Working with the Phone number field

The Phone number field validates and formats numerical inputs, making it easy to store and use contact numbers directly from your table.

This guide covers what a Phone number field is and its key features, how to add a Phone number field to your table, how the field validates and formats data, and how to use the field for click-to-call.

Learn more: Configure field types

Adding a new phone number field in Baserow

What is a Phone number field?

A Phone number field is a specialized field type designed to store contact phone numbers. Unlike a standard text field, it ensures that your data is consistent, valid, and actionable.

Its main purpose is to clean up and structure data at the point of entry.

  • Validation: It automatically checks that the entered value is a plausible phone number, preventing simple data entry errors.
  • Formatting: It formats the string of numbers into a standardized, readable format (e.g., +1 (555) 123-4567). This keeps your database clean and easy to read.
  • Click-to-Call: Numbers in this field become actionable links. Clicking a number in your browser or on mobile will automatically launch your device’s default calling (e.g., FaceTime, Skype) or texting (e.g., iMessage) application.

This field is essential for any table that tracks leads, contacts, user lists, or any record requiring a valid phone number.

Add a Phone number field

To add a Phone number field to your table:

  1. In your table, click the plus sign + to add a new field.
  2. In the dropdown menu, select Phone number as the field type.
  3. Input a name for your field (e.g., “Contact Phone”).
  4. Click Create.

Using the Phone number field

Once you’ve added the field, you can start entering numbers. You’ll notice that as you type, Baserow formats the number for you.

The primary benefit is the click-to-call functionality. Simply tap or click on the cell containing the phone number. Your browser or operating system will prompt you to open the link with your default calling or messaging app.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between a Phone number field and a text field?

A Single line text field accepts any combination of characters. A Phone number field is specialized: it validates that the input is a phone number and automatically formats it into a standard, consistent structure. It also makes the number a clickable tel: link, which a text field does not do by default.

What format should I use to enter a number?

The field is flexible and will do its best to interpret the number you enter. For best results and to avoid ambiguity, it’s recommended to use the international format, including the country code (e.g., +1 for the United States, +44 for the United Kingdom).

Does this field validate that the phone number is real?

The field validates that the entry is in the format of a phone number (e.g., it has the correct number of digits). It does not, however, check if the number is currently in service or “real.” Its purpose is to ensure data consistency, not to verify the number’s active status.

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