Directory assistance is now available for callers in the United States, for free. Today, locating and calling businesses has never been easier.
Tired of paying expensive directory assistance phone call charges? By using one of the services listed below, callers no longer have to pay expensive directory assistance fees again.
With these simple-to-use and convenient directories, finding a phone number anywhere in America is just a phone call away.
The following companies share some similarities, including voice-activated directory assistance for businesses in the United States, usable from any phone, at no-cost to the user. One service provides a variety of other services while others include audible advertisements, which could be annoying to some users.
(It is important to note, when using a voice activated service, background noise may interfere with phone calls).
GOOG-411
Google’s GOOG-411 is simple, fast, straight-forward, totally free.
To use, dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any mobile phone or land-line phone
Once the number is dialed, users provide the location (city and state) and business information by speaking clearly into the phone.
For example, speak “Los Angeles, California, Movie Theaters” when prompted.
Once the information is obtained, Google provides three options to users:
Google will automatically connect the caller to the business at no cost
If the caller is using a mobile device which includes text messaging, Google will provide further details on the business by sending a text message to the caller. Simply say “text message”
For those with Internet capable mobile devices, Google will send a map of the area to the users cell phone by saying “Map It”
The service is currently available for businesses only in the United States. However, the service does appear to work in some areas of Canada.
Microsoft’s Live Search411, or 1-800-Call411 (800-225-5411), includes other information the other listed companies do not offer. Live Search411 includes traffic maps, driving directions, movie information, weather and travel information are now available on the phone. All of the information is completely free and does not include any type of advertising. 800-Call411 is available anywhere in the United States.
To begin, dial the 800 telephone number from any phone in the United States
Automatically knows user location.
Specify business or other services, which include weather, movies, travel and maps.
Weather—Includes current conditions and offers extended forecast for specific locations
Movies-Once the location is given, information includes new releases, movie ratings, show times, and includes ability to purchase tickets (surcharge fees apply)
Travel - Includes air, hotels and rental cars info
Traffic maps-Includes driving directions and traffic conditions sent to users by text messaging. Not available in all areas
800-FREE411 (800-373-3411) is unique as it offers free directory assistance for business, residential and government agencies. (The other agencies listed only offer information for businesses only).
After dialing 800-Free411, callers listen to a short audio advertisement
Directory assistance is available by phone and online
The company plans to expand its service internationally in the future
A new "Driving Directions" feature allows callers to retrieve directions via text message
Compatible with Skype
It is important to mention, depending on individual phone plans, some charges may apply when using these services.
This information is invaluable for those stuck along the side of the road in need of emergency roadside assistance or other emergency needs. Besides saving money, the services listed above provide ease of use, peace-of-mind, and convenience.
The copyright of the article Dial Directory Assistance for Free in Mobile Technology is owned by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. Permission to republish Dial Directory Assistance for Free in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
personally, i like to use 1-800-411-SAVE, talking to a machine is just
plain irritating sometimes. this free service has live operators that help
you out with business, residential and government listings. there's a short
audio ad, but i don't mind since i don't have to pay for the information.
Jun 25, 2008 10:27 AM
Paul Fullname :
Thanks for the article! I'd just like to add a couple things about
1-800-FREE411: We have a new "Driving Directions" feature that
allows you to get the directions to your listing texted to you immediately
after the call. Also, we're compatible with Skype, so you can even make
calls with us from your laptop.
Thanks, Paul
Sep 11, 2008 11:54 PM
Guest :
I prefer 1-800-411-SAVE! Most of these free directory assistance providers
offer automated machine and that's what I really hate. It makes me spend
more of my minutes talking to them. With 1-800-411-SAVE, not just that
their agents are human being, but they are also very nice and
accomodating.. Try it for free!
Sep 14, 2008 9:29 PM
Guest :
Why is it that 1-800411SAVE is not included in the list. That is what im
using. Well readers use 800411SAVE and i guarantee you that this is the
last DA provider that you will call in your life and its for FREE. IT
EXIST!!!
Sep 22, 2008 6:37 PM
Guest :
Anyone know of any other FREE Residential Directory Services besides
800-411-Save? While it is a very good service and it is FREE with a REAL
LIVE HUMAN to talk with, it was not successful in finding a person or
telephone number, for me anyway. Although I have heard of many success
stories about using that service, it is GREAT I am sure; but if anyone
knows of another approach to locating a person in the United States and
getting their phone number and possibly even the address and/or other
information about them such as age and full name or something like that,
please let me know. Thanks, Les lescot@sbcglobal.net