Category: Virtual Phone Number

Free Second Phone Number: How It Works

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Purple background with graphic of a smartphone and a title of How to get a second phone number for free

Key Takeaways

 

  1. There are various reasons why you’d need a second number but the 3 main reasons are: for business, online shopping and protecting your privacy
  2. The best way to obtain a second phone number for free is through apps that provide second phone numbers 
  3. Some of these options however may not be suitable for longer term use e.g. for business
  4. Business users may want to consider investing in a cost-effective solution like Devyce to get a second phone number

 

Need a second phone number but don’t want to purchase another phone, or sim card, or sign up for another phone contract? In this article, we’ll guide you through how you can get a second phone number for free…

 

Why you might need a second phone number

 

There are 3 main reasons why you might need a second phone number: 

 

  1. For business purposes – This is the most common reason for getting a second number. Business owners often find themselves having to hand out their personal phone numbers when starting their business. This isn’t ideal for security reasons, especially as the business grows. Therefore business owners may look into getting a second phone number to use for business communications only. A second phone number will also help to maintain professionalism for your business and provide you better work-life balance.
  2. For online shopping – Vendors usually need a phone number for delivery updates e.g. if a courier needs to contact you regarding the delivery status. However, this data is often stored and used for marketing purposes later (you’ll often sign up for this when you tick that little t&c box at checkout). If you wish to avoid this, it’s helpful to get a second phone number to use for your online shopping. 
  3. For protecting your privacy – Any time you sign up for anything whether it be an app or an event, the vendors have the right to collect and store your data. There’s usually no malicious intent behind this and it’s mostly for marketing purposes. However, occasionally companies experience data breaches, resulting in personal information stored by the organisation being leaked to the public. This means your data could end up in the wrong hands and you could be faced with continuous spam calls and elaborate scams. Using a second phone number can help to safeguard your personal information and prevent this from happening to you, should there be a data breach with any company you’ve worked with in the past.

 

Methods to obtain a free second phone number

 

The best way to get a second phone number for free is to use apps that provide virtual phone numbers. There are quite a few apps available on the market so we picked out the top 3: 

 

  1. Google Voice has both an app and a web interface that you can use. However, do bear in mind the web interface doesn’t allow outbound calling. You can only send and receive texts and listen to voicemails on the web interface. Through the app, you’ll be able to make and receive calls. It’s free to use without any ads and it will be tied to your Google account (if you already have one). However, the limitations of Google Voice are that it hasn’t been updated by Google for a long time. This means that they may choose to scrap Google Voice at any point, making it potentially an unstable option for long-term use such as for business. 
  2. Sideline is a great option that uses your phone carrier’s signal. This means as long as your phone has a connection, you can use Sideline to make and receive calls/texts. Sideline uses your existing carrier’s minutes and text allowances. This can be a downside if you are on a plan with limited minutes and texts however, this provides you with certainty of coverage so you know the service will always work. The limitations to Sideline are that it’s only a free service for 7 days. After your trial ends, you’ll start paying. Currently there is not information revealed about how much you’ll have to pay so Sideline is a good option if you only need a second phone number temporarily. 
  3. Burner – This is as the name suggests. A ‘burner phone’ application allowing you to get second phone numbers and delete (burn) them as you please! What we like about this app is that you can integrate it with other applications such as Slack, Google, and Evernote. This makes it a good tool for business use as it helps to streamline communications processes. The app also has a ‘lock’ function where you can prevent unwanted access to the app. Burner, however, like many others only offers a 7-day free trial. Furthermore, many users have noted that there are a series of user guides that are loaded into the app as notifications that pop up every now and then. Some users may find this inconvenient. 

 

Considerations and limitations of free second phone numbers

 

As you may have already noticed, free second phone numbers are for the most part not free forever. However, if you begin using a second phone number service and decide you like it, it can be worth investing in using it for the long term. 

 

We do advise however to thoroughly research while you are in the free trial period. This is because often vendors have hidden charges such as charges per text or call that may not be revealed. You should also check the contract conditions should you stay using the service past the free trial period. Many consumers get locked into a lengthy contracts with high exit fee implications. If this is something you might not be able to financially commit to, be sure to thoroughly check the terms and conditions of the service beforehand.

 

Second phone number apps are often designed for shorter-term usage. Therefore it’s best to evaluate your usage needs beforehand. For example if you are starting a business, you’ll need a number to use for the long term as it can create an unprofessional to customers if you are constantly changing the business phone number. Currently we’ve found that most free options for second numbers are not designed for business use. 

 

Get a second phone number for business

 

As a business user, it may be worth investing in an affordable and reliable virtual phone number provider like Devyce. They are a virtual business phone system provider with plans tailored to business users from freelancers to SME companies. 

