VoIP technology allows users to route calls over the internet instead of through traditional copper lines. Since launching over 20 years ago, VoIP is now one of the most powerful technologies of the 21st century. It powers the way we connect with each other across the world.
According to VoIP Routes, VoIP is expected to soon be valued at $82.7 billion, growing at 6% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate). On top of this, according to Telecom Reseller, VoIP is one of the top performing industries of this decade, along with biotechnology and e-commerce.
VoIP services have taken over the business world thanks to the benefits they offer in terms of budget, job satisfaction, communication and numerous other factors. Anyone involved with VoIP – whether provider or consumer – needs to keep their finger on the pulse of this ever-evolving technology. So, here are some VoIP trends to be aware of this year:
5G Technology
In 2020, the fifth generation of wireless technology advancements (AKA 5G) is set to hit the mainstream market. Although this is still 3 years away, we expect to see various telecoms launching their test versions of 5G this year.
5G internet is expected to be 10 times faster than the current online speeds, and with the ability to transmit data faster and more easily than ever before, mobile connectivity is set to explode. 5G will handle more data, connect to more devices, significantly reduce latency and bring about new levels of reliability. What does this have to do with VoIP? Well, VoIP users – especially Mobile VoIP users – will benefit greatly from these faster download speeds and improved connections.
Improved Security
Since VoIP relies on internet connections, businesses can’t overlook the potential security issues that this technology presents. One of the current disadvantages of VoIP is that it is easier to breach than traditional landlines. Because of this, we expect 2017 to hold plenty of advances in VoIP security measures.
If your business is using/plans to use VoIP technology, make sure that you invest time and research into potential security solutions. For more information on VoIP security, see 5 VoIP security tips every business should use. The more prevalent VoIP becomes, the greater the need for additional security measures will be.
Increased Mobility + Flexibility
It’s official, we live in a mobile-first world. According to Forbes Magazine, 81% of CEOs see mobility as a top priority in terms of strategic importance for their organisations, with the aim of achieving competitive advantage over others. With the prevalence of mobile phones, we expect VoIP mobile phone services to become increasingly popular. Mobile VoIP offers business unparalleled flexibility, freedom and connectivity.
Read more about mobile VoIP technology
Integration with other software
‘Integration’ refers to the ability to incorporate other business services into a VoIP solution. As VoIP continues to gain popularity, it’s likely that we will see an increase in VoIP technology that is compatible with enterprise software. Unified Communications platforms (UC) give businesses access to a range of integrated features and apps from a single platform. We expect to see VoIP vendors making sure that their services will include the option of integrating with software like customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP).
VoIP & Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things – i.e. the concept of connecting any electrical device to the internet and/or other devices – is set to become the next generation of the Web. Since IoT is internet and communication based, VoIP technology is at its core. We expect 2017 to hold some breakthroughs in IoT and VoIP technology – the integration between these technologies will only accelerate as telecommuting, remote working and shared office spaces become the norm.
Read more about VoIP and the Internet of Things
And that’s it for now, but stay tuned to see how this exciting technology continues to develop.
Want to Take Advantage of VoIP Technology?
Don’t yet have VoIP for your business? Most telecommunications companies want you to look into cloud-based PABX, but there are other options that may be better for your business, like connecting your existing PABX system to VoIP via an ATA device. To find out which phone system is really best for your business (without being locked into a cloud-based contract), it’s always best to talk to an independent technician. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about VoIP and how you can take advantage of this money-saving technology. Want to add some extra value to your phone system? Why not add some customised messages on hold, and use your phone system as a marketing tool.