How text to speech works
Text is analysed for words, numbers and punctuation, converted to phonetic sounds, and synthesised into audio in a chosen voice. The audio can play live during a call or be saved as a file.
Uses
- IVR prompts – menus and announcements for your IVR system.
- Voice broadcasting – messages for IVR call blasting campaigns.
- Dynamic information – reading out names, amounts, dates and reference numbers.
- Accessibility – helping people with visual impairments or reading difficulties listen to written content.
- New services and entertainment – audio versions of written content.
Benefits
- Change a message by editing text — no studio recording.
- Personalise every call.
- Consistent voice across all prompts.
- Faster launch of campaigns and IVR changes.
Frequently asked questions
What is text to speech?
Text to speech (TTS) is assistive technology that turns digital text into a synthetic human voice. It is also called speech synthesis.
How is text to speech used in telephony?
TTS generates IVR menu prompts, reads out dynamic details such as balances, order status or appointment times, and creates messages for voice broadcasting campaigns.
What are the benefits of text to speech?
Prompts can be changed instantly by editing text, there is no need to re-record audio, personalised details can be spoken on every call, and written content becomes accessible to people with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
Last updated: 4 November 2026