Linphone vs Phoner

Linphone combines VoIP voice and video calling, instant messaging, and videoconferencing in one application. It uses SIP and SIP SIMPLE to interoperate with IP-PBXs, proxies, SBCs, and other SIP systems. Calling features include HD audio and video, call forwarding, concurrent calls, recording, DTMF, and Bluetooth headset support. Its Flexisip or SaaS conferencing option supports meetings with up to 50 participants and screen sharing. Messaging features depend on setup: Flexisip supports group chats, file sharing, read receipts, reactions, voice messages, and ephemeral messages; SIP SIMPLE provides basic one-to-one messaging with third-party accounts. Security features include SIP/TLS, SRTP, SRTP-DTLS, ZRTP, end-to-end encryption for exchanged media, and post-quantum encryption using CRYSTALS-Kyber. Flexisip can be hosted on premises and connected to an existing SIP server for group messaging and videoconferencing. Linphone is open source under GNU GPLv3, with proprietary licensing available for closed-source modifications. The app is available on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and web, with API and self-hosted options. Its free SIP service is for individual users and has no guaranteed support; paid support and maintenance are available by contacting the company.

Phoner adds temporary or ongoing second phone numbers to an existing mobile device, allowing calls and texts without sharing a personal number. It supports domestic and international calling, private texts, photos and videos, including international messages. Users can choose customizable area and country codes, and the service advertises unlimited temporary numbers. Call forwarding, routing and recording are included, with recordings stored on a mobile device or computer. A web platform allows texting from a computer, alongside Android and iOS access. The maker highlights startups, small businesses, education, logistics, real estate and delivery services as business uses. A limited free account supports calling and texting, but restricts the number of contacts and texts. A separate three-day trial is advertised for a more permanent number. Plans include $9.99 a month for Alternate Number Monthly or Second Phone Number Monthly, plus one-time credit packs from 2.99 USD. Emergency calling is not supported.