photo credit: Billa

Having moved to a metro area in an entirely different state, I have definitely had some challenges getting around. And, yes, I do love my GPS (we call her ‘Gabbie’) but on a handful of occasions she just doesn’t come through for me. I was reminded of some 411 services recently that I thought I would share with you.

1-800-FREE-411- I have tried to use 1-800-FREE-411 in the past but the automated system didn’t understand what I was saying. I don’t think my Long Island accent is that thick- is it? Free, but not very useful.

1-800-GOOG-411- This free service helps you to quickly connect with local businesses- and it is soooo easy to use. OK, at first glance it’s similar to most 411 services. You dial the number and tell the automated system what city and state you are looking for. But, wait, if you know the zip code you can actually type it into the phone. Then, you tell the system the business name or category and they will find matches for you. Once you make your selection, you will be connected- for free.

And if you use your cell phone, you can say the words “text message” and you will receive a text with the business info. They even take it a step further for phones that have internet capabilities. Just say “map it” and GOOG-411 will send you a map of the business. How’s that for cool and convenient? Especially when you are driving- not that you would ever dream of it, but it prevents you from having to grab a pen and paper to write down the number while you are driving.

Google SMS- I don’t recommend this while driving…If you are looking for a business, just send a text to GOOGL or 466453 (that’s it- just six numbers) with the business name, city and state and you will receive a matching address and phone number via text within seconds. And, most newer mobile phones will allow you to dial directly from a phone number in a text message. You can get information on movie times, weather, directions, glossary, currency conversion, and the list goes on…and it’s all for free. Ummm, except your carrier may charge you.

Check out the links to watch a demo or find more info about what they can do! Do you know of any more free, fast 411 services? I’d love to hear about them.

This entry was posted on Thursday, May 22nd, 2008 at 3:57 pm and is filed under On the go, Organize your Bytes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.