Audio Response Unit (ARU)

An Audio Response Unit (ARU) is a computer-based telephony system designed to automate interactions with callers by playing pre-recorded voice messages. It utilizes stored audio files to provide information or guidance over the phone.

ARUs can be categorized into two main types:

1. Passive ARU: This type of system delivers a one-way message without requiring any feedback from the caller. A common example is a recorded announcement that plays when a business is closed, stating its hours of operation.
2. Interactive ARU: This more advanced system plays specific messages in response to input from the caller, typically made via their telephone keypad (DTMF tones). The caller's selections determine the next message or action.

Today, the functionality of an interactive ARU is more commonly found in systems known as Auto Attendants or Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems, which allow callers to self-serve and navigate complex menu options.