How fun is Google 411?!
Apparently the voice researchers at Google have come up with a fabulous new free service. Tired of seeing those 411 calls on your cell phone and landline every month? I know I am! Google is changing that old school way of thinking. Why should the customer pay for the privilege of gaining a business’s information? (This works for business listings only, not residential).
Google’s already got all the information and it’s fantastic way to encourage their users to continue using Google on a regular basis. It’s a new FREE (yes, I said FREE!) 411 service. And I’m happy to report that it’s also fast and very easy to use.
I just gave it a try and was pleasantly surprised to see it works in Canada too! Sadly it’s only available in English at this time, but who knows what will happen in the future.
The number to dial is:
1-800-466-4411 or 1-800-GOOG-411
You don’t need a computer or an Internet connection. Google 411 is voice-activated, so you can access it from any phone (mobile or land line), in any location, at any time.
How it works:
- Say where.
- Say what you’re looking for.
- Then Google will connect you with the business you chosen via Text or Google Maps (if your phone has internet access).
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” to get the information sent to you.
Keep in mind, though, that your telephone company may bill you for other charges for making a phone call or receiving an SMS (Short Message Service). GOOG-411 can be used from any personal or work phone, whether it is a fixed/landline phone, mobile phone or VoIP phone. However, calls from pay phones are currently not supported.
Own a business and want to make sure you’re accessible in Google 411?
Easy as pie. Our company October 17 Media often provides submission to your Google maps interface as part of a standard linking and SEO strategy. If you don’t work with us, you can set it up yourself by ensuring you’re listed with Google Maps. Sadly, Google isn’t currently providing advertising opportunities for Google 411 but I’m sure we’ll see that change in the future.
Wanna watch the quirky video Google put out to promote it?