Google Voice Local Search

[Gibb]

I wonder if the guys at Google sit around in board meetings and say "Ok, what industry should we take over this week?"

Google just unveiled a new service called Google Voice Local Search. It's basically a free alternative to dialing 411. You call the number, an computerized voice talks to you, and you tell him the city, state, and place you're going. Then you can say "text message" and the phone number of the location gets text messaged to your phone instantly. You can also stay on the line to be connected to the number.

http://labs.google.com/goog411/

As of right now it's 100% free to use as far as paying for the service, tho your phone carrier will charge for text messages and airtime, unless you have a text message plan already.

I just tried it and it worked perfectly for me.

[HSaabedra]

Don't forget airtime charges. I don't see Google taking over voice search when Microsoft already acquired TellMe Networks, the original developers of the 1800FREE411 service.

[Gibb]

Don't forget airtime charges. I don't see Google taking over voice search when Microsoft already acquired TellMe Networks, the original developers of the 1800FREE411 service.

Good point, I guess some people would see my 100% free and forget about airtime fees.

[tenshi_a]

They timed the release with the calendar date! Wow!

[HSaabedra]

Actually it was launched on Saturday, but I'll let you have that since I just realized the date. ^_^

[Buck]

So what's the advantage ? I prefer to talk to a human being, rather than a computerized voice. I hope this kind of services will not lead to job cuts, etc. :/

Some will tell me that we forum users don't even see each other in real life, but it's not the same..