Tip: Call 800-GOOG-411 and Never Pay for 411 on Your Cell Phone Again
Saturday September 20, 2008
An About.com cell phones reader just posted to my forums that he was having difficulties with Google’s 411 text messaging service. The intention is for you to be able to text 46645 from your cell phone and have Google return to you local directory listings.
I’ve tried that free service in the past, too, and have also experienced hiccups. Fuggetaboutit. Don’t use it. Use GOOG 411 instead. Once you know about that service, you’ll never pay for 411 from your cell phone again. Just call this number:
Never pay for 411 again.
Image screenshot © Google
It’s just that simple, people. In the same way you’d call traditional 411 and they’d ask your city and state and then the name of the place you’re looking for, GOOG 411 in an automated voice does that, too.
When they ask that along with your directory listing, just make sure wherever you are isn’t too loud. GOOG 411 can get confused by ambient noise. Here’s another tip: Once the search result you’re seeking is found, say “Details” and then “Text Message”.
Yes, GOOG 411 will send you a text message pronto with the name of the place, the address, the phone number and a link to the Google listing. Enjoy not paying $1.50 per 411 call ever again!
I’ve tried that free service in the past, too, and have also experienced hiccups. Fuggetaboutit. Don’t use it. Use GOOG 411 instead. Once you know about that service, you’ll never pay for 411 from your cell phone again. Just call this number:
Image screenshot © Google
It’s just that simple, people. In the same way you’d call traditional 411 and they’d ask your city and state and then the name of the place you’re looking for, GOOG 411 in an automated voice does that, too.
When they ask that along with your directory listing, just make sure wherever you are isn’t too loud. GOOG 411 can get confused by ambient noise. Here’s another tip: Once the search result you’re seeking is found, say “Details” and then “Text Message”.
Yes, GOOG 411 will send you a text message pronto with the name of the place, the address, the phone number and a link to the Google listing. Enjoy not paying $1.50 per 411 call ever again!
Comments
A good idea in theory, a nearly useless service in practice (unless you are looking for the number of a VERY big business). It gives company numbers only, no individual/residential listing, and does so in so arcane a manner that most requests are responded to with guesswork. Alas.
If you are in Canada and in need of a phone listing ASK411 will give you your desired listing free until JANUARY 31! After the said date, charges will only go up to 50 cents per text message. That is very cheap compared to other directory assistance providers. The best thing about it is you dont need to call, instead just text the listing along with the city and state/province to 275411 and not even knowing it, you’ll see a reply to your inquiry. No need for a pen and a paper, you can always check it in your inbox! Try it now and see the difference!
Just got charged $1.49 twice for two 800=GOOG 411 calls by Verizon wireless. They said they never hard of it.
I don’t see how or why. All you’re doing is calling a toll-free, 1-800 number. I’d challenge Verizon on those charges.