How does VoIP pricing work? What does a VoIP system cost?

Business phone systems used to be straightforward. Companies would buy their equipment, pay for each phone line, and watch costs increase as they grew. But things have changed. Now with teams working remotely, customers around the world, and businesses needing to scale quickly, those old systems can’t keep up.

This is why VoIP matters today. It’s more than just a way to make calls for less money. It’s about having a phone system that grows when your business grows, keeps everyone connected no matter where they work, and adapts to what your company needs instead of forcing you to adapt to it.

Getting the most from VoIP requires understanding a few important things. In this guide, we’ll walk through VoIP pricing in clear terms anyone can understand. We’ll cover all the cost factors you should know about and share practical advice to help you choose a system that fits your budget while supporting your business as it grows and changes.

How VoIP Pricing Actually Works

Pricing a VoIP system isn’t like buying office chairs or laptops. With traditional purchases, you pay once and you’re done. But VoIP costs shift and scale based on how your business operates day-to-day.

The final number on your bill comes down to four real-world factors:

• Who’s using the system? A 10-person startup needs something completely different than a 200-employee call center. Remote teams, frontline staff, managers, and executives all have different needs that affect cost.
• Where do your calls go? Local calls, international numbers, toll-free lines have different pricing. Some providers bundle them, while others charge per minute or per line.

• What does your system handle? Basic calling, video meetings or advanced call routing? The more your phone system does, the more pricing models come into play.

• How do you plan to manage it? Do you need 24/7 support, mobile apps or integrations with tools like Salesforce? These “extras” are important parts of your business communication systems that affect the cost difference between plans.

The key is understanding that VoIP isn’t one-size-fits-all. A great system mirrors how your company works, not the other way around. In the next sections, we’ll break down exactly what goes into these costs so you can find the perfect fit.

Essential VoIP Setup Costs

Transitioning to VoIP requires some upfront hardware and configuration decisions, but it’s not as daunting as it sounds, especially when working with cloud-based providers. At its simplest, all you need is a stable internet connection, compatible devices (like IP phones or softphones), and a VoIP service plan. That said, the setup process can include a few more moving parts that impact your initial investment.

VoIP Phones

You can use IP desk phones, softphones (apps you install on a computer or mobile phone), and headsets. Some businesses may need extra equipment like routers or firewalls that are built to handle voice traffic.

Installation & setup fees

Getting started might include things like adding users to the system, setting up call flows, applying call rules, or linking VoIP with tools you already use. Some providers offer help with this for free, while others charge depending on how complicated your setup is.

Number porting

If you want to keep your current phone numbers, you’ll likely pay a one-time fee. It can take a few days or even weeks, depending on where you are and which provider you’re using.

User training

Even the simplest systems require some onboarding. Whether it’s self-guided tutorials or hands-on training sessions, this can be a cost in both time and productivity. Whether you are using a bespoke solution or a highly popular platform, it’s good to have access to dedicated support or resources to make full use of your system.

Tip: Not every VoIP setup looks the same. It can depend on how much of your old phone system you’re keeping (if any). You’ll also need to think about security, and local regulations around compliance. In some areas, VoIP services or number porting aren’t fully supported, which can be a problem for companies with remote teams. If that’s the case, it’s important to work with a provider who can help you find a safe and legal way to make it work.

All of these are part of your setup, not necessarily your ongoing costs, but they’ll affect how smooth your transition is and whether you’re maximizing your investment from day one.

Variable costs in VoIP

Once your foundation is ready, your ongoing costs will depend on how your VoIP service is structured. These costs can change based on how many users you have, how your calls are routed, and which tools or features your business relies on.

Subscription fees

With most, simple hosted PBX services, the subscription fee gives you access to the system that runs your core VoIP functions. This includes call handling, voicemail, admin controls, and basic support. These fees may be billed monthly or annually and providers may offer pricing flexibility for longer-term commitments.

Many platforms offer access to their platforms in tiers, ranging from basic calling go more advanced packages that include call queues, analytics, or integrations.

Per-User or Per-Line Charges

A separate component of VoIP pricing is your per-user or per-line charges.

