What is a virtual SMS number?

A virtual number is a real mobile number that is not attached to a SIM card in a device but to your account. Messages that come in on it land in your dashboard or in your own system.

What it is for

Two things. First: receiving replies. If you send with a sender name, nobody can write back. With a virtual number they can.

Second: separating a channel from a person. Responses to a campaign or confirmations of appointments arrive on a number that belongs to your organisation and not to an employee who is on holiday tomorrow.

What it is not

Not a number to call, and not a replacement for your landline. It is a text channel.

When a shortcode suits better

If you expect people to send a keyword themselves in order to sign up, a short code is easier to remember and to communicate than a full number.