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How-to3 min read

Backup mode vs. full mode: which should your AI use?

Should the AI grab every call, or only the ones you miss? A simple way to decide, based on how you actually run your day.

Donna can answer in one of two ways. Both make sure no call goes unanswered — the difference is just who picks up first. Choosing comes down to how you like to run your day.

Backup mode — your phone rings first

Your phone rings for about 15 seconds. If you grab it, you handle the call yourself, like always. If you can't, the AI quietly steps in so the caller never lands in voicemail. It's the safety net for owners who like taking calls but hate missing them.

Full mode — the AI answers everything

Every call goes straight to the AI. It greets the caller, answers questions, books the job, and texts you the details. No interruptions, no ringing in your pocket while you're under a hood or on a ladder. Best when you're hands-on the work all day.

Which should you pick?

Simple rule: if you're hands-on the phone, choose backup. If you're hands-on the job, choose full. Solo operators who are constantly busy usually love full mode; shops with someone near the desk often start with backup.

And it's not permanent — you can switch modes anytime in your dashboard. Many owners run backup during the day and full mode after hours and on weekends.

Ready to stop losing calls?