Abstract: Methods and systems to enable touch-free call origination using a communication device equipped with a microphone. The method comprises processing a first microphone signal at the device in an attempt to detect a spoken activation command potentially contained therein. Responsive to detection of a spoken activation command in the first microphone signal, the method continues by establishing a communication path between the device and a network entity to convey to the network entity a second microphone signal. Finally, the method comprises processing the second microphone signal at the network entity in an attempt to detect a call origination command potentially contained therein; and, responsive to detection of a call origination command in the second microphone signal, attempting establishment of a call in accordance with the detected call origination command. Thus, a call can be established without tactile interaction with the device and, moreover, with minimal computational load on the device.

Abstract: A system for enabling a user of a communication device to both handle an incoming call and originate an outgoing call without having to touch the communication device, by way of exchange of voice messages with the communication device. The system is operative for receiving a signal produced by a microphone associated with the communication device and for processing this signal in an attempt to detect at least one of a plurality of spoken commands potentially contained therein. The plurality of spoken commands comprises at least one spoken call handling command and at least one spoken call origination command. In response to detecting a spoken call handling command, the system causes handling of an incoming call destined for the communication device in accordance with the detected spoken call handling command.