
- Two-factor Authentication Compatibility: With two-factor authentication, businesses can make sure only the right people access accounts, even if passwords get exposed.
3. Advanced Communication Features
This is where a virtual phone app truly adds value, as efficiency, control, and smarter call handling really come together.
- Call Forwarding: Businesses can ensure smart routing so that no call goes unanswered.
- Auto-attendant and IVR: Businesses can guide callers easily to the right agent. Call recording and analytics help improve performance over time.
- Multiple Numbers in One App: Managing each number from one app keeps everything organized.
Best 6 Virtual Phone Number Apps (Paid)
Virtual phone number apps help businesses a lot in simplifying calling and texting. However, it is important to select an app that suits your particular business needs. Here are a few best virtual phone number apps.
1. Nextiva
Nextiva is a unified communication solution with strong collaboration capabilities. It works well for support and sales teams that need clear call insights. It also includes video and chat features alongside voice.
Features
- Unified Communication
- Built-in CRM
- Conversational Analytics
- Speech to Text Transcription
- Call Monitoring
Pros of Nextiva
- It is easy to use and offers reliable call quality.
- Nextiva actually feels cohesive instead of stitched together.
Cons of Nextiva
- A bit heavy at times compared to lighter communication tools.
- Sometimes, spam call blocking identifies but doesn’t block numbers permanently.
Why I Suggest Nextiva?
- Nextiva is designed especially for teams that value consistency and call quality. What really makes Nextiva stand out is how well it combines voice, automation, and CRM capabilities in one platform. For businesses that want a unified communication setup with minimal friction, this makes a real difference.
Download Nexitva App:
Price
- Core: $52 /user/month
- Engage: $38 /user/month
- Power Suite: $100 /user/month (Up to 100 Agents)
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
2. RingCentral
RingCentral covers voice, messaging, and video, which is helpful when teams need a single platform. Its reliability and scalability stand out. It includes virtual business phone numbers, call forwarding, and advanced routing.
Features
- Interactive Virtual Response
- Automatic Call Recording
- Voicemail-to-email
- Unlimited Calling
- Team Messaging
- App Integrations
Pros of RingCentral
- Works well on the phone, giving the flexibility to work even when away from the desk.
- Unifies customer interactions across multiple channels with AI-powered efficiency.
Cons of RingCentral
- Expensive pricing and a challenging learning curve.
- Limited options for customization and awkward integrations
Why I Suggest RingCentral?
- I’ve seen many business communication platforms fall short in one area or another. But with RingCentral, businesses can consistently deliver strong quality and uptime. It simplifies workflows while still providing the convenience of advanced capabilities. RingCentral is even effective for both remote and hybrid teams.
Download RingCentral App:
Price
- Core: $20 per user/Month
- Advanced: $25 per user/Month
- Ultra: $35 per user/Month
- Customer engagement bundle: (Contact for More Details)
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
3. CallHippo
CallHippo offers you a virtual phone number app to help you setup virtual numbers in 50+ countries fast. Its smart call routing, IVR menus, and detailed call analytics that help teams track performance. It works on both mobile and desktop, so you’re reachable anywhere. CallHippo also supports CRM integrations to keep customer details in one place.
Features
- Call Routing and Forwarding
- Omnichannel Inbox
- Advanced AI Tools
- Post Call Summaries
- Call Queues
- Predictive Dialer
- Multi-device Support (Mobile, Web Browser, etc.)
- Seamless Integrations Capabilities
- AI Voice Agent
- Virtual Receptionist/Auto-attendant
Pros of CallHippo
- CallHippo is a complete business phone system with clear call quality, seamless CRM integration, and affordable international calls.
- Fast & easy to use interface allows businesses to implement the solution quickly.
Cons of CallHippo
- Customization can be better, especially when it comes to reporting and analytics.
- Sometimes the application takes more time to load.
Why I Suggest CallHippo?
- I suggest CallHippo because it strikes a rare balance between advanced call center capabilities and day-to-day ease of use. Teams can get started easily without the need for heavy training. Businesses gain the much-needed visibility and total control over their business’s communication operations.
Download CallHippo App:
Price
- Basic Plan: $1 per user/Month
- Starter: $19 per user/Month
- Professional: $29 per user/Month (Popular)
- Ultimate: $45 per user/Month
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
Manage customer calls easily with CallHippo’s virtual phone number app
4. Dialpad
Dialpad offers real-time transcription, call summaries, and voice intelligence. It makes calls more interactive and insightful, especially for sales and support teams. It also integrates with popular CRMs, so conversations are always contextual.
