Best Second Phone Number Apps: Everything You Need to Know
(Photo : Priscilla Du Preez via Unsplash)

Whether you're a sole trader, a small business, or a freelancer, or just a startup looking for a second phone number or you want a second number for business travel, websites, or to give out to strangers, you can benefit from a second phone number app. 

Today it's very easy to get an extra number without any hassle, and it eliminates the need to spend on another phone number with a wireless carrier. You can just get a second phone number app to add another private line to your phone. This allows you to keep your primary number private and give it just to people you know.  

And if you're unsure of getting a second phone number app, we have you covered. From the benefits of a second number to how to choose the best second phone number apps, we cover all that you need to know.

How does a second phone number work?

A second number works just like the first number. You can both make and receive calls on this line. And while you can get a second SIM for the same purpose, not all phones support a second SIM, like older models of iPhones. In cases like this, you can benefit from a second phone number app.

Uses & Benefits of a Second Phone Number

There are many benefits of a second phone number. For instance, it can make communication seamless and easy and it can help save time. Other uses and benefits include:

A separate line for work

A second phone number app gives you a different number that you can use for work-related messages and calls. This allows you to keep your personal contacts, messages, and calls separate from your work contacts and correspondence.

Added privacy 

Using one number for both your personal and work calls compromises your privacy. Think about it: if you put your personal number online, you can expect to receive a lot of spam calls. But with a second phone number app, you can get a second number for work and list that on your website without worrying about your privacy being at risk.

Set up auto-reply

With a second phone number app, you can set an auto-reply so that you no longer have to worry about missing a business call when you're away on the weekend or you want to spend some time with family outside office hours. So, you can enjoy a better work-life balance.

Easy to use 

Most second phone number apps are very intuitive and easy to use. Once you downloaded the app on your phone, you can get started in just a short time. Plus, you don't need to wait for the provider to activate the number. 

No need for a second phone

Apart from eliminating the need for a second SIM, you also don't need to purchase another phone if you have a second phone number app. It saves the stress of carrying around multiple phones, too, so you can two numbers with just one phone. 

Plus, you can use the same app on all connected devices.

Factors to consider when choosing a second phone number app

If you've finally decided to get a second phone number app, make sure you keep in mind the following:

Cost

While the apps are free to download, you usually need to subscribe to the service. So when choosing an app, make sure the pricing plans are reasonable and suit your use.

Also, make sure to check if you'll be charged more for longer calls so that you know the budget you should keep aside for the second number.  

Access

The second phone number app you choose should allow you to make calls without going through a lengthy registration process.

Features

It's better to opt for an app that provides additional features apart from another number that allows you to make messages and calls. These features can boost your business communication. Examples include professional voicemail, auto-reply, and the ability to route calls and automate online requests, especially if you're an online business.   

Another great feature is the app's ability to enhance customer interactions and create lists. This helps save time and improves customer engagement. 

But keep in mind that too many features can make the app super complex to operate. So make sure you only choose features that are useful for your business. 

Numbers you can call

Make sure you check the phone numbers and networks you can call with the app. This is because some apps allow you to call only local numbers.  

Customer support

Finally, good customer support is also important. You should be able to talk to the customer service team without any delays in case you need help with something.

Customer reviews

Before downloading a second phone number app, make sure you read what real users have to say about its functionality and features. For instance, some apps lack a backup feature so in case you delete and reinstall those, you will lose your phone number as well as your messaging history and contacts.  

Some apps also have strict terms of use so if your activities are flagged as spam, your number can be blocked. So make sure you read customer reviews to know what to expect from the app.

Conclusions

Second phone number apps have a number of benefits. But you need to be careful when choosing one. Some apps come with a trial period or free versions so you can try them out before buying them. This makes sure you don't have to keep using a problematic app that doesn't suit your needs.