• Per-user charges apply to each person who needs their own login, extension, voicemail, or app access
• Per-line charges apply to the number of simultaneous calls or active channels your system can handle, regardless of how many users are assigned.

For some companies, this cost is separate from the subscription fee described earlier. Other providers may bundle platform access into the charge per user, especially if they offer an all-in-one solution.

It’s important to note that not every user needs their own dedicated line, and the number of lines you purchase doesn’t always match the number of user licenses. Your setup depends on a few key factors, like how many concurrent calls your team expects, whether multiple users will share a DID (Direct Inward Dialing Number), or conversely, if a specific user (like a CEO) needs multiple DIDs for a different purpose.

In larger organizations, all these factors — users, lines, call volume, and call handling preferences — are considered together to build a more optimized and cost-efficient system.

Metered calling-rates

Most VoIP plans include unlimited local or in-country calls, which covers the majority of day-to-day use for many teams. For businesses that place international calls, use toll-free numbers, or have higher outbound traffic, additional charges may apply. These are known as metered rates and are billed by the minute based on destination and call type.

Some providers offer bundles or reduced international rates to help manage these costs. Reviewing your typical call activity makes it easier to choose the plan or calling package that fits your communication needs.

Feature Add-Ons & Integrations

VoIP services often come with core features like voicemail, caller ID, and call forwarding. Beyond that, many platforms offer extra tools to support more advanced workflows. These can include:

• Call recording and cloud storage
• Voicemail-to-text transcription
• CRM or helpdesk integrations
• Analytics dashboards
• SMS and fax capabilities

These extras may be included in higher-tier plans or offered as optional add-ons. If your business relies on specific tools or integrations, it helps to know what’s built into your plan and what can be added to tailor the system to your needs.

Wrapping Up: What Smart VoIP Planning Looks Like

VoIP is a cheaper phone system. It’s also a smarter one.

The value of upgrading to VoIP comes when your setup matches how your business actually works, not just how many people you have on the team.

Understanding how VoIP pricing works helps you avoid unexpected costs and build a system that grows with you. Whether you’re just starting out, expanding across regions, or replacing an outdated setup, knowing what goes into the price—subscription, users, lines, features—makes all the difference.

VoIP gives you the tools to scale and connect. As you compare providers or plan your setup, careful consideration and planning will give you flexibility, transparency, and the ability to adapt matter just as much as price.

You’ve got a growing business, a side hustle, or a job that keeps you on the move. Maybe you’re a salesperson who takes late calls, a freelancer juggling multiple clients, or someone managing a crew from different locations.

You want to stay available, but not at the expense of your personal space. And you believe there must be a cleaner way to manage two lines on one device. You’re right. It exists. And it’s seamless.

Do I need a business phone number?

Yes—if you’re doing any kind of professional work, having a separate number for your business is a smart move.

It’s not just about looking more professional, it’s about creating boundaries. A business number keeps your work identity separate from your personal one. You’ll thank yourself when it’s time to track customer questions, revisit conversations, or just disconnect after hours.

Maintain good housekeeping.

It also protects your privacy and your customers’. Clean record-keeping and separate channels make your business look more credible and trustworthy. You’re not just someone texting from a personal number anymore—this is part of your system now.

Even if you’re solo, treating your communications like a business makes a big difference in how you’re perceived and how you operate.

Should I get a business phone?

It depends—but probably not.

Before buying a second phone, first identify what you’re really trying to solve. Do you need a second physical device or just a second identity for your calls and texts?

If your goal is to separate personal and work calls, track conversations more easily, or set up a professional voicemail, all of that can be done with a virtual phone number or app. You don’t need extra hardware, you need smarter infrastructure.

Unless your business absolutely requires a separate physical phone (think logistics teams, call centers, or on-site crews), most people just need a second number—not a second device.

So what’s the better option? Let’s get into it.

3 Ways to Get a Business Phone Number on Your Personal Cell

When choosing how to add a business phone number to your personal phone, think of it as a sliding scale. At one end, you have straightforward, affordable solutions perfect for freelancers or side hustlers. At the other, you have powerful, feature-rich systems that larger businesses or growing teams need.

Option 1: Use a Forwarding Number

This is the most basic setup. If you’re just starting or keeping things small, a simple forwarding number might be all you need. Calls to your business number are simply forwarded to your personal phone—no extra apps, no complexity.

