The Shift from Traditional Landlines to Softphones: Why It Matters for Your Business
The transition away from traditional landline systems is accelerating, with countries like the US and Canada actively phasing out outdated wired phone infrastructures.
Back in 2017, the FCC paved the way for this change, and by 2018, offices such as Ontario’s Ministry of Finance had already adopted more efficient alternatives.
The challenge lies in identifying a secure, reliable, and cost-effective replacement for these legacy systems—and softphones have quickly emerged as the go-to solution.
What Is a Softphone?
A softphone is a software-based phone that lets users make and receive calls over the internet. Designed to be both powerful and affordable, softphones are perfect for small businesses looking for an easy-to-set-up solution packed with advanced features.
Not convinced yet? Softphones come in various versions, pricing plans, and feature sets—so you can pick the one that fits your business perfectly.
Best Softphone Apps for Businesses
To get the most out of a softphone, choosing the right app is key. Most are incredibly easy to use: just download the app, log in with your VoIP provider credentials, and you’re ready to go!
Whether you run a small business or manage a remote team, the right softphone ensures real-time communication and greater productivity.
Here are the top softphone apps to consider in 2025:
VoIP.ms Softphone
VoIP.ms now offers its own free Android app, known for its seamless integration with customer accounts and features like voicemail, caller ID, call recording, and SMS.
- Best For: Individuals, businesses of all sizes, and resellers.
- Highlights: Free push notifications (even when the app is closed) — a premium feature in most other apps.
- Key Features: Voicemail, SMS, call recording, caller ID, and excellent customer support.
Acrobits
A pioneer in the softphone space, Acrobits offers robust SIP apps like Groundwire, ideal for professional use.
- Best For: Businesses looking for secure, customizable solutions.
- Highlights: ZRTP encryption and white-label branding options.
- Key Features: Secure calling, video conferencing, call forwarding, push notifications, and attended transfer.
Bria
Bria offers solutions like Bria Solo and Bria Teams, tailored for businesses that prioritize collaboration.
- Best For: Teams that need strong integration and communication tools.
- Highlights: Team messaging, video meetings, and screen sharing.
- Key Features: Integrates with Outlook, Mac Address Book, Asterisk PBX systems, and more.
Linphone
An open-source SIP softphone, Linphone supports both audio and video and offers flexibility for developers.
- Best For: Tech-savvy users and businesses needing open-source solutions.
- Highlights: Community-driven development and strong documentation.
- Key Features: Cross-platform support (Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android).
Zoiper
Zoiper is known for its simplicity and powerful functionality, offering versions like Classic and Communicator.
- Best For: Businesses that want ease of use with advanced features.
- Highlights: Intuitive design and developer-friendly APIs.
- Key Features: SDKs, CRM integration, and support for multiple platforms.
How to Choose the Right Softphone App
Choosing the right app depends on your specific needs. Here are the most important criteria:
- Ease of Setup: Can your team start using it without technical knowledge?
- Features: Consider essentials like voicemail, call recording, video calls, SMS, and security features.
- Compatibility: Ensure it integrates with your current VoIP provider, PBX system, CRM, and devices.
- Cost: Look for a solution that balances price with the features you need.
Must-Have Features Checklist
Core Features
✔ HD voice/video calls
✔ Voicemail + transcription
✔ Call recording
✔ SMS/MMS support
✔ Conference calling
Productivity Tools
✔ Screen sharing
✔ Team messaging/chat
✔ CRM/PBX integration
✔ Call routing, auto-attendant
Security & Compliance
✔ End-to-end encryption (ZRTP/SRTP)
✔ Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
✔ Compliance certifications
Usability & Flexibility
✔ Cross-platform support
✔ Simple, intuitive interface
Advanced VoIP
✔ Push notifications
✔ Call analytics
✔ Auto-answer
✅ Tip:
Small businesses should focus on ease of use and essential tools.
Enterprises should prioritize security, compliance, and deep integrations.
Remote teams should look for collaboration features like team messaging and screen sharing.
Softphones vs. Hardphones: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | VoIP Softphones | Hardphones (Desk Phones) |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware Required | Just a phone, computer, or tablet | Requires a physical IP device |
| Portability | Use anywhere with internet | Limited to physical location |
| Setup Complexity | Simple—download and log in | May require IT configuration |
| Cost | Low—no hardware needed | Higher—hardware purchase required |
| Flexibility | Multi-device/platform support | Fixed to one device |
| Features | Rich (video, chat, SMS, integrations) | Basic voice features only |
| Integration | Easily integrates with other software | Very limited |
| Maintenance | Automatic updates | Manual firmware/hardware maintenance |
Final Thoughts: How to Pick the Best Softphone for Your Business
Whether you’re a startup or a large enterprise, the key is finding a softphone that delivers:
- Essential communication tools
- Strong security
- Seamless integration
- Cost-effectiveness
The top options of 2025 offer everything from HD calls and SMS support to encryption and CRM integration.
✅ Small businesses: Look for ease of use, SMS, and voicemail transcription.
✅ Enterprises: Focus on encryption, compliance, and system integrations.
✅ Remote teams: Collaboration tools are a must.
Ready to upgrade your business communications?
👉 Download the VoIP.ms Softphone today and enjoy seamless calling with powerful VoIP features—available now for Android.
