Microsoft Offers Free 411 Assistance

Paying $1.50 for directory assistance is on the verge of extinction thanks to the delivery of free directory services run by the world’s computing elite.Microsoft joins Google and AT&T by providing Live Search 411, a mobile directory service that puts the “White” and “Yellow Pages” at your fingertips. But wait, no fingertips needed - just an ear!

Developed in part because of the company’s acquisition of TellMe Networks - a service that 40 million people on the go use every month for information - the free directory service utilizes voice recognition prompts to ascertain info.

You can access the free service on any phone by dialing 1/800/CALL-411 (1/800/225-5411).

Just say the city and state and then the business name or type for a list of options. When you hear the one you want, the words “connect me” will patch you through.

Web-enabled phones can receive results via text message. This message can contain a link to a map of the business.

Microsoft hopes to give AOL-owned Moviefone a run for their money by reeling out movie listings too. But more importantly, they are clearly looking to keep pace with Google which successfully launched Goog 411 several months ago.

It remains to be seen how either Google or Microsoft will turn these ventures into profitable machines. I can almost hear the next Mr. Moviefone warming his vocal cords.