You get a separate phone number (usually from a service provider or app), and any calls to that number automatically forward to your personal phone. You’ll still receive calls as normal, but you might not always know it’s a business call unless the service tells you on-screen or with a special ringtone.

Great for: Solopreneurs, freelancers, very small businesses

Benefits:

• Minimal setup
• Low or no cost
• Easy to manage for beginners

Limitations:

• Limited control over call handling
• Personal number may appear on outgoing calls
• Hard to scale as your business grows

Example tools: Google Voice (free in the US), Grasshopper, Line2

Option 2: Business Phone Apps (Cloud-based Second Number)

If you’re ready for a bit more control and flexibility, but still want something lightweight, this second option might be for you.

This is the most popular option for freelancers, small businesses, and consultants. Apps like Google Voice, Microsoft Teams Phone, Zoom Phone let you create a separate number that works through your internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

You get the ease of a simple app with the power of professional features—like voicemail, separate caller ID, and even call routing—without needing a second SIM or device.

Great for: Freelancers, small businesses, early-stage startups

Benefits:

• Affordable monthly pricing
• Intuitive and user-friendly
• Scales easily with your team
• Accessible across multiple devices (phone, laptop, etc.)

Limitations:

• Limited advanced customizations
• May not fully integrate with all business tools

This option hits the sweet spot for most small-to-medium-sized businesses.

Option 3:  Cloud-Hosted PBX (Full-featured phone systems)

 At the most advanced end of the scale, you have cloud-hosted phone systems (often called cloud PBX systems). These offer everything you’d expect from a traditional enterprise-grade phone system, like extensions for multiple employees, call queues, auto-attendants, and deep integrations with CRM and productivity tools.

You’ll still use your existing devices (smartphones, laptops), but now they’re part of a sophisticated, cloud-powered communication network.

Great for: Growing businesses, multi-location teams, SMEs, or even larger enterprises

Benefits:

• Powerful call routing and management
• Advanced integrations (CRM, analytics, support systems)
• Scalable for growing businesses

Limitations:

• Higher monthly cost
• More involved setup process
• May feel complex for small or solo operations

This is ideal if you’re ready to scale or have a team that needs robust communication management.

Choosing What’s Right For you

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—only what fits your business right now.

Some prioritize convenience—just getting a separate line that works. Others focus on visibility, control, or intelligent call handling. And for many, availability across multiple devices or remote teams is essential. The right solution depends on how you weigh these priorities, and what kind of future you’re planning for.

At ULAP, we’ve worked with businesses across the board: from small companies testing out their first virtual business number, to growing companies ready for a fully hosted cloud PBX with call queues and compliance needs. Most enterprises will eventually move toward a cloud-hosted PBX—but every business has its own starting point, and every team imagines phone system management a little differently.

While our recommendations always lean toward privacy, data security, and long-term scalability, we don’t push businesses into systems they don’t need. We’ll always recommend the most cost-efficient setup that gives you the flexibility to scale when you’re ready—whether that’s a simple app, a hybrid configuration, or a full-featured phone system from day one.

If you’re not sure where to start, we’ll meet you where you are—and guide you toward where you want to be.

Final Thoughts

If you’re building something—even if it’s just a weekend hustle—take the time to set this up right.

A dedicated business phone number gives you control, flexibility, and peace of mind. It helps you stay organized, makes you look more credible, and gives your customers a better experience.

With today’s cloud-based systems, setting it up is affordable and beginner-friendly. And when your business grows, your phone setup can grow with it—without skipping a beat.

You don’t need a second phone. Just a smarter number.

Efficient communication systems are crucial for a modern business’ success. One solution that has gained popularity among businesses of all sizes is the hosted PBX system. But what exactly is a hosted PBX, and why should your business consider making the switch? This article covers the benefits of a hosted PBX, including its features, flexibility, and cost savings.

Understanding Hosted PBX Systems

A hosted PBX (Private Branch Exchange) or cloud based PBX phone system is a virtual phone system that allows businesses to manage their phone calls over the internet. Unlike traditional PBX systems that need on-site hardware, a hosted cloud PBX phone system uses VoIP and SIP to operate over the internet. It is maintained by a third-party provider, reducing the need for physical infrastructure and maintenance. This managed PBX makes it a popular choice for businesses looking to streamline their communication processes.

