Glossary
AI receptionist
An AI receptionist is software that answers a business's phone calls with a voice agent, talks with callers in natural language, and handles routine requests such as questions, intake and booking.
Explained
AI receptionist, explained
A caller dials the business number as usual. The call reaches the AI receptionist directly, or only when the team does not pick up, depending on how call forwarding is set. The agent greets the caller with the business's own opening message and works from instructions, business hours and knowledge documents that the business provides.
During the call it can answer approved questions, collect details such as the caller's name, reason for calling and callback number, and book an appointment when it is connected to a calendar. After the call, the business gets a recording, a transcript and a short summary, so staff can follow up without asking the caller to repeat themselves.
An AI receptionist differs from a phone menu (an IVR), which asks callers to press keys, and from a human answering service, where people take messages on the business's behalf. It is best suited to routine, repeatable calls. Decisions that need professional judgment stay with staff.
Supported in Voxipo
AI receptionist and Voxipo
Voxipo is an AI receptionist for small businesses in the US and Canada. It answers inbound calls 24/7 on the business line, calls missed callers back from the business's SMS-verified caller ID, and books into Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Cal.com or Calendly during the call. Every call is saved with a recording, transcript, summary and outcome. Live call transfer to a person is not currently available.
Questions
AI receptionist: FAQs
Does an AI receptionist replace front-desk staff?
It takes the routine calls staff cannot get to, such as after-hours calls or calls during busy periods. Judgment calls, exceptions and in-person work stay with the team.
Do callers know they are talking to an AI?
The business writes the greeting. Many businesses introduce the agent as a virtual receptionist so callers know what to expect.
Can an AI receptionist book appointments?
Yes, when it is connected to a calendar and given booking rules. Voxipo checks availability and books during the call.