Do we really need artificial intelligence instead of phonelines? – The Irish Times

Do we really need artificial intelligence instead of phonelines? – The Irish Times

Do we really need artificial intelligence instead of phonelines? – The Irish Times

https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/12/do-we-really-need-artificial-intelligence-instead-of-phonelines/

Publish Date: 2026-02-12 01:00:00

Source Domain: www.irishtimes.com

  • Shift to AI Support: Odeon has eliminated phone support for guest queries, replacing it with a robotic voice and directing users to live chat or social media for assistance.

  • Frustration with AI: The use of AI chatbots is seen as frustrating, particularly when they fail to provide adequate human-like communication, highlighting broader frustrations with AI-driven customer service.

  • AI as a Cost-Cutting Measure: Businesses are increasingly adopting AI to cut costs and project an image of innovation, often without carefully considering the actual benefits to customers.

  • AI Overuse as a Trend: The AI boom is driven in part by a trend of over-implementing AI technologies without proper innovation or necessity, evidenced by examples like the Personal AI Barista.

  • Impact on Customer Service: AI implementations, especially in customer service, can leave older generations struggling, preferring traditional methods like phone calls over navigating AI systems.

  • Climate Concerns: AI contributes to climate change, overlooked in the trend of widespread adoption for efficiency and scalability.