Google 411
Today Google announced a new beta product, Google 411 service. You can call up 1-800-GOOG-411, and get local business information, and even connect to the number free of charge. If you say "text message" a SMS message will be delivered to your phone with the information you requested (standard SMS fees apply). In their FAQ when asked about advertising through this service, they reply, "At this point, the service is still in its experimental stage and we don’t support ads." For all of you security freaks, Google does record your number, the time you call, and how you say each command. This is done to, "distinguish you from other users, and ultimately, to personalize the service to you." You can block caller ID, if you don’t want Google collecting your information. The service is completely automated, and no phone reps are available to help you, hence why it’s free.
Very cool! I like it!!
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*67 will not work. You cannot block called id when calling 800 numbes.
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This service rocks…better than $1.00 + per call to cingular wireless info.!!!
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AT&T/Cingular charges $1.79 plus taxes and fees for their 411 service.
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How long till the new AT&T blocks calling this number like they did previously with a conference calling service
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Hello everyone…
In case any of you didn’t know this, Google has a new voice operated directory assistance service. I have been trying to use this from my Cell phone and have been receiving a “Network is busy” instead of getting through. I have been able to call from Work, home, and other non-cingular cell phones just fine.
On a whim, I called Cingular’s customer service, and they confirmed that they are blocking Googles service. “Google is a competitor, so we have blocked their phone number”
This is absolutely rediculous. I can’t think of another time that a Phone/Cell company has ticked me off so bad.
And people complain about Microsoft’s anti-competitive practices!
Try it for your self if you have a Cingular cell phone.
Google’s web page about new service: http://labs.google.com/goog411/
To try this service, just dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any phone.
I have already written to Google, my senartor and congressman to let them know.
Please spread the word!
Mike
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That is not surprising to me, they want you to pay their inflated 411 fees instead. Cingular does not offer any wifi enabled phones for the same reason. They serve themselves, not their customers.
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I have Cingular and it is not blocked!
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