Optus launches AI-enabled Call Effects

Optus has introduced a new AI-powered voice function designed to evolve the way friends and families connect through phone calls.

The Optus Call Effects feature will allow Optus customers to trigger effects such as a coin toss for making decisions, or a Dinner Roulette feature for groups to decide what to eat.

In addition, a ‘crystal ball’ feature allows users to request answers to deep questions, while ‘21 questions’ allows two people on a voice call to get to know each other.

To trigger these functions, Optus Voice Effects must first be enabled from the My Optus app. The effects can then be triggered at any time by saying “Hey Optus” while on a voice call.

Optus managing director for marketing and revenue Matt Williams said the functionality is one of multiple network features introduced through the Optus Living Network initiative, which first launched in May 2021.

“As part of creating an innovative network experience, our latest Living Network feature uses AI technology in the traditional phone call, delivering a fun experience exclusively for our customers. Messaging has emojis, video has AR filters, and now phone calls on the Optus network have Call Effects,” he said.

“Our advanced calling features in the Living Network to date, Optus Call Translate and Optus Call Notes, solve specific challenges, but Optus Call Effects is all about just having some fun. As the product evolves, we plan to add more new experiences.”

Other Optus Living Network functions include Donate Your Data, Donate Your Device, Unlimited Data Days and Wi-Fi Secure.