# Unified Communications
> Integration of voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools into a single platform

Unified Communications (UC) merges voice, video, messaging, and collaboration into one platform.

## What is Unified Communications?
Unified Communications (UC) is an approach that integrates multiple communication channels — voice calls, video conferencing, instant messaging, presence, email, and file sharing — into a single, cohesive platform. The goal is to streamline workflows and allow users to communicate seamlessly across channels.

## UC vs. UCaaS
UC refers to the concept and can be deployed on-premise or in the cloud. [UCaaS](/voip-glossary/ucaas/) (Unified Communications as a Service) is the cloud-delivered model, offered on a subscription basis. Both aim to consolidate communication tools and reduce silos.

## UC for service providers
Service providers can offer UC capabilities through branded [softphone](/voip-glossary/softphone/) apps that combine voice, video, and messaging. [Acrobits Cloud Softphone](/cloud-softphone/) provides the client-side platform for delivering UC experiences under a provider's own brand.

## Related Terms
- [UCaaS](/voip-glossary/ucaas/)
- [Softphone](/voip-glossary/softphone/)