Features
- Call Transcription
- Virtual Phone Number
- Number Porting
- Video Conferencing
- IVR System
Pros of Dialpad
- An effective, dependable, and easy-to-use communication tool that improves teamwork and productivity.
- Real-time transcription and automated call summaries save a ton of time
Cons of Dialpad
- AI transcription is useful, but it can miss words or struggle with industry-specific terminology.
- Sometimes it automatically turns off while on a call.
Why I Suggest Dialpad?
- Dialpad redefines what modern and hassle-free communication feels like. From enhanced call quality to real-time AI assistance, it offers value to teams that require productivity. It is easy to adapt as well. It is built to cater to enterprise-level communication requirements.
Download Dialpad App:
Price
- Standard: $15 user/month
- Pro: $25 user/month
- Enterprise: (Contact for More Details)
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
5. Quo
Quo keeps things clean and simple. It is also the best second phone number app for growing businesses. Quo helps businesses to easily manage all calls, texts, etc., in one place. With its automation and integration capabilities, Quo simplifies calling a lot easier for businesses. Quo’s transparent pricing and quick setup make it beginner-friendly.
Features
- SMS Templates
- Voicemail Transcription
- Shared Inbox
- Lightweight CRM
- Call Management
- Conference Calls
Pros of Quo
- It’s simple to use, very organized, and incredibly easy to handle.
- Quo’s texting and calling clarity is great. It streamlines communications in one easy-to-use app.
Cons of Quo
- Overwhelming for new users or users not as familiar with technology.
- The Webhook API is very limited and doesn’t give us access to messages.
Why I Suggest Quo?
- Quo brings a fresh, user-centric approach to call center and business communication. Its interface feels intuitive from the get-go, allowing users to make the most out of the app. Quo’s features adjust without overwhelming users or requiring constant toggling.
Download Quo App:
Price
- Starter: $15 per user/per month
- Business: $23 per user/per month
- Scale: $35 per user/per month
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
6. Grasshopper
Grasshopper is built for small businesses and solopreneurs. It is built for businesses that need a professional phone presence without complexity. It lets you pick local, toll-free, or vanity numbers quickly.
Features
- Business Text Messaging
- Voicemail Transcription
- Virtual Numbers
- Extensions
Pros of Grasshopper
- Grasshopper is a cost-effective solution with a superb voice quality.
- The setup is very easy and customer-friendly.
Cons of Grasshopper
- Missing Chat Support & Only Available In USA & Canada
- Sometimes calls drop without notice, and if the call is closed, it gets frozen.
Why I Suggest Grasshopper?
- Grasshopper standsout for being clean and simple. It is the best virtual number app if you want phone number extensions. It focuses on core calling experiences that matter most. From clear voice quality to dependable performance, it ensures each call is handled with professionalism.
Download Grasshopper App:
Price
- True Solo: $14/account
- Solo plus: $25/account
- Small Business: $55/account
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
Top Free Virtual Phone Number Apps
Above, we explored a few paid virtual phone number apps that help businesses make and receive calls easily. Now, let’s explore the list of top free virtual phone number apps.
7. Google Voice
Google Voice Number works well for users tied to Google Workspace. Its voicemail transcription and spam filtering are useful, especially for small teams. It also integrates naturally with Gmail and Calendar.
Features
- Call Forwarding
- Spam Call Filtering
- Voicemail Transcription
- Google Workspace Integration (Gmail, Meet, Calendar)
Pros of Google Voice
- Protects personal phone numbers from scams and cold calls by screening the calls.
- Easy to sign up and set up your account. Also, calls are free in the US.
Cons of Google Voice
- Collaboration is limited; it can be difficult to manage contacts.
- Extra fees are charged for international calls.
Why I Suggest Google Voice?
- Google Voice is a simple and dependable virtual phone number app for businesses. Great if businesses want a familiar experience and if they already use Google apps. I also recommend Google Voice for its flexibility and affordability.
Download Google Voice App:
Price
- Starter: $10/user/month
- Standard: $20/user/month
- Premier: $30/user/month
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
8. TextNow
TextNow offers virtual calling and texting with free options in the U.S. and Canada. It lets you stay reachable even without a traditional SIM card. It’s basic but gets the job done for calls, SMS, and voicemail.
Features
- Free Unlimited VoIP
- 5G Calling
- SMS Texting
- Voicemail
Pros of TextNow
- TextNow offers a wide phone number availability in the US and Canada.
- It offers an interface that feels familiar. And is also quite straightforward to use.
