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Email Builder: Visual Design, Merge Tags, and Smart Fallbacks

Email Builder: Visual Design, Merge Tags, and Smart Fallbacks

Crafting personalized emails should be fast and foolproof. The new visual email builder paired with a searchable merge tags picker and smart fallback values means your team creates professional, personalized emails in minutes — without worrying about broken variables or blank fields.

What's New

  • Visual Email Builder: A new drag-and-drop email builder lets you design professional emails visually. Add sections, images, buttons, and text blocks without touching code. Test emails render system variables correctly so you can preview exactly what contacts will receive.

  • Searchable Merge Tags Picker: A categorized, searchable dropdown in the email builder makes inserting merge tags effortless. Tags are grouped by category (contact info, company details, custom fields) so you can find the right variable in seconds instead of memorizing tag syntax.

  • Alternative Variable Values: Set fallback values for merge variables that fire when the primary value is blank. If a contact doesn't have a first name, your email says "Hi there" instead of showing an empty blank. Works across email, SMS, and workflow messages.

  • Assignee Variables: A new Contact/Assignee toggle in the variable picker lets you insert assignee-specific merge tags. Personalize messages with the assigned team member's name, email, phone, or any other profile field — perfect for "Your account manager is..." messages.

  • Click-to-Copy Variables: Click any variable text in the builder to copy it to your clipboard with a toast confirmation. No more selecting, copying, and hoping you got the right syntax.

  • Email Body Preview in Messaging Logs: View the full rendered email body directly in your messaging logs. See the exact email your contact received, with formatting and images intact.

  • CSS Parsing for Message Logs: Email content in messaging logs now renders with proper CSS styling, so you see the email as it was delivered — not as raw HTML.

Why This Matters

Emails That Convert: The visual builder and merge tags picker remove the friction between having a great email idea and executing it. Personalized, professional emails in minutes — not hours.

Never Send a Broken Variable: Alternative values and click-to-copy eliminate the two most common personalization failures: blank variables and syntax errors. Every message reads naturally, every time.

Full Send Visibility: Email body preview and CSS parsing in messaging logs mean you can verify exactly what was sent to any contact. Debug deliverability issues with full context.

Trigger System Overhaul: Smarter Starts for Every Workflow

Trigger System Overhaul: Smarter Starts for Every Workflow

How a workflow starts matters just as much as what it does. We've replaced the old start node with a dedicated trigger system that supports multiple trigger types, sensible defaults, and reliable execution — so your automations fire exactly when and how you expect.

What's New

  • Dedicated Trigger Node: The generic start node has been replaced with a purpose-built trigger node. Choose from App Events, Scheduled, or Webhook trigger types — each with its own configuration panel and validation.

  • Default Status & Direction Preselection: Each trigger type now comes with sensible defaults pre-selected. App event triggers default to relevant statuses and directions, reducing setup time and configuration errors.

  • Inbound Email Trigger: Email triggers now fire for all matched flows — not just the first match. If an inbound email matches criteria for three different workflows, all three run.

  • New Chat Begins Trigger: Enabled for all channels. When a new chat conversation starts — whether from the widget, SMS, or any other channel — your workflow fires automatically.

  • Disabled Trigger Safety: Disabled triggers and disabled global nodes no longer fire unexpectedly. When you disable something, it stays disabled — period. No more ghost triggers executing flows you thought were turned off.

  • Auto-Save Node Config: Node configurations now save automatically when you switch between nodes. No more lost changes because you forgot to click "Apply."

Why This Matters

Reliable Triggers: The overhauled trigger system gives you precise control over when workflows fire, with clear type distinctions and sensible defaults. No more ghost triggers or unexpected executions.

Multi-Flow Email Handling: Inbound email triggers firing for all matches means you can have separate workflows for support routing, lead nurturing, and notification — all triggered by the same email without conflicts.

Faster Setup: Default preselection means less manual configuration. Create a trigger, and it's already configured for the most common use case — just customize from there.