 

How Devyce works is, it uses a WiFi or data connection to facilitate calls and texts (VoIP for those who are familiar, if not then think along the lines of WhatsApp)! Your second phone number is also provided through an app. The great thing about Devyce for business users is its ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature. At the switch of a button, you’ll get work-life balance as all your Devyce notifications will be turned off until your business hours resume. This removes the anxiety of still receiving business notifications after hours as Devyce operates on your personal phone. 

 

Devyce also comes with a variety of advanced calling features to enhance the professionalism and productivity of your business communications. For example, you can set up call forwarding which allows all incoming calls to be directed to the next available line, ensuring customers don’t have to wait or call back later. These advanced calling features are great for businesses that are growing. 

 

The service is a no-contract, subscription-based service. You’ll only ever pay monthly (unless you opt for the annual plan) and you’re welcome to leave the service at any time, without having to pay exit fees. Pricing is also fixed and transparent so you don’t have to worry about hidden charges. 

 

Devyce is the perfect business phone solution for business owners to keep their work and personal communications separate. While saving money and taking advantage of advanced technology to enhance business operations. 

 

Get in touch with our team and take advantage of our cutting-edge technology to grow your business today. 

 

How to get a business phone number as a small business

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Phone with Devyce App calling screen and title: How to get a business number as a small business

Have you been using your personal phone number to handle your small business communications? As your business and team grows, you’ll find it’s much better to have a dedicated business phone number attached to your company. This makes it easier for customers to call your business. As well as ensures that your calls are recognised by contacts you call.

 

Find out all you need to know about getting a business phone number as a small business in this article:

 

Why should I get a business phone number?

 

The main reasons small businesses should get a business phone number are to: enhance professionalism, improve customer service and increase organisation.

 

A business phone number demonstrates professionalism, whilst making it easier for them to reach the business quickly. Which in turn helps improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, separating personal and business communications through a separate business phone number keeps businesses organised. This prevents confusion between personal and business communications, leading to the delivery of better customer service.

 

What are the ways to get a business phone number?

 

There are several ways for small businesses to get a business phone number, depending on their needs and budget:

 

  1. Landline phone service: This is the traditional option. Landline phone service requires the installation of physical equipment (telephone lines, PBX systems and handsets). The phone will be at a fixed place eg. at an office.
  2. Mobile phone service: Many small business teams begin by using their personal phones for business purposes. However, this can create confusion between personal and business communications. So small businesses may consider setting up mobile contracts and using a separate handset for work.
  3. VoIP phone service: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a digital phone service that uses the internet to transmit calls. VoIP is often more affordable than landline phone services and can be used with traditional desk phones or mobile phones.
  4. Virtual phone system: A virtual phone service is a cloud-based phone service that allows businesses to manage their calls and texts using the internet. Virtual phone systems are a great option for businesses that need a professional phone number and want to manage their calls from anywhere. Businesses can get both mobile or landline phone numbers using a virtual phone system. You may wish to get a landline business phone number to sustain a professional, location specific branding.

 

What is the difference between VoIP and virtual phone systems?

 

Although VoIP and virtual phone system services both use the internet to make and receive phone calls, there are some key differences between the two:

 

VoIP phone services are typically focused solely on providing phone service and may be offered by a standalone VoIP provider or as part of a larger telecommunications package. With VoIP, users can make and receive calls using their internet connection and a mobile phone or a traditional desk phone with an adapter. VoIP phone services can offer a range of features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and call recording, but may not include additional business communication features such as messaging, and team collaboration tools.

 

Alternatively, virtual phone system services are a more comprehensive business communication solution that includes a range of features beyond phone service. Meaning virtual phone systems can better meet the communication needs of small businesses and provide a more unified and streamlined communication experience. Virtual phone services are usually delivered through an app. This can be installed on your personal phones however the communications will be kept separate as they’re only accessible through that app.

 

What are the benefits of a virtual phone system?

 

There are numerous advantages virtual phone systems provide to small businesses. These include:

 

  1. Cost-effectiveness: Virtual phone systems are generally more affordable than traditional phone systems. This is because there are usually no set up or hardware costs involved. Providers may also have flexible pricing plans that allow businesses to pay only for the features they need.
  2. Scalability: Small businesses can easily add or remove users and features as needed without having to invest in new hardware or software. Meaning the virtual phone system can be scaled to suit your business needs.
  3. Mobility: Teams can make/take calls from anywhere because the virtual phone system can be installed on the personal phones of employees. This makes it easy for small businesses to facilitate remote or hybrid working. Additionally, ensuring your business is reachable anywhere.
  4. Advanced features: Calling features like call forwarding, call grouping, and auto attendant are particularly useful to growing businesses. These features streamline customer communications as well as improve productivity within your team.
  5. Professionalism: A professional image can be achieved through features like auto-attendants, call routing, and voicemail. These features make it easier for customers to reach the business and elevate your brand’s image due to increased customer satisfaction.

