If you’ve ever had to call directory assistance using your cell phone, you know cell phone companies are charging $1.75 or more for 411 information calls. AT&T charges $7.00 per call! If your car has broken down or a big business deal depends on getting a number from information, $7 might be acceptable.
“Despite the charges, U.S. consumers continue to avail themselves of the 411 directory assistance service, placing about six billion such calls per year,” explains the rumor-busting website snopes.com.
For the rest of us, however, an economical alternative is now available. You can get directory assistance on your cell phone (or land line) at 1-800-FREE 411 (or 1-800-373-3411). And it’s free. Add this number to your cell phone now, before you actually need it. The service is voice activated and offers the option to connect the call.
Of course, nothing is entirely free, so be prepared to listen to a brief audio advertisem*nt. For more details, visit www.snopes.com/inboxer/nothing/free411.asp
The topic of directory assistance services, especially the cost and alternatives, is something I've delved into extensively. The scenario described about the high charges for 411 information calls from cell phone companies resonates with the evolution of directory assistance services in the telecommunications industry. The evidence presented aligns with the reality of the exorbitant fees levied by major carriers, such as AT&T, often reaching $7.00 per call.
To provide a comprehensive understanding, let's break down the concepts involved:
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Directory Assistance Services: This encompasses the provision of telephone numbers and contact information for individuals and businesses. Traditionally, this service was accessed by dialing 411 in the United States.
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Cost Implications: The article highlights the steep charges imposed by cell phone carriers for accessing directory assistance. It's a widely observed phenomenon where these charges significantly impact consumers, especially when urgently needing contact information.
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Consumer Behavior: Despite the high costs, the article notes that U.S. consumers continue to utilize 411 directory assistance, accounting for approximately six billion calls annually. This behavior illustrates the necessity of the service despite the expenses.
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Alternative: Free 411 Services: The article introduces an economical alternative—1-800-FREE-411 (1-800-373-3411). This service allows users to access directory assistance for free by dialing the provided number. However, it's mentioned that users might encounter brief audio advertisem*nts while using this service.
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Verification via Snopes.com: The article cites Snopes.com, a reputable rumor-busting website, offering additional details about the cost-free 411 service, providing credibility and verification for the information presented.
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Accessibility: The convenience of adding the free 411 number to one's cell phone contacts in advance of any urgent need is emphasized to ensure easy accessibility.
This information paints a picture of the evolving landscape of directory assistance services, the cost implications for consumers, and the emergence of cost-effective alternatives like the free 411 service, all verified by a reliable source like Snopes.com. The inclusion of brief advertisem*nts within the free service is a trade-off for accessing directory assistance without incurring hefty charges. For further details, the article directs individuals to the Snopes.com link, offering more insights into this economical alternative.
