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What is Push-to-talk

Push-to-Talk

Push-to-Talk (PTT) is an input mode for Rapport Studio that gives users direct control over when their microphone is active. It is configured at the project level by the project owner.

Overview

By default, Rapport Studio uses open-mic input — the microphone listens continuously during a session. When PTT is enabled, the microphone only activates while the user holds the Press and hold to talk button. Releasing the button stops input immediately and the character processes the response.

PTT is available for Web Page projects only. It is not supported for Web Widget projects.

Why use Push-to-Talk?

  • Reduced background noise — the microphone only activates on demand, preventing unwanted audio between turns.

  • Cleaner interactions — well suited to professional, training, or high-noise environments where open-mic input can cause issues.

  • Flexible input — PTT can be used alongside text input or on its own, depending on the needs of the experience.

How to enable Push-to-Talk

  1. Open your project in Rapport Studio.

  2. Go to Project Setup → Controls.

  3. Under Available controls, check Push to talk.

  4. Save your project.

Once enabled, users will see a Press and hold to talk button in the published experience.

Input mode combinations

Text input for chat and Push to talk are independent toggles. They can be enabled together or separately.

Text input

Push to talk

Result

Enabled

Disabled

Users type to interact; microphone is open by default

Disabled

Enabled

Users press and hold to speak; no text input shown

Enabled

Enabled

Both options available — users can type or press and hold to speak

Disabled

Disabled

Open-mic voice interaction only

ℹ️ Enabling both Text input and Push to Talk gives users maximum flexibility. This is recommended for mixed environments where some users may prefer typing over speaking.

Notes

⚠️ PTT is a Web Page feature only. It is not available for Web Widget projects.

💡 PTT works across all published Web Page experiences — including previews, shareable preview links, and live deployments.

🔗 Project Setup: Appearance & Interaction — Controls section