Persistent Call Notifications in Sleep/Low-Power Modes
Enhance RingCentral Desktop App for Call Notifications During Computer Sleep Mode
Currently, when a computer enters sleep mode (or other low-power states), the RingCentral desktop application ceases to function, resulting in missed calls. This is due to the operating system suspending network connections, application processes, and hardware activity to conserve power. Users who rely on the desktop app for critical communications may miss important calls if they briefly step away from their active workstation or if their computer automatically enters sleep mode after a period of inactivity. This creates a gap in communication availability and can lead to frustration and missed business opportunities.
Proposed Solution/Feature:
Implement a mechanism within the RingCentral desktop application that allows it to maintain a minimal level of network connectivity and process activity, specifically for the purpose of receiving and signaling incoming call notifications, even when the host computer is in a sleep or low-power state.
Technical Considerations (Optional, but helpful for developers):
This could potentially be achieved through:
"Wake-on-LAN" (WoL) Triggering (if applicable/feasible): While not directly part of the app, explore if the app could leverage or integrate with WoL capabilities to briefly wake the computer or specific network components upon an incoming call.
Low-Power/Push Notification Service Integration: For operating systems that support it (e.g., modern Windows Standby, macOS Power Nap), integrate with native low-power push notification services. This would allow the RingCentral backend to push a notification that can trigger a minimal wake-up to play an alert without fully resuming the entire system.
"Always-On" Mode (with User Consent): Introduce an optional setting in the app preferences, clearly labeled, that allows the user to enable a "Persistent Notification Mode." When enabled, the app would request the operating system to maintain a minimal network connection and allow the app to play a specific alert for incoming calls, even when the screen is off or the computer is in a light sleep state. This mode should be designed to be power-efficient.
Clear User Communication: If such a feature is implemented, provide clear guidance to users on the power consumption implications and how to configure it.
User Benefits:
Reduced Missed Calls: Users will be more likely to receive all incoming calls, even when their computer is idle or in sleep mode.
Improved Reliability: Enhances the reliability of the RingCentral desktop app as a primary communication tool.
Enhanced Productivity: Prevents workflow disruptions caused by missed calls and the need to constantly monitor computer activity.
Flexibility: Allows users greater flexibility in managing their computer's power settings without sacrificing call availability.
This feature request addresses a common pain point for users who rely on their desktop applications for real-time communication. While it's typically a power management issue on the user's end, RingCentral could potentially offer a more integrated solution to mitigate this.
Here's why this feature request is valuable:
Improved User Experience: Missing calls due to a sleeping computer is highly frustrating and unprofessional. This feature would significantly enhance the reliability and usability of the desktop app.
Competitive Advantage: If RingCentral can offer this functionality while competitors cannot (or do so less effectively), it provides a distinct advantage.
Increased Engagement: Users will be more likely to keep the desktop app open and rely on it if they know they won't miss calls.
Reduced Support Inquiries: A common reason for support tickets is "my RingCentral isn't ringing." This feature could reduce such inquiries.
