Remember the days when you could pick up the phone, dial 411, and reach a directory assistance operator who would look up a number for you for free? No? Well, perhaps I’m showing my age….
These days, a directory assistance call costs money – last time I called 411 on my cell phone it cost $1.50. This is not a service that I use with any regularity, but because I travel so much there are occasions when I simply must use my cell to find a number. So I was pleased to learn about a new FREE directory assistance from Google, called 1-800-GOOG-411. You don’t need a computer, an Internet connection, or even the keypad on your phone or mobile device. GOOG-411 is voice-activated, so you can access it from any phone, in any location, at any time. Here’s how it works:
Dial (1-800) GOOG-411. When prompted, say the city and state, or key in the zip code. Next, you will be asked for the business name or category. You can name a specific company (for example, Holiday Inn Hotel) or just say “hotels.” The service will respond with a numbered list of area hotels; simply respond with the number of your choice and you are instantly connected.
If you are calling from a mobile device, GOOG-411 can even send you a text message with more details and a map. Simply say “Text message” or “Map it.”
Of course, your telephone company may apply usual charges for making a phone call or receiving an SMS, but you will not be charged any additional 411 fee. Way to go, Google.
Hey. Great logo. Can you tell which font you have used in it?
I’m a little surprised this didn’t come along sooner. I’ll be sure to check it out next time I’m “over the pond”, but for now I’m afraid I’ll be waiting until Google launches a UK-based service. For years our directory enquiries weren’t too expensive, but the last few years has seen a handful of competing services and (surprisingly for a competitive market) large price hikes.
Wow – This is a great find. I will definitely pass it along. Thanks for letting us know about this!!!