Introduction to OpenPhone
A complete guide to understanding OpenPhone, what makes it different, and how to get your team up and running in minutes
Overview
OpenPhone is a reliable, collaborative, and easy-to-use business communication system for small and medium-sized businesses. This guide will walk you through what makes OpenPhone different, how to get set up in minutes, and where to go next.Why OpenPhone?
If you’ve used business phones before — traditional desk phones or legacy VoIP systems — OpenPhone offers a big upgrade: Collaborative: Share numbers with your teammates, take calls and send texts together, and resolve issues faster as a team. Customizable: Tailor OpenPhone to fit your workflow. Set business hours, voicemail greetings, phone menus, auto-replies, and more. Convenient: Use OpenPhone on your desktop, mobile, or browser — no hardware required. Stay connected anywhere.
Get set up in 3 steps
1
Create your account
Start your free seven-day trial and choose your business phone number:
- Sign up for OpenPhone
- Select a local or toll-free number
- Customize your caller ID and phone number settings
2
Invite your team
Add team members to collaborate on customer communications:
- Go to Settings → Team
- Click Invite team members
- Assign access and roles
- They’ll receive an email to join your workspace
3
Download the apps
Use OpenPhone across all your devices:
- Download desktop apps
- Install for iOS or Android
- Or use the web app
Explore more features
Port your phone numbers
Bring your existing numbers to OpenPhone
Explore inboxes
Organize calls, messages, and voicemails
Team collaboration
Share numbers and respond together
Automation basics
Save time by automating routine tasks
FAQs
Do I need Internet for calling and texting?
Do I need Internet for calling and texting?
Yes, OpenPhone requires an internet connection. You can use WiFi, data, hotspot, or even forward calls to your personal number if needed.
Does OpenPhone use minutes from my phone plan?
Does OpenPhone use minutes from my phone plan?
No, OpenPhone uses your internet connection (WiFi or cellular data), not your carrier minutes.
What are the Internet requirements?
What are the Internet requirements?
A stable internet connection is enough. OpenPhone works even when traveling or roaming.
How much data does OpenPhone use?
How much data does OpenPhone use?
About 0.5 MB per minute of calling — similar to music streaming.
Do I need special hardware?
Do I need special hardware?
No hardware needed. OpenPhone works on your phone, tablet, or computer via an app.
How long is the free trial?
How long is the free trial?
OpenPhone offers a 7-day free trial. You can cancel anytime — and we’ll remind you before it’s over.
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Yes! You can port your existing numbers to OpenPhone. We handle the process for you - all you have to do is submit the porting request.
How many team members can I add?
How many team members can I add?
As many as you need. Each phone number requires a subscription, but shared numbers can be used at no extra cost.