Telephone system applications of recorded machine announcements

The applications of voice-recording equipment discussed in some detail can be divided into four general groups: Announcements made directly to and providing a service to subscribers, such as weather forecasts and the time of day. Announcements to assist subscribers in connection with telephone service, that is, intercept announcements when an individual calls a vacant or disconnected terminal, or emergency announcements if an unusual condition prevents normal service. Announcements to expedite service and assist operators in completing calls, including completion of calls from a dial to a nondial phone, and advising operators of the time delay for completing long distance calls. Specialized announcement or recording services, such as price quotation and ticket reservation.