Voice over Internet Protocol

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a calling method that converts voice into data and sends it over an internet connection instead of a phone line.

Unlike a regular phone call, which sends voice signals directly through a dedicated phone line, VoIP breaks voice into small data packets, sends them over the internet, and reassembles them into sound on the receiving end. Free call features in messenger apps and internet phones used in offices both work this way.

More recently, AI voice assistants and chatbots that answer or make calls on behalf of people also run on this technology. Because voice can be transmitted anywhere with an internet connection, VoIP has become the foundation for many services where AI holds real-time, phone-like conversations.