WebRTC is an emerging standard developed by the W3C consortium. The idea behind this standard is to give web browsers the capability of providing real-time communications using simple Javascript APIs, so users do not have to download or install a plug-in. This capability has opened up new opportunities for developers to create web-based applications that offer audio and video communications in real-time.
The next step in the evolution of WebRTC is IP phones that use this technology. There are many advantages that come with using WebRTC for phones. Firstly, it eliminates transcoding, so calls tend to be faster and have a better quality. This elimination of transcoding has been possible because VoIP phone manufacturers are providing native support to the OPUS codec. As a result, many processing intensive tasks are moved away from the servers and clouds of service providers, which means, the cost of operations also goes down.
Secondly, and more importantly, a WebRTC phone moves the processing to a separate device that does not involve either the PC or the LAN. As a result, customers have the option to use their existing PCs and PBX systems, and at the same time, they can reap the benefits of IP phones merely by installing a thin client. This option is helpful for many small businesses because they do not have to invest large amounts of money to upgrade their infrastructure.
For the customers, the advantage with WebRTC-enabled phones is that they can make or receive video calls either on their mobile phones or on their desktop computers. Moreover, they will be able to share their web experiences with family and friends on the other side of the world, provided they use a desktop PC or mobile phone too.
These initiatives are only the tip of the iceberg. As WebRTC adoption increases, the possibilities for communication will be endless.
Edited by
Adam Brandt
