Sunday, January 20, 2008

Google's Free 411

Google just seems to have a knack for being involved with services and programs that have nothing to do with the search engine. Just a couple days ago, I came across one of them. This time it is a free 411 service from Google. Yes, Google is now competing with the 411 directory service. The number is 1-800-GOOG-411, or 1-800-466-4411. Being a free service mean, of course, that you are talking to a machine instead of a real human. So, without any hesitation, I gave it a try.

The first thing it asks me is the name of the city.

"San Gabriel, California," I said.

"San Diego, California," it repeated.

I cancel the confirmation, and repeat it again. The same sequence was played few times before I gave up. As a last resort, I ended up typing in the zip code, and at least that work well enough. I tested the system by asking for few places locations around my area, and it works about 75% of the time. It listed all 99 Ranch Markets, and found well known Thai restaurants in this area.

Google 411 service can also forward your call to the store's telephone. If you wish, you can receive the address of the business by a text message. This would work really well if you have a GPS system in your car. In conclusion, Google 411 is an impressive free service that anyone should try before dialing 411.

For more detail, look at this link:

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