How WebRTC powers real-time communication

Legacy communication tools often make real-time voice and video feel clunky, requiring users to download plugins or install extra software. For developers, building these experiences used to mean relying on proprietary solutions that added unnecessary complexity and limited flexibility.

But expectations have changed: people now want streamlined, in-browser communication for video calls, support chats, and online collaboration. To meet those expectations, developers need a modern, open standard—and that’s where WebRTC comes in.

Built into all major browsers and standardized by the W3C and IETF, WebRTC empowers developers to integrate high‑quality, real‑time voice, video, and data directly into web and mobile applications without software or middleware. It’s rapidly gaining adoption, with the market projected to grow from 7.03 billion in 2024 to 94.07 billion by 2032.

In this post, we’ll explain what WebRTC is, how it works, and how you can start building with Telnyx to deliver seamless, embedded communication experiences.

What is WebRTC?

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a browser-native tech that powers real-time voice, video, and data sharing without the need for plugins or third-party software.

It’s built into all major browsers, standardized by the W3C and IETF, and supported by an active open-source community. WebRTC enables peer-to-peer connections that deliver low-latency, high-quality communication that’s ideal for video conferencing, voice calls, and collaborative applications.

How WebRTC works

WebRTC enables two devices—such as browsers, servers, or mobile apps—to establish a direct connection and exchange real-time audio, video, or data.

The connection process begins with a peer-to-peer setup, where devices discover each other and negotiate the best way to connect using ICE (Interactive Connectivity Establishment). ICE utilizes STUN and TURN servers to overcome network obstacles, such as NATs or firewalls.

Once a path is established, WebRTC captures media from the device using getUserMedia, which grants access to the user’s microphone, camera, or screen.

It's important to note that WebRTC handles only the media transport, not the signaling. Developers implement the signaling layer themselves.

Signaling is used to exchange connection metadata (such as session descriptions and network candidates) between devices before WebRTC sets up the peer-to-peer media stream. The result is a low-latency, high-quality connection that enables real-time voice, video, and data sharing—without requiring plugins or external software.

WebRTC vs SIP vs VoIP

To understand where WebRTC fits in the communications landscape, it helps to compare it with SIP and VoIP.

• VoIP (Voice over IP) is the broadest term. It refers to any voice communication over IP networks and includes both media transport and signaling. \

• SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is a signaling protocol commonly used in VoIP systems to set up, manage, and terminate sessions. \

Conversely, WebRTC focuses on transporting real-time media—voice, video, and data—directly between browsers and devices, without requiring plugins or third-party software. The table below summarizes how these technologies differ and complement each other:

While SIP and WebRTC serve distinct functions, they’re often used together in modern VoIP systems. SIP manages the signaling—initiating, modifying, and ending sessions—while WebRTC handles the media layer, enabling low-latency audio, video, and data in the browser. Combined, they provide the building blocks for seamless, real-time communication experiences across web and mobile apps.

Real world WebRTC use cases

WebRTC powers real-time communication in numerous industries. It improves workflows and enhances customer interactions. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common WebRTC use cases across industries.

In-browser softphones

Many organizations have replaced traditional desk phones with browser-native calling tools embedded directly into CRMs, help desks, or workforce management systems. Agents can make and receive calls without switching devices or leaving their workflow, increasing productivity and reducing hardware costs.

Embedded voice for SaaS

SaaS platforms are increasingly incorporating WebRTC-based voice and video features. Collaboration tools, customer support solutions, and productivity apps integrate real-time communications directly in their interfaces, keeping users engaged and eliminating the need for third-party software or plugins. Integrating these features directly into SaaS offerings enhances user satisfaction and streamlines operations, enabling businesses to deliver a more efficient experience to their customers.

Field operations and remote support

In industries that rely on field operations or remote support, WebRTC enables technicians and remote workers to connect instantly with experts or customers, regardless of location. By embedding voice and video into web and mobile apps, companies provide seamless, high-quality support in environments where traditional phones or computers may not be practical.

Modern contact centers and CX platforms

Cloud-based contact centers and customer experience (CX) platforms use WebRTC to deliver flexible, browser-native calling experiences. Agents can work from anywhere, using just their browser, while maintaining high call quality and access to backend systems. This flexibility is especially important as organizations adopt hybrid and remote work models, allowing teams to stay connected and responsive without relying on legacy hardware.

Build browser‑based real‑time apps with Telnyx

Most teams recognize the need for seamless, in-browser communication to meet user expectations, but building a reliable, low-latency solution can seem daunting.

That’s where Telnyx comes in.

With our WebRTC SDK and Voice API, you can embed real‑time voice, video, and data into your applications quickly without worrying about infrastructure. Developers gain advanced features, including real-time transcription, programmable call control, and call recording, all delivered over our private global network for consistently low latency and high quality.

Whether you’re replacing desk phones with browser‑based calling, powering remote support teams, or embedding softphones in your CRM, Telnyx gives you the tools and performance you need to build it your way—fast.