Browser Calling 101

WebRTC Calling Explained

Learn how browser-based calling works, why it matters for modern businesses, and how StartACall bridges WebRTC to the public phone network so you can call any phone number globally without installing apps.

How It Works
Browser Call DemoWebRTC Ready
No downloads. Works in Chrome, Safari, and Firefox.

What is WebRTC

WebRTC is an open standard that enables real-time audio and video communication inside the browser. It eliminates the need for plugins or native apps and gives developers low-latency access to microphone and camera streams.

Real-time Audio

High quality audio streaming with adaptive codecs, echo cancellation, and packet loss resilience for stable calls even on variable networks.

Peer Connections

Secure peer-to-peer connections with NAT traversal and secure DTLS encryption to keep voice data private and protected.

Browser First

No app installs required. Users join from modern browsers and start calling in seconds after granting permissions.

How StartACall Bridges WebRTC to PSTN

WebRTC handles the browser side. StartACall provides signaling, media relay, and a PSTN gateway using Twilio so you can place or receive calls to any phone number worldwide.

Signaling

We handle session setup and management so browsers can connect securely and quickly without user configuration.

Media Relay

Media servers optimize audio routing, ensure compatibility across networks, and provide recording or transcription hooks for AI features.

PSTN Gateway

We route calls to the public telephone network using Twilio so your browser calls reach any mobile or landline number worldwide.

Key Benefits for Businesses

WebRTC based calling simplifies operations, improves agent workflows, and unlocks AI capabilities that run during or after calls.

AI Agents and Copilot

Autonomous AI voice agents can handle inbound or outbound calls. Real-time copilot features transcribe conversations and surface suggested responses to agents during live calls.

OpenAI powered conversational flows
Deepgram speech recognition for accurate transcription

Virtual Numbers and Analytics

Purchase and manage phone numbers in over 190 countries and track call metrics and usage in real time through an intuitive dashboard.

Global coverage with local presence
Call duration, transcription, and analytics in real time

Frequently Asked Questions

Is WebRTC secure?

Yes. WebRTC uses strong encryption for media and signaling. StartACall also applies secure session management and best practices to protect calls and data.

Can I use WebRTC on mobile browsers?

Modern mobile browsers such as Chrome and Safari support WebRTC. For the best experience use the latest browser versions and grant microphone access.

How does transcription work?

StartACall integrates speech-to-text engines to transcribe calls in real time. Transcripts can power copilot suggestions or be stored for analytics and compliance.

Do I need Twilio?

StartACall uses Twilio on the backend to reliably bridge WebRTC sessions to the PSTN. You do not need a separate Twilio account to use StartACall.

Ready to try browser calling?

Create an account and start calling from your browser in seconds. No downloads, no complicated setup.