New Workflow Nodes: Conversation, Availability, Content Generation, and Sub-Agents

New Workflow Nodes: Conversation, Availability, Content Generation, and Sub-Agents

The workflow builder just got a massive expansion. New nodes let your automations check calendars, generate content, search knowledge bases, and hand off between AI agents — all without leaving the builder.

What's New

  • Conversation Node: The Talking Node has been renamed and supercharged. The new Conversation Node supports a "stay on node if no route match" option that keeps the AI engaged instead of dropping off. Full text mode support means it works for chat, SMS, and email workflows — not just voice.

  • Check Availability Node: Query your team's calendar availability directly within a workflow. Use it to offer open time slots, validate proposed meeting times, or route contacts differently based on whether your team is available right now.

  • Generate Content Step: The Generate Content step uses AI to create personalized content on the fly within your workflow — follow-up emails, custom SMS messages, or summaries — using contact data and conversation context.

  • Forward to Agent / Sub-Agent Node: Hand off conversations between AI agents mid-flow. Route a sales inquiry to your sales agent, then forward to your scheduling agent when it's time to book — each agent specializes in what it does best.

  • Search Knowledge Base Step: Query your knowledge base from any workflow and use the results in subsequent steps. Output variables are fully exposed in the variable picker, so you can insert knowledge base answers into messages, conditions, or AI prompts.

  • AI-Powered Call Forwarding: The call forward node now supports AI-picked destinations. Instead of static forwarding rules, your AI agent evaluates the conversation context and routes the call to the best available team member or department.

  • SMS AI-Generated Responses: The SMS node now supports AI-generated message content. Define instructions instead of static text, and the AI crafts a contextual response for each contact based on their data and conversation history.

  • Extract Dynamic Variable Step: Enhanced with more data types and detailed info in test mode. Extract structured data from unstructured text with greater precision and visibility into what the AI is pulling out.

Why This Matters

Build Flows That Think: AI-generated content, knowledge base queries, and sub-agent handoffs mean your workflows can handle complex, contextual interactions that static automation can't touch.

Specialization Through Sub-Agents: Instead of building one massive agent that does everything, create specialized agents and let workflows route between them. Better responses, easier maintenance, and clearer analytics.

Schedule-Aware Automation: The Check Availability node eliminates the "sorry, that time is taken" back-and-forth. Your workflows only offer times that are actually open, reducing friction and no-shows.

More Do Not Disturb Options: Per-Channel Controls, Auto-Added to Contacts

More Do Not Disturb Options: Per-Channel Controls, Auto-Added to Contacts

Do Not Disturb gets a major upgrade. DND preferences are now configurable per channel, automatically added to every contact profile, and enforced across every send path — manual, automated, and bulk.

What's New

  • Per-Channel DND Controls: Set Do Not Disturb preferences individually for email, SMS, and calls on every contact. Each channel can be toggled independently, so a contact who opts out of texts can still receive emails. DND controls are now automatically included on the first tab of the contact sidebar — no setup required.

  • DND Workflow Node: Add DND checks directly into your automation flows. The new workflow node blocks sends based on a contact's per-channel DND status, automatically creating a "blocked" activity record so you have full visibility into what was skipped and why.

  • Do Not Call List Enforcement: Before any call is placed — whether from the webphone, power dialer, or workflow — the system checks the DNC list and blocks the call with a clear error toast. No accidental calls to contacts who've asked not to be contacted.

  • SMS Opt-Out Detection: Inbound messages containing STOP, CANCEL, UNSUBSCRIBE, and other standard keywords are automatically detected. You can also define custom multi-word opt-out phrases specific to your business, ensuring every unsubscribe request is honored instantly.

  • DND Banner in ReplyBox: When viewing a DND contact in the pipeline or inbox, a prominent banner warns your team before they attempt to send. The banner updates reactively — change DND status and the banner appears or disappears in real time.

  • Bulk Send DND Filtering: Running a bulk SMS or email campaign? DND-blocked contacts are automatically filtered out before sends begin, and blocked activity records are created for each skipped contact. Full compliance at scale.

