The explosion in the popularity of text messaging has given rise to any number of new applications that make use of the technology. Here are a few that consumers could make real use of:
- Verizon Wireless 411 Text ? Verizon Wireless subscribers who call 411 to find a telephone number are given the option of having the number they've requested texted to the cell phone. For 411 callers who can't reach a pen and paper to write down a listing (while driving, for example), this feature can be a real convenience.
- HopStop ? Use this service to get directions between two addresses using mass transit. Users can register their cell phone number at www.hopstop.com and then text their starting and ending address (or cross-street) to 47867. HopStop will then text back subway and/or bus directions. Currently, the service is only available in Boston, New York City, Washington, DC, San Francisco, and Chicago. Philadelphia, Atlanta, Maryland, New Jersey, and Long Island, NY service is expected soon.
- PayPal Mobile ? Forget the headaches of trying to remember who owes who for a restaurant tab. PayPal Mobile allows users to wire money from their credit card or checking account to any PayPal account. For example, the user would text ?Send $20 to [PayPal user's cell phone number].? PayPal Mobile then calls the senders cell phone and requests a PIN to ensure security. For more information or to sign up, click here.
Remember that the use of these texting applications and others like them is likely to incur text messaging charges from your cell phone provider, so be sure you know how much these will cost before going overboard on their use.
Source: Telecommunications Research and Action Center. http://www.trac.org