Evolution of PBX Systems

The evolution from traditional to cloud PBX systems marks a significant shift in communication technology. Traditional PBX systems were once the backbone of business communication, requiring extensive hardware and dedicated lines. As businesses looked for better solutions, cloud-hosted PBX systems emerged, using cloud technology to enable smooth communication without bulky equipment. This evolution not only modernized communication but also paved the way for more agile business operations.

How Hosted PBX Works

Hosted PBX systems operate over the internet, utilizing VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology. Calls are routed through data centers managed by the provider, ensuring high-quality voice transmission. This setup eliminates the need for on-site maintenance, allowing businesses to focus on core activities. By using the internet for communication, businesses can integrate various digital tools into their hosted PBX phones to enhance productivity and collaboration.

Key Components of Hosted PBX

A hosted PBX system comprises several key components that work together to facilitate communication. These include the virtual PBX server, which handles call routing and features; IP phones or softphones, which let users make calls; and the internet connection, which acts as the communication channel. Providers also offer various features such as auto-attendants and voicemail-to-email, enhancing the overall user experience.

Hosted PBX Benefits

Cost-Savings with Hosted PBX

A hosted cloud PBX costs significantly less in the long run, resulting in savings for your business.

Reduced Hardware and Maintenance Costs

One of the primary advantages of a hosted PBX is the elimination of expensive on-site hardware. Traditional PBX systems require significant investment in servers and physical phone lines, whereas hosted PBX phone systems operate in the cloud. This not only reduces the initial setup cost but also minimizes ongoing maintenance expenses. Businesses can redirect these savings to other critical areas, such as employee training or marketing initiatives.

Flexible Pricing Plans

Hosted PBX providers offer a variety of pricing plans, allowing businesses to select a package that aligns with their needs and budget. Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, there is a plan that can cater to your specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that you only pay for the features and services you actually use. Moreover, as your business needs change, you can easily adjust your plan, ensuring continued cost-efficiency.

Lower Call Costs

With a hosted PBX, calls are made over the internet, often leading to lower call charges compared to traditional phone lines. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with high call volumes or those that frequently make long-distance or international calls. By reducing communication costs, businesses can allocate funds to other growth initiatives, enhancing their overall financial health.

Predictable Monthly Expenses

Hosted PBX systems offer predictable monthly expenses, making budget management easier for businesses. Traditional systems often incur unpredictable maintenance and upgrade costs, but hosted solutions typically include these in the monthly fee. This predictability allows businesses to plan their finances more effectively, reducing the risk of unexpected expenses that can disrupt cash flow.

Hosted PBX for small businesses also becomes much more feasible today as technology becomes more scalable.

Enhanced Features and Functionality

Advanced Call Management

Hosted PBX systems come equipped with a range of advanced call management features that can enhance your business operations. These include call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail-to-email, and auto-attendants. Such features ensure that your business never misses an important call and that customers have a seamless communication experience. Additionally, these features can be customized to align with specific business needs, providing a tailored communication solution.

Scalability and Flexibility

As your business grows, so do your communication needs. A hosted PBX system is highly scalable, allowing you to easily add or remove phone lines and features as required. This flexibility ensures that your phone system can adapt to the changing demands of your business without the need for costly upgrades. Whether you’re expanding your team or entering new markets, a hosted PBX can seamlessly accommodate your evolving needs.

Remote Work Capabilities

In today’s increasingly remote work environment, the ability to stay connected is more important than ever. Hosted PBX systems support remote work by allowing employees to access the phone system from any location with an internet connection. This ensures that your team can stay productive and connected, regardless of where they are working from. The system also integrates with mobile devices, enabling employees to maintain communication on the go.

Integration with Business Tools

Hosted PBX systems can be integrated with various business tools, such as CRM software and collaboration platforms. This integration enhances workflow efficiency by streamlining communication and data management. Employees can access customer information during calls or collaborate in real-time, improving both customer service and internal productivity. The seamless integration of tools creates a more cohesive work environment.

