The present invention is drawn to a method and apparatus for taking
advantage of the always-on nature of a broadband VoIP network connection
to provide enhanced services triggered by the off-hook event, bypassing a
dial tone. In use, a caller triggers a network based greeting upon the
off-hook event of picking up the phone. The greeting can be used for
unique branding purposes by speaking a greeting to the caller. After the
greeting, the caller can be immediately connected to an array of
network-based services. A voice recognition system is employed to permit
the caller to use voice dialing. A network interactive voice response
unit (VRU) is used with the voice recognition system to allow the user to
access services from a menu. The VRU can respond to an affirmative
statement from the caller by using a table to lookup the phone number of
requested services closest to the caller based on the caller's phone
number (i.e., ANI). The VRU can additionally collect purchase and/or
billing information from the caller and electronically place an order
with the vendor, such as via facsimile, e-mail, web form, or other
electronic means. The product or service is then delivered directly to
the caller with minimal or no human intervention.