  • Report Spam Call Blocking: Flag inbound calls as spam via the new Report Spam option on call activity. Reported numbers are blocked from future inbound routing, keeping your team focused on real conversations.

Why This Matters

Per-Channel Respect: Contacts don't have to choose between all-or-nothing. Opting out of SMS doesn't mean losing email updates — and your team sees exactly which channels are available at a glance.

Zero Configuration: DND controls are automatically present on every contact profile. Your team doesn't need to enable anything or add custom fields — it's built in and ready to use.

Audit-Ready Records: Every blocked send creates an activity record with the reason. When compliance questions arise, you have a complete trail showing exactly what was blocked and when.

Scale Without Risk: Whether you're sending to 50 contacts or 50,000, DND filtering happens automatically per channel. Your team doesn't need to manually check lists or worry about compliance gaps.

Workflow Builder Enhancements: Smarter Search, Richer Triggers, Deeper Logic

Workflow Builder Enhancements: Smarter Search, Richer Triggers, Deeper Logic

Building workflows just got faster and more powerful. We've redesigned the node search experience, added App Events triggers that connect to your GoHighLevel ecosystem, and introduced advanced data conditions that let your workflows make smarter decisions.

What's New

  • Simplified Node Search: Find any workflow node in seconds with the redesigned search panel. Type what you want to do—"send SMS", "book appointment", "check field"—and the right node surfaces instantly. Faster building means more time for strategy.

  • App Events Trigger with GHL Integration: Trigger workflows from GoHighLevel events and actions. When a GHL contact is updated, a deal moves stages, or an appointment is booked, your Votel workflows fire automatically. True bi-directional automation between platforms.

  • Advanced Data Conditions: New is set and is not set conditions let your workflows branch based on whether data exists—not just what it equals. Route contacts differently based on whether they have a phone number, email, company name, or any custom field populated.

  • Talking Route Synonyms: Define synonym lists for your AI agent's talking routes. If a customer says "pricing," "cost," "how much," or "rate"—your agent handles them all identically. Broader coverage, fewer dead ends.

Why This Matters

Build in Minutes, Not Hours: The new node search is like having autocomplete for automation. Describe your intent, grab the node, and keep building. Complex workflows come together faster than ever.

GHL + Votel = Unstoppable: App Events triggers turn Votel and GoHighLevel into a single, unified automation engine. Changes in one platform instantly drive actions in the other—no manual syncing, no missed updates.

Precision Routing: Data conditions give your workflows the intelligence to handle edge cases gracefully. Missing email? Skip the email step. No phone? Route to chat. Your automation adapts to the data it has.

Smarter AI Conversations: Synonym support means your AI agent understands natural language variations without custom training. Customers speak naturally, your agent responds accurately.

Email Automation Suite: Send, Receive & Automate from Your Own Domain

Email Automation Suite: Send, Receive & Automate from Your Own Domain

Email is back—and it's smarter than ever. We've rebuilt our email system from the ground up with inbound email handling, custom domain support, auto-channel creation, and deep workflow integration. Send personalized emails from your own domain, receive replies directly in your Conversations Hub, and automate the entire lifecycle.

What's New

  • Inbound Email Processing: Receive emails directly inside the platform. Replies from leads and customers flow into your Conversations Hub alongside SMS, calls, and chat—giving you a true unified inbox.

  • Custom Domain & Sender Configuration: Send emails from you@yourdomain.com instead of a generic address. Guided domain setup walks you through DNS configuration step-by-step, with autocomplete to make it effortless.

  • Auto-Created Email Channels: When a new contact sends an email, the system automatically creates an email channel for that conversation. No manual setup required—just instant, organized communication threads.

  • System Variables in Email Templates: Use dynamic variables like {$system.logo_url} alongside contact variables in your email templates. Build branded, personalized emails at scale that look hand-crafted.

Why This Matters

True Omni-Channel: Email joins SMS, voice, and chat in a single Conversations Hub. No more switching between Gmail, your CRM, and your dialer. Everything lives in one place.

