Virtual Office Featured Article

Will HTML5, WebRTC Reshape the Virtual Office?

December 13, 2013
By Michelle Amodio, TMCnet Contributor

The media is buzzing, or at least trying to create buzz, around HTML5 being the next wave for telephony communications. Browsing through tech journals would lead one to believe that HTML5 is the new standard that’s paving the way for video and audio communications, and to a degree, it’s true. But, it’s not 100 percent there just yet.


Nevertheless, software providers, like Vodia Networks, are tapping the power of HTML5 for audio playback features for recorded calls. The benefit here is, with HTML5, there is no need for additional software or plugins; audio files run natively in the Web browser.

Recorded calls are one feature among many when it comes to VoIP and VoIP services. Other providers like BrowserCalls are using WebRTC, which is transitioning to HTML5 technology, for HTML5-based VoIP calls. Previously, we’ve seen companies like Flashphoner rely on Flash for browser-based calls, but Flash is well on its way out.

Indeed, WebRTC goes beyond VoIP and video conferencing, with no plugins to download or install that may not be compatible with consumers’ browsers across desktop, mobile or tablet.

Imagine being able to shop online for a product and clicking on a product page where you can have a live video call with a customer service representative, who then shows you the gadget you are thinking of buying. That’s the power of WebRTC.

This bodes well for businesses who have virtual offices, as anyone can connect to the company so long as there is a browser connection. While mobile has made virtual work easier and more streamlined, Web-based communications can turn the browser into an additional VoIP endpoint. For specific types of businesses, this can cut down on, if not cut out entirely, the need for a physical brick-and-mortar office.

With WebRTC, virtual offices can further trim down travel budgets, increase collaboration, and offer new ways to host meetings.  By adding WebRTC, businesses can integrate remote, home and mobile technologies.




Edited by Blaise McNamee

View All