Cons of TextNow
- When using TextNow, the advertisements clutter the interface.
- To use a 5G plan, you would need a SIM card, for which you would have to pay $4.99.
Why I Suggest TextNow?
- TextNow is the best second phone number app. It offers a truly flexible and cost-friendly way to manage business communication. What makes TextNow stand out is how mobile-first and user-driven the experience feels. With TextNow, businesses do not compromise basic calling and messaging for cost. For teams that need a lightweight communication solution, TextNow can be the best solution.
Download TextNow App:
Price
- VoIP Calling: Free
- 5G/4G Cellular Service: Free ($4.99 SIM card (One-time fee))
- Data Pass: $39.99
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
9. Talkatone
Talkatone is a mobile calling and texting app that gives you a phone number you can use over Wi-Fi or mobile data. You can manage calls and send SMS/MMS to most U.S. and Canadian numbers. It’s simple and useful for basic communication.
Features
- Unlimited SMS Messages
- Voicemail Support
- Multiple Device Support
Pros of Talkatone
- The app can be used without opting for a long-term plan or subscription.
- The same number can be logged in via different devices.
Cons of Talkatone
- Basic services are completely free, but businesses need to pay extra for add-ons.
- No push notifications. So, if someone calls and the app is not running, the call can be missed.
Why I Suggest Talkatone?
- For businesses, Talkatone is an affordable and reliable way to stay connected. If you want a lightweight, low-cost way to get a U.S./Canada phone number for everyday calling and texting, Talkatone is worth checking out.
Download Talkatone App:
Price
- Free Plan: Free
- Talkatone Plus: $4.99/month
- International Calling: $12.99–$14.99/month
*pricing as on 09/02/2026
Free Isn’t Always Free: The Real Cost of Free Virtual Number
I know the temptation that businesses might feel in choosing free virtual numbers. But what they don’t consider is the hidden trade-offs. What seems like a cost-saving choice often creates bigger problems that impact trust, reliability, and growth.
Let’s see what costs businesses have to pay when using a free virtual number.
1. Lack of Customer Support: Free virtual number apps usually come with little to no support. When something breaks, you are left figuring it out alone. For businesses, such delays cost a lot.
2. Verification Issues: Many free numbers fail OTP and verification checks. This makes account setup unreliable. Teams end up wasting hours just trying to verify tools.
3. High Potential for Abuse & Spam: Free numbers get recycled often and are heavily abused. Because of this, carriers and customers trust them less. Also, phone calls may get flagged as spam, hampering credibility.
4. Security & Privacy Risks: Free tools rarely offer strong encryption or access controls. For customer conversations, this is risky. Privacy gaps can quickly turn into compliance issues.
5. Poor Reliability & Quality: Free numbers often struggle with call drops and delays. Their voice quality also fluctuates. When calls matter, inconsistency creates a bad experience.
CallHippo: Start Business Calling in 3 Minutes
Business calling should feel simple, not time-consuming. The right virtual phone system app helps you stay reachable. It should also assist you in sounding professional and managing conversations without extra effort.
That’s where a virtual phone number app, such as CallHippo, fits in naturally. It allows for quick setup, smart call handling, and easy team collaboration. This removes the usual friction from business calls.
FAQs
1. Are virtual phone number apps legal to use?
Yes, they are legal. Although it is a secure practice to verify that the virtual call app provider complies with all telecom standards. This helps you keep a safe distance from legal consequences.
2. Can I keep my existing phone number and use it as a virtual number?
In most cases, yes. However, you need to check whether your virtual phone number provider offers number porting. If they do, you can port your existing number and use it as a virtual number.
3. Can virtual phone numbers receive international calls?
Yes. But it might depend on the service provider and plan you choose. Some virtual number business phone solutions offer an international calling option for free or at minimal rates. While some charge an extra fee per minute or call.
4. Are virtual phone numbers suitable for WhatsApp or other messaging apps?
Some virtual number business phone apps work with WhatsApp and similar mobile apps, but not all. It depends on the provider and whether the number supports verification.
5. Can multiple team members use the same virtual number?
Yes, many VoIP number apps, such as CallHippo, Quo, Dialpad, etc., allow multiple users to use the same virtual number.
Published : February 9, 2026
Ankit Dudhwewala is the CEO and Co-founder of CallHippo, a leading virtual phone system designed to optimize business communication through AI and automation. With a strong background in marketing and business administration, Ankit has successfully built and bootstrapped CallHippo. Ankit’s leadership and innovative approach have made him a prominent figure in the SaaS industry, driving growth and shaping the future of business communication solutions.
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