 

How to get a business phone number with a virtual phone system?

 

To get a business phone number for your small business, research different providers and their functionalities, and consider the pricing carefully. Virtual phone system plans can be contract or subscription-based, with varying lengths for contract plans. Be sure to choose the right plan for your business needs, as breaking a contract can result in high costs.

 

On the other hand, subscription plans for virtual phone systems typically roll over monthly or annually and allow for cancellation before the next billing period. This pricing plan is ideal for small businesses that want to try out a service before committing to a long-term plan.

 

Once you have signed up with a provider, a new telephone number is usually provided. Alternatively, if you’d like to keep an existing number but upgrade your communications method to a virtual business phone system, you can opt to port your phone number to the provider. 

 

When setting up a virtual phone system for your team, your team members will be assigned different phone numbers. However, with call routing, you’ll be able to direct inbound calls made to a specific number, to various devices on the virtual phone network.

 

Explore Devyce for your business phone number solution

 

Devyce is the smarter, more reliable choice for your virtual business phone solution. While virtual phone systems already save your business money, save even more with Devyce. 70% more to be specific. How we do this is down to our exclusive deal with a UK mobile network. Meaning we are able to provide virtual numbers at a much lower cost than other providers, so we can keep your prices low. 

 

We believe in transparency in our pricing and have therefore made it easy for you with 3 simple plans. Our plans are flexible and suitable for businesses of all sizes, from small to medium enterprises. The best part? We don’t offer contracts! Meaning you’re welcome to stay with us for as long as you want. 

 

We’d love to show you why Devyce is the smartest choice to get a business phone number… So feel free to book a demo with us! 

What are virtual numbers for business communications?

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Image of a phone with a VoIP app open on the contacts screen. A blurred image of a management portal dashboard behind the phone.

Virtual numbers are the best choice for businesses to streamline their business communications as we approach the BT landline cut-off. But where do you begin to make the switch? Let’s talk about what virtual numbers are and why Devyce is the smartest choice for your business communications. 

 

What are virtual phone numbers?

 

Virtual numbers shouldn’t be thought of as the same as telephone numbers.

Virtual numbers are those that reside in the cloud, which is a remote network of servers & databases accessed over the internet. They aren’t linked to a specific device like a landline phone or a sim card. Instead, they’re linked to an owned phone number (by a telephone network provider).

 

How do they work?

 

As virtual numbers aren’t tied to a specific device, it means you can access them from any device with an internet connection, anywhere in the world. Virtual numbers are often accessed using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider. These providers let you access and use your virtual number through an app on your phone or laptop/computer.

 

Benefits of using a virtual phone number

 

You’ve probably put it together now that virtual numbers can be used on your existing phone. Even though you probably already have a sim card you’re using. So you can have two working numbers on your phone! We’d say that’s one of the biggest advantages to virtual numbers and here’s why… 

 

Cost savings

Using a virtual number for business communications is significantly cheaper than traditional phone systems or buying second handsets for your team. Employees more often than not will already have a smartphone that they can simply download the VoIP app, allowing them to use a virtual business number. By eliminating the need for hardware, you could save up to 50% on your business’ phone expenses [1].

 

Easy scalability

Scaling up or down can be a costly process when using traditional phone systems. Mainly because of the associated hardware and set up costs. Alternatively, virtual numbers on your business’ network can very easily be added or removed (often instantaneously to within a day) depending on your business’ needs. Meaning little to no downtime for your business communications and huge cost savings. 

 

Facilitates remote/hybrid working

Remote/hybrid work arrangements are becoming a key part of any businesses’ strategies. Virtual numbers remove the obligation on you and your employees needing to be at any particular location. Making it easier to build a remote/hybrid business while maintaining your business’ reachability.

 

Enhanced privacy

Smaller businesses may be requiring employees to use their personal numbers to contact clients. Employees may not be comfortable with this and you could risk accidentally sending a follow up message with sensitive information to the wrong person. Alternatively, virtual numbers allow you to keep your business and personal contacts separate as your calls and texts are made from the VoIP app.

 

Access to integrations and additional capabilities

Unlike traditional phone systems, a virtual business phone network allows various integrations with software like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools. Additionally, virtual numbers come with a whole range of call features such as call forwarding, call summarisation, auto attendant and many more. Meaning you can level up your business communications with smarter, more advanced technology.

 

That’s right, virtual numbers are the future of business communications. However with so many emerging VoIP providers on the market, how do you know which is the best choice for your business? While many posts you may have read will tell you it depends on your business needs… we have a clearer answer. Devyce

 

The smartest choice for your business

 

VoIP already saves your business money. Devyce saves you even more. 70% more to be specific. How we do this is down to our exclusive deal with a UK mobile network. Remember virtual numbers are linked to an owned telephone number? Our partnership with a mobile network means we can provide numbers at a fraction of what other VoIP companies are offering because we don’t have to pay fees to get those phone numbers from a provider. 

