Google re-invents 411

Now that so-called international terrorism has given new meaning to “911″, it’s only fitting that someone should also re-invent “411″.

Well, leave it to Google. That is exactly what they have done. Let’s hope this is not a bad omen for April 11.

Just dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411).

I did not get put on hold — yippie! Instead, a friendly-sounding voice asked me for city and state. This is a voice-recognition system, so you just talk, although you can also key in the zip code instead.

Next the voice asks me “business name or type of service?”. You simply respond with the name of the business (if you know it) or something like “pizza delivery”.

If there is more than one choice, you say the number of the item you want after you hear the choices.

Then once you have selected a business, you simply say “connect” and your call will be placed free of charge (yes, really) to that business.

You can also say “details” for more information, “end call”, “text” to get the details texted to you, or “map” to see a map (on appropriate devices only).

Local resident Andy Smith brought this to our attention. See the Google promo video below for a walk-through of the new 411 service.

CVNews related links:

• 1-800-GOOG-411: Find and connect with local businesses for free from your phone

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