5 Common Issues with Business VoIP Mobile Apps and How to Fix Them
Have you ever struggled with dropped calls, confusing app settings, or trouble staying connected while working remotely?
If so, you’re not alone. While Mobile UCaaS apps have revolutionized how we communicate—allowing employees to work seamlessly from anywhere—they’re not without their hiccups. For many businesses, the promise of flexibility and efficiency can sometimes be overshadowed by technical issues, user frustration, or integration challenges.
At TeleCloud, we designed our mobile app with your business needs in mind—focusing on simplicity, reliability, and ease of use. Even the best technology can face challenges, which is why we address potential issues upfront and provide clear solutions to keep your communication running smoothly.
Whether it’s call quality issues, usability frustrations, or feature limitations, these problems can seem like deal-breakers—but they don’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll explore five common issues users face with Mobile UCaaS apps and provide practical solutions to fix them, so you can keep your team connected and productive.
Are you experiencing challenges with your mobile communication app? Talk to a telecom expert to explore better solutions.
1. Call Quality Issues
Call quality is the most common problem users face with Mobile UCaaS apps. Symptoms like choppy audio, robotic-sounding voices, or one-way audio often stem from poor network connections.
Why It Happens:
- Wi-Fi Problems: Even strong Wi-Fi signals can cause trouble if the network isn’t configured to prioritize voice traffic. Firewalls on guest networks, for example, may block or slow VoIP data.
- LTE Limitations: Cellular networks treat app-based calls as data traffic, which is often deprioritized compared to native phone calls.
How to Fix It:
- Switch Networks: If you’re experiencing call issues on Wi-Fi, try switching to LTE—or vice versa. This can help pinpoint the source of the problem.
- Optimize Wi-Fi: Use business-grade Wi-Fi with Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize voice traffic. Avoid guest or public Wi-Fi whenever possible.
- Leverage eSIM Technology: An eSIM can route app-based calls through your carrier’s native voice network, ensuring better prioritization and call quality.
Example:
One of our clients, a sales team working remotely, struggled with robotic audio on their app. By enabling QoS settings on their office Wi-Fi and advising remote workers to switch to LTE when Wi-Fi was unreliable, they eliminated call quality complaints and improved team productivity.
2. App Usability Challenges
The ease of use of a mobile app can make or break the user experience. If the app is clunky, confusing, or doesn’t feel intuitive, employees may struggle to use it effectively.
Why It Happens:
- Poorly designed interfaces that don’t resemble familiar mobile operating systems like iOS or Android.
- Hidden or hard to find key features, such as a dial pad or corporate directory.
How to Fix It:
- Choose an Intuitive App: Look for apps designed with simplicity in mind. For example, The TeleCloud Pro App mirrors the layout and functionality of popular mobile platforms.
- Provide Onboarding Resources: Train employees on the app’s features and navigation. A quick onboarding session can make a huge difference.
- Update Regularly: Keep the app up to date, as updates often improve usability and address user feedback.
3. App Permissions Not Configured Properly
When setting up an app, it’s common to deny certain permissions without realizing their importance (I have definitely done it myself). This can cause critical functions like speakerphone, voicemail, or call handling to stop working with no warning.
Why It Happens:
- Users may not understand why permissions (e.g., microphone, speaker, contacts) are required.
- Denied permissions can block essential features without providing clear feedback.
How to Fix It:
1. Review App Permissions: Go into your phone’s settings and ensure the app has access to the microphone, speaker, camera, and contacts.- On iOS: Go to Settings > [App Name] > Permissions.
- On Android: Navigate to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Permissions.
3. Set Up Permissions During Onboarding: Walk new users through enabling necessary permissions as part of their app setup.
4. Limited Integration with Business Features
Some apps only handle basic call functionality, neglecting advanced features like SMS messaging, visual voicemail, or real-time user availability. This limits productivity and might frustrate employees who need these tools.
Why It Happens:
- Some providers prioritize basic call functionality but neglect advanced features.
- Poorly integrated apps may lack support for key PBX capabilities.
How to Fix It:
- Choose a Comprehensive App: Ensure your provider offers a fully integrated app that includes essential features like SMS, voicemail transcription, and availability indicators.
- Verify Compatibility: Confirm that the app integrates seamlessly with your PBX system and other business tools like CRMs.
- Test Before Rolling Out: Pilot the app with a small group to ensure all features work as expected before full deployment.
If your current mobile UCaaS app lacks critical features or integration, start by identifying the gaps and contacting your provider to explore updates or fixes. If the app still falls short, consider switching to a provider with fully integrated solutions. While transitioning may seem challenging, a good provider can simplify the process and ensure your team’s communication needs are met.
5. Differences Between Mobile App and Desk Phone Usability
Desk phones often come with physical buttons for functions like call parking and transferring, but mobile apps require different workflows. This can confuse users who are accustomed to desk phone layouts.
Why It Happens:
- Mobile apps don’t have physical buttons, requiring users to rely on star codes or navigate additional menus.
- Some advanced PBX features may not translate seamlessly to a mobile interface.
How to Fix It:
- Provide Quick-Reference Guides: Create cheat sheets or documentation that explain app workflows for common tasks like parking and retrieving calls.
- Train Users on Star Codes: If the app relies on Star Codes for advanced functions, ensure users are familiar with them.
- Encourage Feedback: Collect feedback from employees to identify usability gaps and address them in future updates.
Proactive Tips to Prevent Common Mobile App Issues
- Keep the App Updated: App updates often fix bugs and improve functionality. Regularly check for updates to ensure you’re using the latest version.
- Test Network Connections: Experiment with both Wi-Fi and LTE to determine which provides the most reliable performance for your app.
- Engage Your Provider: Reach out to your provider for troubleshooting or guidance on advanced app features.
- Optimize Onboarding: Set users up for success by walking them through permissions, workflows, and app features during onboarding.
Overcoming Challenges for Seamless Mobile Communication
Mobile UCaaS apps have revolutionized how businesses communicate, offering unmatched flexibility and convenience. However, like any tool, they can encounter challenges. By addressing common issues like call quality, usability, permissions, and integration, you can turn potential obstacles into opportunities to improve your team’s experience and productivity.
At TeleCloud, we’re dedicated to creating solutions that make communication easier and more reliable for businesses of all sizes. We’ve built TeleCloud Pro Mobile to address these challenges, but we understand that every business is unique. If you’re ready to explore how to optimize your mobile communication, we’re here to help.
Have questions or need guidance? Contact us today and discover how TeleCloud Pro can help your team communicate seamlessly, wherever they are.
