Intercom Calls

Last modified: September 25, 2024
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Introduction

We are pleased to introduce the Intercom Feature, a convenient way to initiate instant, two-way communication with specific extensions within your organization. By dialling a special code, you can call another extension, and if the recipient’s phone supports auto-answering, the call will automatically connect without the recipient needing to pick up the handset. This feature is ideal for quick announcements, immediate assistance, or hands-free conversations.

How It Works

The Intercom Feature uses a special dialling code that signals the recipient’s phone to auto-answer the call in speakerphone mode. This allows for seamless communication without any manual intervention on the recipient’s end.

Caller Phone Dials *80{Extension} Two-way Audio Communication Recipient Phone Auto-Answers Call Intercom Call

Dialling Sequence

  • Intercom Call: Dial *80{extension}
    • *80: The feature code to initiate an intercom call.
    • {extension}: The extension number you wish to reach.

Steps to Use the Intercom Feature

1. Ensure Phone Compatibility

  • The recipient’s phone must support auto-answer functionality for intercom calls.
  • Supported phone brands include Yealink, Poly (formerly Polycom), and Cisco.
  • Auto-answer must be enabled and properly configured on the recipient’s phone.

2. Initiate the Intercom Call

  • Lift the Handset or Use Speakerphone
    • Pick up your handset or press the speakerphone button on your phone.
  • Dial the Intercom Code
    • Enter *80 followed by the recipient’s extension number.
    • Example: To intercom extension 205, dial *80205.

3. Start Communicating

  • Once dialled, the recipient’s phone will ring briefly and then auto-answer.
  • You can begin speaking immediately; your voice will be heard through the recipient’s speakerphone.
  • The recipient can respond hands-free if their phone supports two-way communication in auto-answer mode.

Example

Scenario: You need to quickly ask a colleague at extension 205 a question.

  1. Dial: *80205
  2. Recipient’s Phone: Rings briefly and then auto-answers.
  3. Communication Established: You and your colleague can now speak in real-time without them needing to pick up the phone.

Important Notes

  • Privacy Considerations:
    • Be mindful that intercom calls are auto-answered and may be heard by others near the recipient’s phone.
    • Avoid sharing sensitive or confidential information over the intercom.
  • Do Not Disturb (DND):
    • If the recipient has enabled Do Not Disturb on their phone, the intercom call may not be completed.
  • Volume Settings:
    • The recipient’s phone speaker volume settings will affect how loudly they hear the intercom call.
  • One-Way vs. Two-Way Communication:
    • Most supported phones allow for two-way communication during an intercom call.
    • Check your phone’s capabilities to understand how it handles intercom calls.
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