Barge-In (Caller Interruption)

Edited

Barge-in allows callers to interrupt ANET while it is speaking.

When interruption confidence exceeds threshold:

  • ANET stops speaking

  • STT resumes listening

  • Conversation flow adjusts

This prevents rigid IVR-style blocking.


Barge-In Guardrails

Barge-in behavior is controlled by:

  • Interruption confidence threshold

  • End-of-turn detection logic

If thresholds are too low:

  • Frequent interruptions may occur.

If thresholds are too high:

  • Callers may feel blocked.

Balance must be maintained.


How to Evaluate Barge-In Behavior (Step-by-Step)

  1. Review transcript and timeline.

  2. Identify moments where caller spoke during system speech.

  3. Confirm:

    • System stopped speaking appropriately

    • Transcript captured caller input

    • Conversation did not restart incorrectly

  4. Look for oscillation or repeated prompts.

Frequent oscillation may indicate tuning issues.