There’s an old saying: “You get what you pay for.” That’s usually true — think Rolex vs the knock‑off, or a full Outlook mailbox versus a free webmail account. So when someone asks, “What’s Vobi? Why do I need it if I already use WhatsApp calling?” — fair question.
WhatsApp — brilliant for friends and family
WhatsApp changed everything for messaging. It uses your data or Wi‑Fi to send unlimited messages, share media, create groups and make voice or video calls — all without the SMS charges your mobile operator would charge. It’s simple, ubiquitous and excellent for staying in touch with people who are already on the platform.
But there’s a catch: WhatsApp only works seamlessly if the person you want to call or text is on WhatsApp too. If they’re not, you’ll need another method — usually your mobile airtime or a landline — and that’s where limits and costs creep in.
Vobi from Vox — the softphone that does more
Vobi is a Vox mobile softphone that gives you Voice, video and text from your mobile phone, but with some key extras. Yes, it does all the things WhatsApp does. But it also lets you call any number (mobile or landline), not just other app users. That difference is huge for anyone who needs to reach people outside a single messaging ecosystem.
Quick wins with Vobi:
- Call any number: make local calls to mobiles and landlines at reduced rates — handy when the person you’re calling isn’t on WhatsApp.
- Vobi‑to‑Vobi: low or no cost for calls between users — great for families and small businesses.
- International calling without roaming: call overseas without costly roaming arrangements.
- Battery and data efficient: leaner data use than typical VoIP apps; uses local push notifications.
- Seamless setup: activate via a web interface — no fiddly configuration.
- Phonebook integration: works with your existing contacts.
- Professional features: call recording, conference calling, call transfers, speed dial and Bluetooth headset support.
- Constant availability: route your home or office calls to your mobile so you never miss a call.
- PBX compatibility: works with Vox hosted PBX for business users.
Who benefits most?
The app suits both consumers and small to medium businesses. If you want the convenience of app calling but need to reach landlines, international numbers or keep business calls professional (recording, transfers, conference calling), it gives you flexibility WhatsApp alone cannot.
Keep your number — or get a new one
You can port your existing number to Vox and use it in the app, so incoming calls stay on your familiar number. Or, pick up a new Vox number and make all your audio and video calls through the app — effectively turning your mobile into your home or office phone.
More than another free chat app
WhatsApp is brilliant for social messaging. Vobi is designed to be more useful when you need reach, flexibility or professional features. If “more is more” sounds like a plan (better call quality, lower rates to non‑app numbers, and PBX integration), Vobi is worth a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Vobi?
- Vobi is a Vox mobile softphone app for voice, video and text that lets you call other Vobi users and any mobile or landline number using the Vox network.
- Is it free?
- The app is free to download on Android and iOS. Call rates vary depending on destination and whether you call another Vobi user or a non‑Vobi number.
- Can I keep my current phone number with Vobi?
- Yes — you can port your existing number to Vox and use it in the app, or choose a new Vox number.
- How is it different to WhatsApp?
- Unlike WhatsApp, Vobi lets you call any mobile or landline number (not only other app users), supports call recording, conference calling and can integrate with Vox hosted PBX for business use.
- Will it use lots of my mobile data?
- Vobi is optimised for efficient data use and typically consumes less data than some other VoIP apps, but actual usage depends on call length and whether you use voice or video.
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