The 411 on Free 411 Options

Fed up with fees? A new bevy of free software-based directories could make you hang up on Ma Bell's operators for good

Who isn't tired of paying $2 a pop—or more—for a simple number look-up over the phone? Google (GOOG) and other info providers feel your fatigue. Here's an annotated list of alternatives to the traditional paid-for 411. Just remember: You generally get what you pay for, and these services aren't always speedy. Did we leave any off? Drop us a note in the reader comments section.

GOOG 411

1-800 GOOG 411
labs.google.com/goog411
A nimble product, even in beta mode. Google Voice Local Search uses voice-recognition software that is generally up to the task of finding your information, and the service is quick. You can also get your info in a text message. One caveat: Business categories still seem to have some kinks: Goog 411's computers had better luck finding movie theaters than wine shops in our test drive. That's why the company says Google is still in its "experimental stage" and may not work for all callers.

Tellme

1-800-555-TELL
www.tellme.com
Tellme is the slickest of the new offerings, essentially offering an audio version of an online portal, and possibly one reason Microsoft (MSFT) was keen to buy the company. The voice-recognition software worked flawlessly, but Tellme doesn't connect you to caller-requested search results. (It will for businesses in its system.) Beyond business numbers, there's an array of choices: stock quotes, weather data, travel, top news stories, etc. The service incorporates jingle-style music, chimes, and soft jazz.

Jingle

1-800-FREE-411
www.free411.com
The Jingle software isn't nearly as sophisticated as Tellme's or Google's, and it seemed to have trouble hearing us, but you can get connected to a real person if you need personalized assistance. (Unfortunately, our operator also had some hearing difficulty as well.) Ultimately, we got our number. You also may get a brief blast of advertising: One of our testing calls came with a pitch for a free sample of Omega-3 fish oil.

AT&T

1-800-YellowPages
www.yellowpages.com
AT&T (T) is testing a Yellow Pages 411 service in three markets—Bakersfield, Calif.; Columbus, Ohio; and Oklahoma City—so we were unable to ring it up. The telecom currently has an online directory.