Exhibit 23.1 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on: (a) Form S-8, No. 33-80168 pertaining to the Company's 1984 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1988 Non-qualified Stock Option Plan, Directors' Stock Option Plan, and other Employee Benefit Plans; (b) Forms S-8, No. 33-80168 and No. 333-0745 pertaining to the Company's 1993 Stock Option Plan, as amended; (c) Form S-8, No. 333-07331 pertaining to the Company's 1996 Stock Purchase Plan; (d) Form S-8, No. 333-30451 pertaining to the Company's 401k Plan; (e) Form S-8, No. 333-21739 and 333-58101 pertaining to the Company's 1996 Stock Option Plan, as amended; and (f) Form S-8, No. 333-58103 pertaining to the Company's 1998 Stock Option Plan and 1997 Director Stock Option Plan, of our report dated May 13, 1999, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Active Voice Corporation included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended March 31, 1999 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP Seattle, Washington June 25, 1999