Reliability and Security

High Uptime and Redundancy

Hosted PBX providers typically offer high uptime guarantees and built-in redundancy to ensure that your phone system remains operational at all times. This means that your business can continue to communicate effectively, even in the event of a local power outage or network issue. Providers often have multiple data centers for hosted business PBX services, ensuring that your communication remains uninterrupted, regardless of local disruptions.

Enhanced Security Measures

Security is a top priority for hosted PBX providers. These systems are equipped with advanced security features, including encryption and secure data centers, to protect your business communications from potential threats. By choosing a reputable provider, you can ensure that your sensitive information remains safe and secure. Regular security updates and monitoring further enhance the protection of your communication infrastructure.

Disaster Recovery Capabilities

A hosted VoIP PBX offer robust disaster recovery capabilities, ensuring business continuity during unforeseen events. Providers often have backup servers and failover mechanisms in place to quickly restore service in the event of a disruption. This ensures that your business can maintain communication with clients and stakeholders, even during emergencies, safeguarding your reputation and operational stability.

Compliance with Industry Standards

Many hosted PBX providers comply with industry standards and regulations, ensuring that your communication system meets legal requirements. This compliance is particularly crucial for businesses in regulated industries, such as healthcare and finance, where data protection is paramount. By adhering to these standards, hosted PBX providers offer an added layer of assurance for your business communications.

Choosing the Right Hosted PBX Provider

When selecting providers, it’s important to consider factors such as pricing, features, and customer support in their hosted PBX plans. Research different providers and compare their cloud PBX services to find the one that best aligns with your business needs. Additionally, read reviews and seek recommendations from other businesses to ensure you choose reliable and reputable cloud PBX providers.

Evaluating Provider Reputation

The reputation of a hosted PBX provider can significantly impact your communication experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction. Online reviews, testimonials, and case studies can provide valuable insights into a provider’s performance and service quality. A reputable provider will have a history of delivering on their promises and maintaining strong customer relationships.

Assessing Customer Support

Customer support is a critical factor when choosing a virtual PBX company. Ensure that the provider offers comprehensive support options, including phone, email, and live chat. Consider the availability of support services, as 24/7 support can be crucial for businesses operating across different time zones. Responsive and knowledgeable support can quickly resolve issues, minimizing downtime and ensuring seamless communication.

Comparing Feature Sets

Different providers offer varying feature sets, so it’s essential to compare them carefully. Identify the features that are most important for your business and ensure that the provider can meet those needs. Consider scalability options, integration capabilities, and any additional services that may benefit your organization. A provider that offers a robust and customizable feature set can better support your business’s unique communication requirements.

Understanding Contract Terms

Before committing to hosted PBX services providers, thoroughly review their contract terms. Pay attention to details such as contract length, cancellation policies, and any hidden fees. Understanding these terms can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure that the provider aligns with your business’s long-term goals. A transparent and flexible contract can provide peace of mind and foster a positive partnership.

Conclusion

Switching to a hosted PBX solution can offer numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes. From cost savings and enhanced features to increased flexibility and security, hosted PBX systems are an ideal choice for modern businesses seeking to improve their communication processes. By understanding the advantages and selecting the right provider, your business can enjoy the many benefits of a hosted PBX system.

In conclusion, hosted PBX benefits are a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution for businesses looking to enhance their communication capabilities. By making the switch, your business can enjoy improved functionality, flexibility, and security, ensuring that you stay connected and competitive in today’s fast-paced world. Embracing this technology can lead to a more agile and responsive business environment, positioning your company for long-term success.

“The Overseas Call Was Not Good Quality”

Have you ever been on an overseas call where the audio was so poor that you felt like shouting across the ocean might’ve been more effective? If so, you’re not alone. Complaints about bad call quality, especially for international calls, are surprisingly common. But why does it happen, and how can it be fixed? Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Problem

When someone says, “The overseas call was not good quality,” they might be referring to several issues:

• Choppy Audio: Words or sentences cut in and out.
• Delays: Conversations feel out of sync, with awkward pauses between speaking and hearing a response.
• Distorted Sound: Voices sound muffled or robotic.
• Dropped Calls: The call disconnects unexpectedly.

