GLOSSARY · Calling · Updated 27 October 2026
What is IVR (Interactive Voice Response)?
IVR is a phone system that lets callers navigate a menu by pressing keys or saying short commands, such as "Press 1 for sales".
IVR routes callers or plays recorded information. It cannot hold a real conversation: every path has to be designed in advance, and callers often get stuck in menus.
AI voice agents replace the menu with open speech. The caller says what they need and the agent responds, which is why many businesses use an IVR only as a fallback.
Common questions
- Is an AI voice agent just a smarter IVR?
- It solves the same need, handling calls without a human, but works from natural speech and a goal rather than a fixed menu tree.
Related terms
Definitions are general information for businesses in India, not legal advice. All glossary terms · Try Vyora free