What is DTMF (touch-tone)?
The tones a phone sends when keys are pressed, used by IVR menus to read the caller's choice.
DTMF (touch-tone), explained
"Press 1 for sales" works through DTMF. AI voice agents can still read DTMF, for example when a caller types a long account number, but most of the conversation is spoken.
DTMF is also how callers enter numbers privately, such as a PIN or OTP, without saying them aloud. A voice agent that accepts both speech and key presses lets the caller choose whichever is easier in the moment.
See how these ideas come together in Chitti, Manolle's AI voice agent.
Related terms
- IVR (interactive voice response)A phone menu system where callers press keys or say simple words to choose options, such as "press 1 for sales".
- PSTN (public switched telephone network)The worldwide network of ordinary phone lines and mobile networks that phone calls travel over.
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