These issues aren’t just frustrating; they can also harm business relationships, make important conversations difficult, and create a lot of misunderstandings.

Why Does Poor Quality Happen?

The root causes of poor international call quality can vary, but here are some common culprits:

• Network Latency: The time it takes for data to travel between two points. For international calls, signals often have to cross vast distances, sometimes bouncing between multiple data centers, which adds delay.
• Packet Loss: Data packets containing parts of the conversation may get lost en route, leading to choppy or incomplete audio.
• Bandwidth Issues: If either side of the call has a slow or congested internet connection, it can bottleneck the audio quality.
• Outdated Technology: Using old or incompatible hardware or software can limit the call’s performance.
• Carrier Interconnects: Many international calls involve multiple telecom providers working together. A problem with one carrier can ripple through and degrade the call quality.

How to Diagnose the Issue

Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to pinpoint the problem. Here are some steps to help:

1. Check Your Network: Is your internet connection stable? Run a speed test to check for issues like low upload/download speeds or high latency.
2. Ask About the Other Side: The problem might not be with your setup but with the other person’s network or device.
3. Note Patterns: Is the problem consistent across all calls or just to specific countries or numbers? Patterns can reveal whether the issue is tied to a specific carrier or region.
4. Test Your Equipment: Sometimes, a simple reboot of your router or switching to a different device can solve the issue.
5. Engage Your Service Provider: If the issue persists, contact your telecom provider and provide details about the call quality problem (time, location, and symptoms).

Practical Solutions

Once you’ve identified the possible cause, you can take steps to improve the quality of overseas calls:

Use a Reliable VoIP Service

Traditional phone lines rely on physical connections and old infrastructure, which can degrade call quality. Switching to a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service can offer better quality, especially if you use a provider with global reach and strong infrastructure.

Optimize Your Network

• Prioritize VoIP Traffic: Many routers allow you to enable Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize call traffic over other internet uses like streaming or downloads.
• Use a Wired Connection: Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also prone to interference. Plugging directly into your router can provide a more stable connection.
• Avoid Peak Times: Internet traffic spikes during certain hours, especially in residential areas. Scheduling calls outside of peak hours can improve performance.

→ Visit our cloud solution ULAP Application WAN to learn more.
ULAP Application WAN is designed to support global communications (including voice traffic) on an intelligent routing basis, choosing the best path so your call is stable and clear.

Upgrade Your Internet Plan or Choose a Global Telecom Partners

If your internet connection is consistently slow, upgrading to a higher-speed plan or switching to a more reliable ISP might make a big difference. Additionally, working with a global telecom partner that specializes in international communication can further improve call quality. Look for one that offers:

• Low latency and minimal packet loss.
• Direct interconnects with global carriers.
• Advanced features like adaptive codecs that adjust call quality in real time.

→ Did you know you could craft your own communications systems solution?
ULAP Networks offers connectivity, calling coverage, PSTN replacement, cloud PBX services and other vital components that support your full control over your business communications systems. We’re hold telecommunications licenses, so you can get competitive rates. Contact us to learn more.

Test Alternative Platforms

Apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or WhatsApp often provide higher-quality international calls than traditional phone lines, especially for video calls.

Regularly Update Software

Outdated apps or operating systems can lead to compatibility issues and bugs that degrade call quality. Always keep your devices and apps updated.

Preventing Future Problems

Now that you know how to address poor call quality, here are some tips to prevent it from happening in the first place:

• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check your network and devices for issues.
• Educate Your Team: If this is a recurring business issue, provide training on best practices for maintaining good call quality.
• Partner with Experts: Work with telecom providers or IT specialists who can proactively monitor and resolve issues before they escalate.
• Monitor Call Metrics: If you’re using VoIP for business, tools like call analytics can help identify trends and potential weak points in your system.

Conclusion

Bad call quality isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that can affect personal and professional relationships. Understanding why it happens and taking proactive steps can transform those frustrating, garbled calls into clear, seamless conversations.

The next time someone complains about a poor-quality overseas call, you’ll know exactly what to do. Whether it’s tweaking your network, switching providers, or simply upgrading your equipment, the right solution is often just a few steps away. With these tips in hand, you can ensure every call—no matter the distance—feels like you’re in the same room.