VoIP services are becoming increasingly popular in recent years. In fact, the industry made over $76 billion in 2015 alone. Taking note that most users of VoIP or wifi phone systems are businesses, here are five facts about VoIP technology that you may not have known.

The first VoIP call was made in 1974
The ARPANET, the precursor to what we call the Internet today, was a network of connections available only to government and educational computers. A real-time voice sample was sent between the Informational Sciences Institute and Lincoln Lab using two computers directly. This was accomplished using an algorithm called “continuous variable slope delta (CVSD) modulation.” A few months later, the first two-way VoIP call took place.

The FCC wants to make Wi-Fi available to all Americans for free
From privacy advocates, free market supporters, and consumer advocates, just about everyone has something to say about free government wifi. If this does indeed become a reality, people will able to make free calls using VoIP features over wifi.

VoIP to VoIP calls are free
When two callers use VoIP to call each other using the same VoIP provider, the calls are completely free. This is true no matter the distance, length of time, or who makes the call. This allows families, friends, and businesses to communicate around the world at no extra cost.

VoIP services can be used on your smartphone
Many communication networks with VoIP technology have a mobile app for smartphones. Simply download the app, sign into your account with that provider, and begin making calls from a wireless Internet access point. When you use this service, your VoIP number will display, not your actual cell phone number. Mobile VoIP is expected to reach 1 billion users by 2018.

Never miss a call again
Many companies that offer VoIP services have a call forwarding option to reduce chances of missing phone calls. You have the ability to set up other phones, including your mobile phone and landlines, to receive incoming calls. This feature allows you to take calls from your office anywhere you are.

Each day, over 11 million meetings occur in the United States. Many of these meetings use VoIP technology to make calls. Now that you are aware of the many benefits of VoIP, you will begin to become more productive in your own life.