The story of the telephone is really the story of human connection — how we reach out, stay close, and make life easier. Speaking on HOT Business with Jeremy Maggs and MoneyWeb, Nick Lassinger, Chief Technology Officer at Euphoria Telecom, illustrated how far we’ve come — and where we’re heading next.

Lassinger shared some surprising insights, like the fact that the word “hello” only became a popular greeting because of a disagreement between two early telephone pioneers, Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. Bell preferred “ahoy,” while Edison pushed for “hello” — a small but powerful example of how phones have shaped not just technology, but the way we interact every day.

Today, with all our apps, texts, and voice notes, it’s easy to forget just how magical it once was to simply hear someone’s voice across a distance. Yet Lassinger believes that even in an age of automation and AI, nothing can quite replace the emotional connection of a real conversation. A friendly voice, a familiar greeting, or just someone remembering your name — these small moments still matter deeply.

Looking to the future, Lassinger predicts a swing back toward more human-centred communication, even as technology keeps evolving. While businesses continue to use AI and smart systems to make things faster and more efficient, the real magic lies in making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s in a call centre, a small business, or your local shop, genuine connection remains timeless.

Telephony is also becoming smarter behind the scenes. Integration with customer information, CRM tools, and real-time data is helping businesses tailor their service in ways that feel more personal and thoughtful — like walking into your favourite coffee shop and having your order remembered.

From the first crackly telephone calls of the 1800s to carrying a world of knowledge in our pockets today, the journey of voice technology reminds us that at its heart, it’s always been about bringing people closer together.pral