Domain Credibility: Emails from your own domain land in inboxes, not spam folders. Custom sender configuration means higher deliverability and stronger brand trust.

Zero-Setup Conversations: Auto-created channels mean your team never has to manually configure email threads. Reply to a lead, and the system handles the rest.

End-to-End Automation: Combine inbound email triggers with workflow automation—automatically route support tickets, nurture warm leads, or notify team members the moment an important email arrives.

Workflow Personalization: Smart Automation That Feels Human

Workflow Personalization: Smart Automation That Feels Human

Generic outreach is dead. We've added powerful personalization across your entire workflow builder—from dynamic AI questions to personalized emails that automatically insert contact details. Your automation can now feel as personal as a 1-on-1 conversation.

What's New

  • Contact Variables Everywhere: Use {{first_name}}, {{email}}, {{company}}, or any custom field directly in your workflows. Personalize every touchpoint without lifting a finger.

  • Dynamic Ask & Save Questions: Your AI agent can now ask "Hi {{first_name}}, are you still interested in {{product}}?" instead of generic questions. Works in voice and chat.

  • Personalized Email Automation: The Email Node now supports variables. Write one template, automatically personalize it for every contact: "Hi {{first_name}}, following up on our call about {{topic}}."

  • Smart Calendar Auto-Retry: Booking failed? The Smart Calendar Node now automatically retries with alternative time slots instead of giving up after one attempt.

  • MMS Image Support: Send product images, flyers, or screenshots directly in SMS workflows. Upload once, send to thousands.

  • Gmail Workflow Triggers: Forward emails to your Votel inbox to automatically trigger workflows. Perfect for support tickets, lead notifications, or custom automations.

Why This Matters

Personalization at Scale: Send 1,000 messages that feel like 1,000 individual conversations. Variables let you automate without sounding robotic.

Higher Response Rates: Personalized messages get 26% higher response rates. Now every email, SMS, and AI question is tailored to the recipient.

Smarter Follow-Ups: Auto-retry on calendar bookings means fewer missed appointments. Image support in SMS means richer, more engaging conversations.

Set It and Forget It: Build your workflow once with variables, then let it run. Whether you have 10 contacts or 10,000, the system handles personalization automatically.

Native MCP Server Integration for AI Agents

Native MCP Server Integration for AI Agents

AI Agents are now super-powered with native MCP (Multi-Connect Protocol) support. This allows your agents to connect directly to other MCP-enabled platforms, enabling deep, real-time data synchronization and workflow automation across your entire tech stack.

What's New

  • Native MCP Support: Connect MCP servers directly inside the Agent module's integration settings
  • Cross-App Connectivity: Seamlessly integrate with MCP-enabled platforms, including popular tools like GoHighLevel and CloseGPT Subscriptions
  • Automated Agent Triggers: Use MCP to sync data, trigger external workflows, fetch real-time context from other apps, and more

Why This Matters

Breaks Down Silos: Your AI agent is no longer an island. It can now talk to your other core systems.

Real-Time Context: Agents can fetch live data (e.g., "What's this user's subscription status?") before answering.

Powerful Automation: Trigger complex, multi-app workflows that start in Votel and finish in GoHighLevel (or vice-versa).

New: Workflow Builder for Agents

Workflow Builder for Agents

An agent that can talk is one thing, but an agent that can take action is another. Launching alongside the Agent System is the new Workflow Builder, allowing you to connect your AI to automated, multi-step actions.

What's New

  • Multi-Step Workflows: Automate follow-ups, decisions, and internal actions
  • Conditional Branching: Create dynamic flows that adapt to user responses (e.g., "If intent is 'sales_qualified', create a deal in the pipeline")
  • Execution Preview: Review workflow steps and data inputs for accuracy

Why This Matters

Full Automation: Your agent can now do more than just talk—it can qualify leads, update the CRM, and send follow-ups.

Smarter Agents: Create complex logic that guides the agent's behavior based on real-time conversation data.