Feature in Testing
This feature is currently in testing but will be available very soon.
What is FrontDesk AI?
FrontDesk AI is Phorest's AI powered front desk assistant. It responds to client messages in real time via two way SMS, helping salons manage bookings, reschedules, cancellations, confirmations, and simple appointment related questions 24/7.
It integrates directly with Phorest so it can check availability, update appointments, and take action without staff needing to step in.
FrontDesk AI is designed to support front of house teams, not replace them. It handles high volume, repetitive messaging so staff can focus on in salon client experience and higher value interactions.
Why did Phorest build FrontDesk AI?
Salons receive a large volume of inbound messages that require fast responses but not human decision making. These messages often pile up during busy hours or outside business hours, leading to missed bookings and frustrated clients.
FrontDesk AI helps salons respond instantly, reduce message backlogs, and stay responsive even when staff are busy or the salon is closed.
How does FrontDesk AI work?
FrontDesk AI operates on top of Phorest's two way SMS channel. When a client sends a message, the AI understands the request and responds based on real availability, services, staff schedules, and the client's history.
If a request cannot be handled or a client asks to speak to a person, the conversation is immediately handed back to staff.
What can FrontDesk AI do today?
FrontDesk AI can:
- Book new appointments based on live availability
- Reschedule existing appointments
- Cancel appointments
- Confirm appointments when clients reply to reminders
- Recognize existing clients and past services, including "same as last time" requests
It is designed for everyday booking and appointment management rather than complex or custom requests.
Does FrontDesk AI replace my front desk team?
No. FrontDesk AI is designed to support your team by handling repetitive messaging. When a conversation needs human input or becomes complex, the AI hands off immediately.
Salons stay fully in control and can choose when and how FrontDesk AI is used.
How does handoff to staff work?
FrontDesk AI hands off a conversation when:
- A client asks to speak to a human
- The AI detects frustration
- A request falls outside current capabilities
When this happens, AI pauses automatically and the conversation is returned to staff for follow up.
Can salons control who FrontDesk AI responds to?
Yes. Salons can enable or disable FrontDesk AI per client using the Two way Chat interface. There is also a Test Mode that allows salons to trial the AI with a small group before rolling it out more widely.
Which channels are supported?
FrontDesk AI currently works via two way SMS. Additional channels will be introduced over time.
Which regions is FrontDesk AI available in?
FrontDesk AI is available in North America, UKI, and Australia.
Are there any current limitations?
FrontDesk AI works best when salon data is accurate and up to date. It cannot fix incorrect service durations, missing services, or incomplete setup.
At this time, FrontDesk AI:
- Works with existing clients who message the salon
- Does not support voice
- Does not answer custom salon policy questions such as parking or pet policies
How does pricing work?
FrontDesk AI is currently available through early access. Pricing details will be shared closer to general availability.