What is a softphone?
A softphone is software that makes and receives phone calls and text messages over the internet on a computer, tablet or mobile device, replacing the need for a physical desk handset.
A real softphone, not just an API.
The VanceTel softphone runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, Windows and Mac desktop, and the web. Calls and texts ring every device at once, and the shared inbox keeps the whole conversation in one place — so the app is finished, while the platform behind it stays programmable.
A softphone in practice.
A support rep installs the app on their laptop and phone. A customer texts the business number; the message lands in the softphone on both devices at once. The rep replies from whichever screen they are on, then taps the contact to place a callback — no desk handset, no second tool.
Keep reading.
Softphone questions.
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What is a softphone in simple terms?
A softphone is a phone that lives in software instead of hardware. It runs as an app on your phone, tablet or computer and uses your internet connection to place and answer calls and texts, so you do not need a physical desk phone.
How is a softphone different from a desk phone?
A desk phone is dedicated hardware tied to one location. A softphone is an app you can run on devices you already own, and it can ring several of them at once. The VanceTel softphone runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, Windows and Mac desktop, and the web, and you can still pair desk phones alongside it.
Can a softphone be controlled by software?
Yes — when the platform behind it is programmable. VanceTel pairs a real softphone with a REST API, webhooks, deep links and an MCP server, so calls and texts can be triggered, received and routed by your own apps, not just clicked by hand.