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Comparisons6 min read

Call Switching vs Call Flipping

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Have you ever been stuck on an important call at your desk but needed to move around? Or did you need to transfer a call to a colleague without disconnecting? This is where "call flipping" and "call switching" come in handy.

 

Call flipping allows you to seamlessly push an ongoing call to another device, perhaps to your mobile as you leave the office. On the other hand, call switching lets you transfer the call to your destination phone without hanging up, ensuring the client is always attended to.

 

This blog will explore these two essential features to show how they can help you manage calls more effectively and keep your business running smoothly.


What is Call Switching?

Call switching is a telecommunication feature that allows users to pull ongoing calls from a source device to the destination device without interrupting a call. It is also called pulling, where the designated device pulls a call from the source device.

 

Practical example of Call Switching: 


An office worker receives a call on their desk phone but realizes the call needs to be handled by another department. They use call switching to transfer the call to the appropriate extension without the caller needing to dial again.

How does Call Switch work?

Call switches are initiated from the destined device, where a user pulls the call and activates it through an OTP verification process. Upon successful call transfer, the call switch process ends.

 

For further information, here’s a detailed overview of how the call switch works:

 

  • Initiation: The user initiates the call-pulling process from the destination to the source device.
  • Activation: The call switch activation process may differ with different service providers. The user may need to access specific menu options or dial an OTP number to activate the call-switching feature.
  • Transfer: Once the call switch feature activates, it suggests the user transfer the call from the source device to the destination device.
  • Continuation: After the call is switched from the source to the destination device, the user can continue to talk from another device. The operation is quick, and the client on the other end needs to know more about the call switch.

What is Call Flipping?

Call flipping is a feature that allows users to transfer an ongoing call from one device to another. It is also known as Call Pushing, which is pretty similar to call switching. However, in call flipping, the user initiates the process by pushing the call from the source or original device to the destination device.

 

Practical example of Call Flipping: 
The office worker is on a call at their desk phone but needs to leave the office. They flip the call to their mobile phone and continue the conversation as they head out, without hanging up and redialing.

How Does Call Flip Work?

Call flipping involves transferring the active calls from the source device to the destination device, which the users can choose. It is also verified by the OTP code numbers.

Here's a step-by-step explanation of how call flipping typically works:

 

  • Initiation: The user starts the call-flipping process from the source device where the call is currently active.
  • Activation: A call flip's activation process is similar to that of a call switch. The user may need to access specific menu options or dial an OTP number to activate the call-flipping feature.
  • Selection of Destination Device: After activating the call flipping feature, the user must select the destination device and transfer the call. This device could be another mobile device, laptop, PC, tab, etc.
  • Transfer: Once the destination device is selected, the call-flipping feature instructs the system to transfer the call from the source device to the chosen destination device.
  • Continuation: The call is successfully transferred to the destination device, allowing the user to continue the conversation without interruption. Now, the user can talk from the next device.

 

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What Makes Call Switching Different from Call Flipping?

The significant difference between call switching and call flipping lies in their functionalities. Even though these telecommunication features are used for communication management, their working mechanism is different.

 

For example, call switching or pulling is a technique where the user initiates the process from the destination device.

 

Call flipping, or call pushing, is a feature the user initiates from their source device by selecting the destination device and flipping the call.

 

Factors 

Call Switching

Call Flipping

Business Needs

Suitable for systematic call routing in large businesses or call centers.Ideal for smaller companies or individuals that require flexibility in call management.

Employee Mobility

It is less relevant because it primarily focuses on call routing within a system.More beneficial for mobile workers or those needing to switch devices frequently.

Technology

Requires a communication system that supports call routing and transfer features.Requires compatible devices and communication tools that support seamless call transfer between devices.

User-friendliness

It may require training for employees to understand call routing rules and system usage.Typically intuitive and user-friendly, it allows users to transfer calls with ease.

Costs

It may involve initial setup costs for implementing call routing systems or software.It is generally more cost-effective as it leverages existing communication devices and systems.

Similarities Between Call Switching and Call Flipping

Call switching and Call flipping are distinct in their functionalities and use cases. However, some factors, like seamless communication and enhanced flexibility, are similar.
 

similarities between call switching and call flipping

Flexible

Both call switching and flipping are designed to provide flexibility in handling phone calls. They allow users to change how they are connected to a call without disrupting ongoing conversations.

VoIP Dependency

Both call switching and call flipping rely on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems to function. They wouldn't work with traditional landlines.

Minimal Interruption

Both features aim to minimize interruptions during the call. Users can switch or flip calls without significant pauses, delays, or disruptions, continuing the call. Call Switching and Call flipping are essential for customer service and other professional interactions where call quality impacts the user's impression.

📖 You may also read: How to Forward Calls on Android? 

Wrapping up

Call pulling and flipping offer valuable solutions for managing live calls in telecommunications. While call pulling, the user initiates the transfer from the destination device, whereas call flipping starts from the source device.

 

Call pulling and pushing prioritize seamless communication, ensuring uninterrupted conversations, whether routing incoming calls or transferring active calls between devices. Additionally, they provide enhanced flexibility, allowing users to adapt to their communication needs efficiently, regardless of location or preferred device.

 

Despite this difference, both prioritize seamless communication and enhance user flexibility. They ensure uninterrupted conversations and allow users to efficiently adapt to their communication needs. Their choice depends on business requirements, mobility, technology infrastructure, user experience, and cost considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can I perform call pulling/ pushing?

There is no limit to the number of calls pulled/pushed while making a call.

Does the OS of my device impact call pulling/ pushing?

Not all the tasks are performed under a VoIP phone system, so it does not impact your device's OS while performing call pull and push.

How long does it take for a call to switch/flip?

Call switching/flipping happens in a fraction of a second. This process is performed efficiently so that the user can continue the call from the new device immediately without interruption.


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