shawnw.orgfaith – technology – culture

Google has launched a free 411 service called Google Voice Local Search. Basically, you call (gasp!) 800 GOOG 411 (800 466 4411), and follow the voice prompts. Check it:

Google Voice Local Search is Google’s experimental service to make local-business search accessible over the phone.

To try this service, just dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any phone.

Using this service, you can:

• search for a local business by name or category.
  You can say “Giovanni’s Pizzeria” or just “pizza”.
• get connected to the business, free of charge.
• get the details by SMS if you’re using a mobile phone.
  Just say “text message”.

And it’s free. Google doesn’t charge you a thing for the call or for connecting you to the business. Regular phone charges may apply, based on your telephone service provider.

Note: Google Voice Local Search is still in its experimental stage. It may not be available at all times and may not work for all users. We’re fine-tuning the service to get better at recognizing your requests. It’s currently only available in English, in the US, for US business listings.

Next time you need to call Starbucks or Kroger, give this a shot, and let me know how it works for you. I’ve tried it a couple times, and while it seemed okay, I can’t say it was any better than 800 FREE 411.

google, 411, labs, shawnw, tech