 

Our pricing is transparent. Often VoIP providers have hidden charges. You may find yourself signing up and then needing a feature like auto attendant and having to pay an additional fee to add it to your package. So we keep it simple with our Teams Plan, offering you everything your team will need from the get go. Devyce plans are also not lengthy contracts so you can decide how long you want to stay. 

 

When you’re ready to make the switch to a smarter, more reliable work phone system, we’d be happy to assist you! Simply choose the plan best suited for you and sign up on our website.

 

 

References:

[1] https://telzio.com/blog/cost-benefits-switching-voip-service#:~:text=On%20Cost%20Savings%201%20Companies%20can%20reduce%20monthly,Thus%2C%20companies%20%2C%20rather%20than%20paying%20per%20user.

 

WhatsApp Business Number: How To Get A Virtual Number For WhatsApp Business

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WhatsApp is one of the most widely used instant messaging apps with over 2 billion users worldwide [1]. 68% of these users report that WhatsApp Business is the easiest way to contact a company [2]. This means your current and potential customers’ primary messaging channel is likely WhatsApp and therefore WhatsApp Business provides a great opportunity to enhance your customer experience. 

Launched in 2018, it has increasingly gained popularity amongst SMEs as a simple and cost effective customer communications channel. The ability for businesses to quickly connect with their consumers in a more personal and engaging way is what sets WhatsApp Business apart from traditional customer service channels such as email. 

In this article, we’ll break down everything you’ll need to set up WhatsApp Business and get started on elevating your customer service experience.

How it works:

WhatsApp Business is a free to download app which looks and works the same as WhatsApp Messenger except with added business features such as: business profiles, automated responses, quick replies and access to analytic data. Customers can contact a company by messaging the company’s WhatsApp Business account from their personal WhatsApp messenger. 

 

Things to know before set up:

We’d recommend using WhatsApp business with a virtual number. Even though there’s an option to migrate your personal WhatsApp number to the business platform, we don’t recommend doing this to protect your privacy. Opting for this also means you won’t be able to move those chats back to your personal account should you wish to. 

In order to set up WhatsApp Business, you’ll need a working phone number that you can receive calls and texts to. The platform will verify that the number is in operation by sending a one-time-passcode (OTP). Don’t worry, to get a second phone number you don’t need a new sim or additional handset… you can get a virtual phone number!

 

What is a virtual number: 

Virtual numbers are phone numbers that don’t operate via traditional phone lines such as those provided by phone contract providers. Instead, they work by facilitating calls and texts over a wifi/data connection meaning virtual numbers can be used on any device capable of connecting to the internet. This will allow you to have an additional working number on your phone without needing a different sim card.

However, it’s important to note that WhatsApp often won’t work with a VoIP virtual number. This is because Meta want to prevent WhatsApp Business being used to spam users and are banning the use of VoIP numbers to sign up. So even if your virtual number works now, there’s a chance it won’t in the future. The best approach is to get a virtual number issued by a company providing real operating phone numbers. 

 

How to get a virtual number:

There are currently various virtual number providers on the market offering packages of all shapes and sizes. Choosing your ideal provider may depend on your business needs. We’d recommend getting an affordable, simple and secure service like Devyce Starter when you first set up your WhatsApp Business account. 

Devyce Starter gives you a virtual number through the Devyce app that you can get the OTP for your WhatsApp business account verification sent to. It only costs £3.99 a month (without VAT), and there’s no long-term commitment. Stay as long as you like! Devyce also offers free inbound calling and messaging as well as voicemail. If you wish to, you can also upgrade for outbound calling, which means you can use your number throughout your business.

The best part? Devyce has an exclusive deal with a UK mobile network. The numbers that Devyce issues are real UK mobile phone numbers meaning they’re much less likely to be cut off by WhatsApp in the future. 

To get your Devyce number, first head to our sign up page and purchase the Devyce Starter plan. You’ll then be instantly set up with an account which you can use to sign in on the Devyce app (downloadable from your app store). Once your app is up and running, you’ll be able to use the number to set up WhatsApp Business.

With just a few simple steps, we make it easy for you to start boosting your business’ customer experience. Get your virtual number now with Devyce Starter! 

References: 

[1] https://backlinko.com/whatsapp-users

[2] https://www.tyntec.com/blog/four-advantages-using-whatsapp-business-api#:~:text=Research%20shows%20customers%20prefer%20messaging%20businesses%20via%20WhatsApp,is%20the%20easiest%20method%20for%20contacting%20a%20company

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