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Build a Realtime AI Phone call agent with OpenAI and Twilio in MINUTES!

Science & Technology

Introduction

In this article, we will walk you through the process of building your very own AI-powered voice agent capable of answering phone calls in real time, responding to questions, and even cracking jokes! Using the OpenAI real-time API and Python, we will create a custom solution that can serve multiple purposes, such as an interactive voice response (IVR) system, automated customer support, or even a virtual receptionist.

The Evolution of Real-Time AI Systems

Previously, developing such a real-time system was a complex task due to various steps involved, including speech-to-text conversion, generating responses using a language model, and then converting the text back into speech. All of this HAD to be completed in real time, which made it challenging to manage. However, with the introduction of the OpenAI real-time API, we can now simplify this process significantly. The API can handle both audio and text inputs, process them, and return real-time audio outputs. This means you can build a speech-to-speech application by simply providing input and capturing the output without handling the complexities of each step.

Getting Started

To start building your AI voice agent, follow these steps:

  1. Visit Replit and create an account. If you already have one, log in.
  2. Click on the button that says Create a Replit. In this platform, a new project is referred to as a "Replit."
  3. Search for FastAPI, give your Replit a name (for example, my_ripple), and create it.
  4. Remove any pre-existing code in the Replit and replace it with the code found in the link provided in the description below the video.
  5. Add your OpenAI API key to your Replit environment by navigating to the Secrets section, clicking New Secret, and inputting the key-value pair: open AI API key. You can find your OpenAI API key in your OpenAI account settings.
  6. Click the big green button to run the code. The environment will automatically install any required dependencies.

Note that you might receive an error related to an undefined route; you can safely ignore this.

  1. Copy the provided web hook URL, which you will later configure with Twilio.

Configure Twilio

  1. Log into your Twilio account and navigate to View All Numbers.
  2. If you are using a trial account, remember to add your verified caller ID as that is required for calls. If you are using a standard account, you can proceed with your active numbers.
  3. Click on the phone number you wish to configure and find the Voice Configuration section. Here, you will input the copied web hook URL.
  4. After pasting the URL, scroll down and click Save Configuration.

Now, you're set up! You can start testing your AI voice agent by making a phone call to your Twilio number. You’ll be connected to the OpenAI real-time API, allowing you to interact with your AI voice assistant.

Overview of the Code

Our implementation leverages FastAPI, where crucial configurations for your assistant can be set up, including selecting the voice and determining the conversation style. The web hook added to your Twilio phone number is designed to connect the phone call to the OpenAI real-time API via a WebSocket.

This connection remains active throughout the call and will continue until either party hangs up.

If you have any questions or if anything is unclear, feel free to leave a comment below.

Keywords

  • AI Voice Agent
  • OpenAI
  • Twilio
  • Real-time API
  • FastAPI
  • Automated Customer Support
  • IVR System
  • Voice Configuration

FAQ

Q1: What is the purpose of the AI voice agent?
A1: The AI voice agent can answer phone calls, respond to questions, and tell jokes, making it ideal for customer support, IVR systems, or personal assistants.

Q2: What technology is used to build the AI voice agent?
A2: It utilizes the OpenAI real-time API and FastAPI for backend development, along with Twilio for handling phone calls.

Q3: Do I need programming experience to create this AI voice agent?
A3: Basic knowledge of Python and experience with APIs will certainly help, but the step-by-step guide provided can assist beginners in getting started.

Q4: Is this a free service?
A4: Twilio and OpenAI may have associated costs for their services, especially if you go beyond the limits of their trial accounts. Make sure to review their pricing before starting.

Q5: Can I expand the features of this AI voice agent?
A5: Absolutely! The code can be extended to improve functionalities, such as adding more complex response logic, saving conversation logs, or integrating other APIs.