The AI receptionist alternative to an auto attendant
An auto attendant routes callers through a menu ("press 1 for…") but never actually answers a question or books anything. An AI receptionist lets callers say what they need in their own words and handles it on the spot — answering, scheduling, and capturing the lead — so fewer callers hang up on a menu.
Auto attendant
Phone-system add-on
Menu routing only
- Answers every call: Routes a menu, doesn't answer
- Simultaneous calls: Routing only
- Books appointments: No
- After-hours & weekends: Just plays the menu
- Setup: Menu flows to configure
- Cost: Per-line add-on
Best value
Ahoya
$49/mo
Flat rate · free trial
- Answers every call: Yes — 24/7, natural voice
- Simultaneous calls: Unlimited at once
- Books appointments: Yes, into your calendar
- After-hours & weekends: Always answered
- Setup: Live in minutes from your site
- Cost: $49/mo flat
Frequently asked questions
How is an AI receptionist different from an auto attendant?
An auto attendant only forwards calls based on menu choices. An AI receptionist holds a real conversation — answering questions and booking appointments — instead of pushing callers through a phone tree.
Can it still route calls to the right person?
Yes — it can answer and resolve most calls itself, and route or escalate to a specific person when needed.
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